TITLE:
Experimental Investigation and Process Optimization of Biodiesel Production from Kusum Oil Using Taguchi Method
AUTHORS:
Rabiranjan Murmu, Harekrushna Sutar, Sangram Patra
KEYWORDS:
Kusum Oil, Biodiesel, Esterification, Transesterification, Taguchi Technique, Analysis of Variance
JOURNAL NAME:
Advances in Chemical Engineering and Science,
Vol.7 No.4,
October
31,
2017
ABSTRACT:
The paper focuses on biodiesel production from kusum oil using esterification
reaction followed by transesterification reaction in an in-house batch reactor
setup. The effects of methanol to oil ratio (M/O), catalyst amount (H2SO4 and
methodoxide) and reaction temperature on acid value and fatty acid methyl
esters (FAME) is studied. Product has been analysed using FTIR spectroscopy
technique for confirmation of ester group in biodiesel. Experimental data was
optimized by Taguchi analysis to conclude the optimum variable affecting the
response. In both processes M/O ratio has the significant effect for biodiesel
production. The obtained biodiesel properties are close to commercial diesel
fuel and may be rated as an alternative to conventional diesel. The biodiesel
production will enhance the maximum utilisation of forestry or agricultural
products.