Probing Wisconsin highbush cranberry (V. trilobum), dotted horsemint (M. punctata), and American hazelnut (C. americana) as potential biodiesel feedstocks

The need for biodiesel feedstocks growing on non-arable lands is widely recognized. We present results of the synthesis and characterization of new biodiesels we produced from oils of highbush cranberry, dotted horsemint, and American hazelnut growing in Northern Wisconsin. These biodiesels, particularly those derived from highbush cranberry, exhibited remarkably good low-temperature properties, a condition that is crucial for wider usage of any biodiesel in cold climates. We also present the results on determination of the oxidative stability of the above biodiesels and discuss the growing conditions and habitats of the related plants.

► Oils of several plants widely growing in Northern Wisconsin and elsewhere have been used to synthesize biodiesels.
► These biodiesels possess very good low-temperature properties.
► Their oxidative stability is relatively high.