Technical feasibility studies for Langkawi WCO (waste cooking oil) derived-biodiesel

A study has been done to consider Malaysian WCO (waste cooking oil) generated in an eco-tourism island, Langkawi, Malaysia as an alternative feedstock for biodiesel production. This paper presents the results of the comprehensive technical feasibility study for production of biodiesel from WCO feedstock. The results have shown feasibility of recycling WCO into biodiesel that is compliant with international fuel standard ASTM D6751. The study has given an indication on the appropriate processing scheme to be developed for recycling WCO into biodiesel as a substitute fuel for diesel vehicles in Langkawi that would enable the promotion of alternative fuel in the energy mix for long term environment sustainability.

► Quantity assessment: Langkawi is capable to produce 200,000–400,000 kg of WCO (waste cooking oil) per annum. This amount is sufficient to support Langkawi diesel demand by 0.25–1.2%.
► Quality assessment: Approximately 78.5% of WCO collected has the potential to produce biodiesel with 80–85% yield.
► Biodiesel produced meets the ASTM D 6584 standards and qualify to be used for performance, emission, and physical and chemical properties tests.
► A 20% volumetric blend limit with diesel (B20) would meet all the parameters limit of ASTM D6751 standards and thus is the recommended blend for diesel substitute.