Experimental and Simulation Analysis to Predict the Optimum Biodiesel Yield from Two Different Feedstock Using Heterogenous Base Catalyst

Abstract

Abstract: Biodiesel can be easily used an alternative fuel. Using the Soxhlet apparatus, the oil waas extracted, and centrifuged to separate the oil. The physical characteristics of oil was determined. A number of >3 indicates an acid, while a value < 3 indicates a base. If the FFA content is >0.5, the substance is an acid, and if it’s less than 0.5, a base. Suitable solvent based on its physicochemical characteristics was selected. In this study two types of seeds were used. A mixed heterogeneous base catalyst containing CaO prepared from waste egg shells andcockle shells. The egg shells and cockle shells were dried in microwave oven for 24 hours at 120◦C and placed in Muffle furnace at 900 ◦C and mixed in 1:1 ratio. SEM, EDAX and FTIR were used to characterize the catalyst. The two feedstock used in this study was Solanum Torvum and Murraya Koenigii. Double Step Esterification was preferred. The oil was treatedwith the strong acid H2SO4 . Then oil along with methanol was treated with both acid and basecatalyst separately to give Fatty Acid Methyl Ester. Finally optimum condition was found for maximum yield of FAME, was obtained using RSM.