Abstract
This study aimed to synthesized zeolites via a hydrothermal process in an alkaline medium using coal fly ashes as an alternative source of silicon. The zeolites were evaluated for their crystallinity, morphology, and surface area. The characterization of the sample revealed that the zeolite type sodalite was synthesized, and quartz and mullite were identified as by-products. The microstructure of the powders showed clusters with specific surface areas of approximately 10m2/g. The synthesized sodalite was used as a catalyst for transesterification of soy oil to obtain a maximum conversion of 95.5wt% at 65°C with a 4wt% catalyst concentration, a 12:1 methanol-to-oil molar ratio, and a reaction time of 2h. The mechanistic pathway for sodalite catalyzed transesterification and the possible formation of active sites was proposed.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
