Biodiesel Production through Electrolysis Using an Ionic Liquid, 1-Ethyl-3-Methylimidazolium Chloride as a Supporting Electrolyte

Electrolysis is a promising approach for biodiesel production. However, low electrical conductivity of a reaction mixture results in a low reaction rate. Thus, this study developed a novel catalyst-free electrolysis process using an ionic liquid as a supporting electrolyte for biodiesel production....

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:International journal of energy research 2023-03, Vol.2023, p.1-11
Main Authors: Aregawi, Beyene Hagos, Nguyen, Hoang Chinh, Fu, Chun-Chong, Ong, Hwai Chyuan, Barrow, Colin J., Su, Chia-Hung, Wu, Shao-Jung, Juan, Horng-Yi, Wang, Fu-Ming
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Alternative energy sources
Biodiesel fuels
Biofuels
Catalysts
Chlorides
Diesel
Electrical conductivity
Electrical resistivity
Electrolysis
Electrolytes
Energy resources
Ionic liquids
Liquids
Moisture content
Response surface methodology
Transesterification
Ultrasonic imaging
Variables
Variance analysis
Water content
Yields
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Summary:Electrolysis is a promising approach for biodiesel production. However, low electrical conductivity of a reaction mixture results in a low reaction rate. Thus, this study developed a novel catalyst-free electrolysis process using an ionic liquid as a supporting electrolyte for biodiesel production. Various ionic liquids were assessed, and 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([Emim]Cl) exhibited the highest electrical conductivity (4.59 mS/cm) and the best electrolytic performance for transesterification. Electrolysis in the presence of [Emim]Cl was subsequently optimized using response surface methodology to maximize biodiesel yield. A maximum biodiesel yield of 97.76% was obtained under the following optimal reaction conditions: electrolysis voltage, 19.42 V; [Emim]Cl amount, 4.43% (w/w); water content, 1.62% (w/w); methanol to oil molar ratio, 26.38 : 1; and reaction time, 1 h. Notably, [Emim]Cl could be efficiently reused for at least three cycles with a corresponding biodiesel yield of 94.81%. Moreover, the properties of the synthesized biodiesel complied with EN and ASTM standards. The findings of this study indicate that catalyst-free electrolysis using [Emim]Cl as a supporting electrolyte is an eco-friendly and efficient method for biodiesel production.
ISSN:0363-907X
1099-114X
DOI:10.1155/2023/4719589