The research group conducting the experiment on the four-cycle engines working on biodiesel produced from coconut entered into negotiations over its commercial production.
The experiment was carried out by the Biotechnology Research Institute and the College of Engineering and Technology situated in Kochi. According to the scientists, when one litre of the extracted fuel has been used, a mileage of TATA ACE automobile which was taken as an experimental model has increased from 16 to 22, 5 kilometres.
Sir Mohan Kumar, the head of the team, declared that in the issue of the research, the mileage of an experimental automobile reached 20000 kilometres, showing that it is possible to use coconut oil as biofuel. The estimated cost of this product is 40 rupees per litre.
Considering the existing level of technological development, about 10000 coconuts are necessary in order to produce 760 litres of fuel. It is worth mentioning that during the processing there appears a number of side-products, namely 5 tonnes of coconut husk, 2, 5 tonnes of coconut shell, 1250 litres of coconut water, 1, 2 tonnes of oil cake and about 70 litres of glycerin. Each of these products can be used thereafter, which makes it possible to set a competitive price for fuel in itself.
T. K. Hosse, the head of the Coconut Growers Association, declared that he has thoroughly examined the results of this research. And, in spite of the absence of the financial support for the project, the Association will do its best to complete the project with success.
Presently sir Mohan Kumar submitted his application for obtaining the patent in the USA and opened negotiations with the minister over the Renewable Energy Sources and over the possibility of the commercial production of biofuel.
