The effect of NaOH catalyst concentration and extraction time on the yield and properties of Citrullus vulgaris seed oil as a potential biodiesel feed stock

Gas chromatography was used to identify the methyl ester groups present in the biodiesel and the results revealed both concentration and time-dependent increase in oil yield. The physicochemical properties of the watermelon seed oil such as flash point (141.3 ± 0.4-143.4 ± 0.2), density (0.86 ± 0.04-0.91 ± 0.01 g/cm3), kinematic viscosity (30.50 ± 0.1-31.20 ± 0.04 mm2/s) and acid value (mg KOH/g) are similar to conventional vegetable oils. This work therefore, highlights the potential utility of water melon seeds for biodiesel production.