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A safe ultrasonic-assisted transesterification method for vegetable oils using an alkaline catalyst is presented here. The method is rapid and efficient for preparing pure biodiesel products.
Utilizing vegetable oil as a sustainable feedstock, this study presents an innovative approach to ultrasonic-assisted transesterification for biodiesel synthesis. This alkaline-catalyzed procedure harnesses ultrasound as a potent energy input, facilitating the rapid conversion of extra virgin olive oil into biodiesel. In this demonstration, the reaction is run in an ultrasonic bath under ambient conditions for 15 min, requiring a 1:6 molar ratio of extra virgin olive oil to methanol and a minimum amount of KOH as the catalyst. The physiochemical properties of biodiesel are also reported. Emphasizing the remarkable advantages of ultrasonic-assisted transesterification, this method demonstrates notable reductions in reaction and separation times, achieving near-perfect purity (~100%), high yields, and negligible waste generation. Importantly, these benefits are achieved within a framework that prioritizes safety and environmental sustainability. These compelling findings underscore the effectiveness of this approach in converting vegetable oil into biodiesel, positioning it as a viable option for both research and practical applications.
Biodiesel, derived from common, plant-based oils and fats, emerges as a sustainable solution to mitigate reliance on petroleum1. This renewable substitute showcases reduced greenhouse gas emissions, notably carbon dioxide, while relying on sustainable resources. Furthermore, biodiesel presents distinct advantages over petroleum diesel, characterized by its sulfur-free composition, non-toxic nature, and biodegradability. As an alternative to conventional fossil fuels, biodiesel aligns with the United Nations' (UN's) Net Zero policy by reducing our dependence on non-renewable fossil fuels and mitigating the adverse effects of climate chan....
1. Oil source and preparation
In this demonstration, the transesterification reaction of extra virgin olive oil and methanol, catalyzed by KOH, produces biodiesel at room temperature in an ultrasonic bath (Figure 1)5. The starting materials in the centrifuge tube show the reactants are immiscible and divided into two layers as seen in Figure 2A. The upper layer is a mixture of methanol and KOH while the lower layer is composed of extra virgin olive oil. To promote hom.......
In this demonstration, an ultrasonic assisted method of base-catalyzed production of biodiesel is elucidated for optimal efficacy. For optimal results, the centrifuge tube should be placed inside a beaker filled with water and then the beaker should be placed within the ultrasonic bath. This immersed configuration guarantees thorough exposure of the reaction mixture to the ultrasonic treatment, maximizing its effectiveness. If desired, a centrifuge rack can also be used to replace the beaker inside the ultrasonic bath, w.......
The work was supported by Author YL's start-up fund and Pedagogy Enhancement Award (PEA) at California State University, Sacramento.
....Name | Company | Catalog Number | Comments |
Chloroform-d | Fisher Scientific | 865-49-6 | • Harmful if swallowed. • Causes skin irritation. • Causes serious eye irritation. • Toxic if inhaled. • Suspected of causing cancer. • Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child. • Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure |
Heated Ultrasonic Baths, Digital, Branson Ultrasonic | Branson | 89375-492 | |
Methanol | Fisher Scientific Company | 67-56-1 | Highly flammable liquid and vapor. Toxic if swallowed, in contact with skin or if inhaled. Causes damage to organs (Eyes). |
Potassium hydroxide | Fisher Scientific Company | 1310-58-3 | May be corrosive to metals. Harmful if swallowed. Causes severe skin burns and eye damage. Causes serious eye damage |
Sodium chloride | Sigma-Aldrich | 7647-14-5 | Not hazardous |
Vegetable oils | A commonly consumed food with a long history of safe use in pesticides. |
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