Characterization of Syagrus romanzoffiana oil aiming at biodiesel production

• The S. romanzoffiana almonds presented high oil content, 52% (w/w).
• The oil extracted presents in average 71% saturated fatty acids.
• S. romanzoffiana oil presents high oxidative stability is a feature which favors its durability and storage.
• The quality parameters of biodiesel from S. romanzoffiana oil are within acceptable limits in the European Norms.
• S. romanzoffiana oil presents a possible viable alternative for the production of biodiesel.

Syagrus romanzoffiana is a palm species from the Arecaceae family, commonly known in Brazil as Jerivá. Its fruit is a drupe, global or oval with rigid endocarp that contains a high seed oil content, 52% (w/w) on a wet basis. This study analyzed Jerivá oil composition with regard to fatty acids and some physical–chemical properties related to its quality, aiming at using this oil as a raw material to produce biodiesel. The oil extracted is mainly composed of saturated fatty acids. The quality parameters of the Jerivá oil are in accordance with the European regulations, ASTM and Brazilian standards. Preliminary production tests revealed that the S. romanzoffiana oil is a viable alternative for the production of biodiesel.