Optimization and kinetic studies on biodiesel production from underutilized Ceiba Pentandra oil

This present work investigates the production of biodiesel from non-edible Ceiba Pentandra oil. The process was catalyzed by two-step acid base transesterification. Reaction parameters such as catalyst concentration, methanol to oil molar ratio, reaction temperature and time are studied. The conversion of biodiesel was found to be 99.5% under the optimized conditions of 1.0 wt.% KOH and 6:1 methanol oil molar ratio at 65 °C for a reaction time of 45 min. The kinetic study is carried out in various temperatures. The conversion of triglycerides into methyl esters obeys the first-order mechanism. The reaction rate constants and activation energies were determined. The physical and chemical characteristics of C. Pentandra oil and biodiesel were determined as per standard method. The fuel properties complied with the limits prescribed in the ASTM D6751standards.