Characterization of biodiesel and bio-oil from Sterculia striata (chicha) oil

This work describes the mechanical and solvent extraction of Sterculia striata seed oil. It was determined that the seeds contain up to 41% in oil, which has an unusual composition. Indeed, up to 50% of the fatty acid contain cyclopropenoid ring. The oil was used as raw material to produce bio-oil and biodiesel and their physical–chemical properties were evaluated. Some of the studied physical–chemical properties of the S. striata biodiesel are in acceptable range for use as biodiesel in diesel engines, showing a promising economic exploitation of this raw material in semi-arid regions. It was also observed that the cyclopropenoid ring remains after transesterification and is decomposed during pyrolysis.

► We describe the mechanical and solvent extraction of Sterculia striata seed oil.
► Seeds contain up to 41% in oil and 50% of fatty acid contain cyclopropenoid ring.
► The oil was used as raw material to produce bio-oil and biodiesel.
► Physical–chemical properties were evaluated showing acceptable range for biodiesel.
► Cyclopropenoid ring remains after transesterification and is decomposed by pyrolysis.