Significance of Jatropha

Energy:
5.57 KJ/seed
16 KJ / AAA Battery

      The Jatropha Curcas is a small tree whose oil is proving to be a viable alternative fuel source.  Each Jatropha seed contains roughly 30-40% oil by weight.  Additionally, this small tree grows easily in arid conditions and deteriorated soil; it is relatively drought resistant, growing on just 300-1000mm rain/year.  The plant can live for as long as 50 years, reaching its maximum productivity in as little as five years.  Lastly, it can be raised by seeds or cuttings making it easy to create large-scale plantations.

      These factors cause the Jatropha plant to be a formidable source for alternative fuel.  Due to its possible profitability, the Jatropha plant is being considered either as a source of income as a cash crop for poverty stricken communities across the globe or as a way to have cost free electricity.  

Useful Links:

Jatropha World

The Jatropha Project of Mali, West Africa

The Jatropha System

UCSB Senior Jatropha Press Redesign

sources:
1. Azam, M. Mohibbe “Prospects and potential of fatty acid methyl esters of some non-traditional seed oils for use as biodiesel in India” Biomass & Bioenergy 29 (2005) 293-302
2.http://www.jatrophaworld.org