Influence of production variables for biodiesel synthesis on yields and fuel properties, and optimization of production conditions

• Published in: Fuel (Guildford) 2013-01, Vol.103, p.963-969
• Main Authors: Abuhabaya, Abdullah, Fieldhouse, John, Brown, David
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Biodiesel; Energy; Energy. Thermal use of fuels; Engine performance; Engines and turbines; Equipments for energy generation and conversion: thermal, electrical, mechanical energy, etc; Exact sciences and technology; Exhaust gas emissions; Fuels; Vegetable oil
• ISSN: 0016-2361; 1873-7153
• DOI: 10.1016/j.fuel.2012.09.067

► The Fulpod was used for biodiesel production by using transesterification process. ► The fuel properties, such as kinematic viscosity and calorific value were measured. ► The optimal conditions for the yield were found to be at M/O molar ratio of 6:1. ► NaOH catalyst concentration of 1%, reaction temperature 65°C. ► Rate of mixing 300rpm and a reaction time of 70min. This study presents an experimental investigation into the effects of using bio-diesel on diesel engine performance and its emissions. The bio-diesel fuels were produced from vegetable oils using the transesterification process with low molecular weight alcohols and sodium hydroxide then tested on a steady state engine test rig using a Euro 4 four cylinder Compression Ignition (CI) engine. Production optimization was achieved by changing the variables which included methanol/oil molar ratio, NaOH catalyst concentration, reaction time, reaction temperature, and rate of mixing to maximize bio-diesel yield. The technique used was the response surface methodology. In addition, a second-order model was developed to predict the bio-diesel yield if the production criteria is known. The model was validated using additional experimental testing.