Firm develops process to convert used cooking oil

Mizusawa Industrial Chemicals Ltd. has developed a way to make biodiesel from waste produced during the cooking oil-refining process. The subsidiary of Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. aims to sell the fuel for about ¥60 (US$0.50) a liter as early as next fiscal year. During the refining process for such materials as engine oil, cooking oil and margarine, activated earth is used as an absorbent to remove unwanted colors and impurities. Under the new technology, biodiesel is produced through a reaction that occurs when used activated earth, lipase, kerosene and methanol are mixed in a tank at room temperature and then removed of such impurities as white clay and other substances. Mizusawa developed the technology in cooperation with Shizuoka University and New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization. About 50,000-60,000 tons of used activated earth is produced each year and is used mainly as a raw material for cement or compost. (April 4, 2007)