Title of article :
Optimization of Biodiesel Production from Castor Oil Using a Microwave Via Response Surface Methodology (RSM)
Author/Authors :
Kord, Mohammad Faculty of Chemical Engineering - Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran , Sadrameli, Mojtaba Faculty of Chemical Engineering - Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran , Ghobadian, Barat Faculty of Agricultural Engineering - Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran
Abstract :
The purpose of this research work was to investigate the optimum operating conditions for biodiesel
production from castor oil using a microwave. The Box–Behnken design of experiment was carried out
using the Design Expert 7. A Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used to analyze the influence
of the process variables (molar ratio of methanol to castor oil, catalyst concentration, reaction time, and
microwave power) on the biodiesel yield. Optimizing biodiesel production reaction based on the yield
of reaction by means of response surface method showed that 1.44 wt.% of catalyst concentration,
7.12:1 molar ratio of alcohol to oil, microwave power of 500 W and 120 seconds of reaction time
produces the best results for maximizing the conversion percent. Finally, Biodiesel samples were
analyzed using Gas Chromatography (GC) method for determination of fatty acid methyl ester yield.
The optimum obtained yield of reaction was 92.15% with above operating conditions and the reaction
temperature was 58 oC.
Keywords :
Biodiesel , Castor Oil , Microwave , Optimization , Response Surface Methodology
Journal title :
Astroparticle Physics
