Biodiesel from Jatropha curcas oil using Zn for esterification step and solar radiation as energy source

► Biodiesel produced from Mexican Jatropha curcas oil by a two step catalyzed process. ► The free fatty acids were esterified with methanol, catalyzed by Zn filings. ► The process brings biodiesel production cost down due to the use of a solar heater. ► The process brings biodiesel production cost down due to the use of Zn filings.