Biodiesel production from refined palm oil through transesterification: effect in a pilot thermal plant

Abstract

This article presents the biodiesel production process from refined palm oil (RPO) through transesterification with ethanol and investigates its impact on a pilot thermal plant, encompassing both physical and environmental characterizations. The study adheres to the ASTM D 6751 standard, which delineates specifications for non-fossil origin fuels. The results indicate that biodiesel derived from RPO, when mixed with diesel in various proportions, exhibits significant potential, as its properties align with quality standards, particularly concerning power generation and gas emissions in the pilot thermal plant at ECCI University.