Optimization of Transesterification Parameters in Ricinus Communis L. (Castor) Seed Oil for Biodiesel Production: Reaction Temperature based at 70°C

Abstract

The feasibility of castor seed as feedstock for optimum biodiesel production was studied. Castor oil has been a source of methyl esters with almost 90% of its fatty acid composition as ricinoleic acid. The castor oil was extracted via methanol as solvent. It was subjected to a two-step transesterification process: esterification with H2SO4 followed by NaOH-catalyzed methanolysis. The reaction times of 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 hours were each subjected to the methoxide (NaOHCH3OH) concentrations of 0.6, 0.7 and 0.8M. The transesterification process proceeded with the reaction temperature controlled at 70°C. The optimum parameters at 70°C were identified at 0.7 M NaOH-CH3 and 1.0 hour based on the maximum obtained yield of 63.29% Castor Methyl Ester (CasME). The CasME was subjected to Gas Chromatography / Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis for its fatty acid composition. The fuel characterization analysis conducted indicated acceptable results with respect to kinematic viscosity of 3.60 and 3.82 for B5 and B10 blends, respectively. Other properties of B10 were also determined from its acceptable value of kinematic viscosity and provided customary results based on the set values of Philippine National Standards (PNS).