A novel hybrid catalyst for the esterification of high FFA in Jatropha oil for biodiesel production

作者：Mushtaq M; Tan I M; Sagir M^*; Tahir M Suleman; Pervaiz M

来源：Grasas y Aceites, 2016, 67(3): e150.

DOI：10.3989/gya.0216161

• Biodiesel
• Esterification
• Free Fatty Acids
• Heterogeneous catalysts
• Jatropha oil

The synthesis and application of a hybrid catalyst for the esterification of free fatty acids (FFA) in Jatropha oil is reported. Three catalysts, namely silica sulfuric acid, silica supported boron trifluoride and a combination of the two in the weight ratio of 1:1, the hybrid catalyst, were investigated. Jatropha oil samples with a wide range of FFA values i.e. 6.64 to 45.64% were prepared and utilized for the experimental work. This study revealed that silica sulfuric acid and silica supported boron trifluoride were not very effective when used independently. However, a strong synergistic effect was noted in the catalytic activity of the hybrid catalyst which reduced the FFA value from 45.64 to 0.903% with a conversion efficiency of 98%. Reusability of the catalyst was also tested and the results were promising in up to three cycles of use when used with lower amounts of FFA (6.64%) in the oil. Under the influence of the catalyst, the reaction was found to follow first order kinetics. Activation energy was calculated to be 45.42 KJ.mol(-1) for 2 wt.% of hybrid catalyst. The products were analyzed by FT-IR and NMR spectroscopic techniques and the results are reported.

• 出版日期2016-9