Researchers in Oman produce biodiesel from date seeds

Muscat: A research team from the College of Science of Sultan Qaboos University has conducted experiments for the production of biodiesel and other secondary products.
The research team extracted oil from date seeds and transformed oil produced into diesel fuel and glycerol. The glycerol is then treated and transformed into secondary substance used to enhance the characteristics of diesel.
Dr. Lamya Al Haj from the College of Science at SQU stressed the significance of biofuel as it is a renewable source of energy and contributes to diversification of sources of income, creates job opportunities and reduces dependency on fossil fuels.
The waste resulting from date seeds after production of oil is transformed into environment-friendly substance which could be an alternative to plastic substances, she added.
The research team comprises Dr. Lamya Al Haj from the College of Science at SQU; Dr. A'ala Al Muhtasib from the College of Engineering and Dr. Faroq Jamil, Dr. Mervin. The researchers are Abdullah Al Balushi and Marya Al Kalbani, students Sharifa Al Maskari, Rehab Al Zaidi and Ruqaya Al Shahomi.
It is worth mentioning that biofuel is used in production of electricity and as liquefied biofuel it is used in engines.