Abstract: Esterification and transesterification are the most common methods of producing biodiesel. It is important to select an appropriate catalyst based on the properties of raw oil. In this paper the alternative catalysts used in biodiesel production，such as acid catalyst，alkali catalyst，lipase catalyst，ionic liquid and non-catalytic process are reviewed. The advantages and disadvantages of different catalysts are compared according to catalysis mechanism，and the prospect of future development in this field is presented.

摘要： 酯化及转酯化法是目前研究最多、最具优势的生物柴油制备方法，根据原料特性选择合适的催化剂是该法成功的重要保证。在简述生物柴油制备原理的基础上，重点综述了目前研究较多的各种酸催化剂、碱催化剂、脂肪酶催化剂、离子液体及无催化剂过程的优缺点，并对生物柴油催化剂的发展方向进行了展望。