Biodiesel synthesis over biochar-based catalyst from biomass waste pomelo peel

In the present study, a novel solid carbon catalyst derived from pyrolytic pomelo peel was prepared for biodiesel synthesis. The composition, structure and texture of prepared catalysts were examined by X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS), N2 adsorption/desorption and the Hammett indicator method. The characterization results indicated that the surface area and pore volume of the biochar were increased significantly by chemical activation treatment with KOH. The best-performing catalyst was that loaded with 25 wt.% K2CO3 on the prepared biochar and calcined at 600 °C, due to it resulting in the highest conversion of the oil to FAME at 65 °C, reaction time of 2.5 h, 8:1 methanol/oil molar ratio and a catalyst amount of 6 wt.%. This extraordinary activity was identified owing to the strongest basic sites. Besides, after reusing for 8 cycles, the catalyst could exhibit a rather high biodiesel yield (above 82%). The deactivation of catalyst was mainly owing to K+ ions leaching to the product. These results indicated that the pomelo peel biochar supported catalyst demonstrated promise for biodiesel synthesis.