2024/07/31 by Osagiede, C. A., Aisien, F. A.
#Biochar Heterogeneous catalyst #Biodiesel #Calcined eggshell #Optimization #Response surface methodology
paper · doi:10.60787/tnamp.v20.384
In spite of the numerous advantages associated with use of bio-based heterogeneous catalysts in production of biodiesel, leaching of active sites has remained one of its drawbacks that limits its commercialization. In this study, biochar produced from carbonization of rubber seed shells (RSS) was used as support for synthesis of a low-cost catalyst. The catalyst was synthesized by impregnating the biochar with calcined eggshells. The performance of the catalyst was assessed by conducting transesterification reactions using waste cooking oil (WCO) as feedstock. The transesterification process variables were studied and optimized using response surface methodology (RSM). Results obtained showed that the catalyst was effective in catalyzing the transesterification of WCO. The optimum reaction conditions were: methanol-to-oil molar ratio of 15.8:1, catalyst concentration of 4.0 wt.%, reaction temperature of 61.7 oC, and reaction time of 3.9 h, resulting in biodiesel yield of 93.1 %. Reusability assessment demonstrated catalyst stability to leaching, providing biodiesel yield of 80.1% after the fifth cycle.