AFAI launches Jatropha-based biofuel production trials

Dec 13, 2013 - Alternative Fuels Americas Inc (PINK:AFAI) said Wednesday it had started trial production tests of biodiesel made from Jatropha, aiming to verify its processes and procedures.

The trial production will be carried out in three stages, the first of which is scheduled to start immediately. Feedstock for that phase will come from AFAI’s plantation in Tempate, Costa Rica. The output will be used for testing and marketing activities.

"These 3 phases of trials will allow us to pinpoint issues, make the appropriate adjustments, and finalize processes that will ensure the sustainable and profitable production of biodiesel,” said CEO Craig Frank.

Jatropha curcas is a non-edible shrub that is native to Central America. Its seeds contain high amounts of oil that can be refined using existing technology to produce diesel fuel, jet fuel and speciality chemicals. It can be effectively grown on marginal lands that are considered undesirable for other crops.

AFAI’s business module is focused on the seed-to-pump vertically integrated biodiesel production. It also develops ground oil fields in Central America.

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