Effect of storage parameters on stability of Jatropha-derived biodiesel

Jatropha curcas L. seeds as a raw material for biodiesel production is a rapidly growing interest over the world because of its high oil content, ecological adaptability, and excellent fuel properties. Though there is an increase in productivity of biodiesel, showing solution for future energy insecurity, there still remains some concern for commercialization due to its susceptibility to degradation during long storage. The aim of this paper is to investigate the effect of temperature and ambient condition on Jatropha biodiesel storage. An experiment was conducted for a period of 12 months, where Jatropha biodiesel stored in three groups at different temperatures (4°C, 25°C, and 35°C) and environmental conditions (exposed in dark, light, and air). At regular intervals, the samples were taken out to analyze acid value, density, kinematic viscosity, and thermogravimetric profile to monitor the quality of biodiesel. Analysis showed that acid value, density, kinematic viscosity, and the onset temperature of volatilization and distillation increases with the increase in storage time of biodiesel samples. However, Jatropha biodiesel stored at 35°C, in contact with ambient air and light showed highest degradation compared to those which were stored at 25°C and 4°C. Among all the parameters studied, high temperature and air exposure are the two most potent parameters which accelerate the degradation process. Along with that, light exposure had mild but significant effect on Jatropha biodiesel degradation over a long storage period.