Abstract

Optimization and Production of Biodiesel using Calcium Oxide as a Heterogeneous Catalyst

Author(s): K. Muthu and T. Viruthagiri

In this study biodiesel was produced from palm oil using calcium oxide (CaO) as a heterogeneous catalyst. The waste chicken eggshell was applied as raw material for the preparation of heterogeneous catalyst in biodiesel production. Prior to use, the waste chicken eggshells were cleaned thoroughly with the running water and followed by distilled water and dried for 12 hr at 102°C, the calcium carbonate (CaCO3) content in the waste egg shell was converted into calcium oxide (CaO) by calcining at 900°C for 4 hr. The effect of experimental variables namely reaction temperature, reaction time, methanol to oil ratio, and amount of catalyst were investigated