A novel and robust homogeneous supported catalyst for biodiesel production

• A homogeneous supported catalyst based on Zn(II) was prepared.
• The catalyst is able to promote esterification and transesterification of acidic vegetable oils.
• The catalyst can be easily recovered and recycled.

A homogeneous supported catalyst based on Zn(II) was prepared by anchoring complex [Zn(OAc)2(N,N′-chelate)] on silica, where N,N′-chelate is a suitably functionalised di-imine ligand. The complex was able to promote the esterification and transesterification of acidic vegetable oils at 160 °C within two hours. The catalyst could be also easily recovered and immediately re-cycled.