Jatropha(കടലാവണക്ക് ) is a family of plants that grows in Central America, Africa, the tropical countries of Asia and Australia. These plants are extremely hardy, can stand very dry and harsh weather condition and are known to be able to resist pests to a great extent. On the con side, this tree produces some toxic materials such as saponin, lectin, and phorbol. Recently, these plants are becoming objects of much interest and speculations around the world because they are claimed to be the best sources of biodiesel.
The jatropha seeds, commonly known as the physic nuts, contain up to 40% oil. The jatropha oil can be used directly as biofuel or can be converted into biodiesel for a more efficient performance. When raw or mixed jatropha oil is directly used in an automobile or even plane engines, there is some residue, which can be used as biomass in power plants to produce electricity.
The Indian Railways has started to use the oil (blended with diesel fuel in various ratios) from the Jatropha plant to power its diesel engines with great success. Currently the diesel locomotives that run from Thanjavur to Nagore section and Tiruchirapalli to Lalgudi, Dindigul and Karur sections run on a blend of Jatropha and diesel oil.
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