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Aloe Vera has biodiesel potential, reveals MSU study

Mon, 06/23/2008 - 23:46 — daniel

Aloe Vera has biodiesel potential, reveals MSU study - A two-year research by M S University botanists has concluded that Aloe Vera can also be used as a biofuel. So far the plant was known for its medicinal and cosmetic properties. An international patent has now been sought to establish the use of Aloe Vera seeds in making biodiesel, soaps and edible oils. The plant grows in only a few areas of Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.
Prof. Mammen Daniel and Padamnabh Nagar from MSU Botany department had come across Aloe Vera seeds in Kutch and Saurashtra areas two years ago. They also found that the plant germinates from the seeds. “The fact that Aloe Vera actually has seeds is known to very few,” said Prof Daniel.

“Even though Aloe Vera farming is done in the North Gujarat belt, this discovery will make it more economical, since the number of Aloe Vera seeds per Kilogram is 2,67,500. The seeds could be collected upon maturity and used for germination,” added Nagar.

Prof. Daniel said they found in their research that oil can be extracted from the seeds and used in the preparation of soap and biodiesel.

According to the experts, the Aloe Vera soaps that are sold in the market do not have Aloe Vera oil at all. They use a preparation of Aloe Vera gel that does not have cosmetic properties. Besides, Aloe Vera does not produce toxic elements like Jatropha, during biofuel production.

In their analysis, the researchers have found that 20 to 22 per cent oil can be extracted from the seeds. The oil thus produced has equivalent properties of sunflower edible oil. “The research paper claiming the discovery of Aloe Vera seed and its oil properties, has already been published in the Journal of Indian Patents around six months ago. No one has challenged it till now,” said Prof Daniel.

The International Aloe Vera Council, USA, has already acknowledged the utility of Aloe Vera seeds. But the International Patent body is yet to certify it, said Nagar.
Surce:expressindia.com [Propiedades y Usos de Aloe - Aloe Properties and Uses]

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