Process parameter optimization of low temperature transesterification of algae-Jatropha Curcas oil blend

Biodiesel, as a substitute for diesel has been getting the attention of researchers/scientists of all over the world. The R & D has indicated that up to B20, there is no need of modification and little work is available related to suitability and sustainability of biodiesel production from Jatropha and algae as non-edible oil sources. The objective of the present study was to optimize the process parameters for transesterification of low free fatty acid (FFA) Jatropha and algae oil blend. A low temperature transesterification process was selected to make the transesterification process more energy efficient. A model was developed to correlate the biodiesel yield with process parameters viz methanol/oil volumetric ratio, Catalyst concentration and reaction time. A biodiesel yield of 81.98% was achieved with methanol/oil volumetric ratio (3:5) using KOH as catalyst (0.9% w/w) in 180 min time at 50 °C temperature. It was observed that catalyst concentration, reaction time and methanol/oil volumetric ratio had a significant effect on blend yield. It is found out that this model can be used in the industry to improve the efficiency of biodiesel production from blend of Jatropha and algae oil thereby, saving time and cost of the process in optimizing the process parameters.