Optimization of Biodiesel Production from Palm Kernel Oil Using Heterogeneous Catalyst: Physicochemical Characterization and Process Parameter Effects
Onyia, T. M.1, Agu, P. C.2, Emmanuel, C. E.3, Onyia, M. C.4
1Onyia, T. M., Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Nigeria.
2Agu, P. C., Department of Chemical Engineering, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Nigeria.
3Emmanuel, C. E., Department of Chemical Engineering, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Nigeria.
4Onyia, M. C., Department of Chemical Engineering, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Nigeria.
Manuscript received on 07 June 2024 | Revised Manuscript received on 14 June 2024 | Manuscript Accepted on 15 June 2024 | Manuscript published on 30 June 2024 | PP: 6-14 | Volume-12 Issue-6, June 2024 | Retrieval Number: 100.1/ijisme.G132012070724 | DOI: 10.35940/ijisme.G1320.12060624
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© The Authors. Blue Eyes Intelligence Engineering and Sciences Publication (BEIESP). This is an open access article under the CC-BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)
Abstract: This study investigated the production of biodiesel from palm kernel oil using heterogeneous catalyst. It involved characterization of the oil and production of biodiesel using palm kernel oil. Physicochemical properties of density, saponification, acid, free fatty acid, iodine and peroxide of the oil were determined. Biodiesel was produced by transesterification process using MgO as heterogeneous catalyst. Effects of process variables on biodiesel yield were evaluated, and the yield was optimized using response surface methodology (RSM). Properties of the biodiesel (specific gravity, kinematic viscosity, acid, flash point, pour point, cloud point, calorific value, moisture content and refractive index) were determined. Analysis of the results showed that palm kernel oil possesses physio-chemical properties suitable for biodiesel production. Moderate free fatty acid of 3.23 % oleic acid and saponification value 194.1 mg/g were obtained. Temperature, methanol/oil ratio, catalyst concentration and time influenced the biodiesel yield. Quadratic model adequately described the relationship between the biodiesel yield and the considered factors. Optimum biodiesel yield from palm kernel oil was recorded as 93.08% at temperature of 55oC, methanol/oil ratio of 5, catalyst concentration of 0.7 wt.% and time of 50 minutes. Specific gravity, kinematic viscosity, acid, flash point, pour point, cloud point, calorific value, moisture content, and refractive index values of the biodiesel are within the specified international standards.
Keywords: Biodiesel, Characterization, Heterogeneous Catalyst, Palm kernel oil and Transesterification
Scope of the Article: Composite Materials