Transesterification of jatropha curcas oil to biodiesel by using short necked clam (orbicularia orbiculata) shell derived catalyst

Abstract

Investigation has been conducted to develop an environmental friendly and economically feasible process for biodiesel production. Natural short necked clam shell was utilized as calcium oxide (CaO) source for transesterification of non-edible Jatropha curcas oil to biodiesel. The powdered clam shell was calcined at 900°C for 3 h to transform calcium carbonate (CaCO3) in shell to active CaO catalyst. The effect of catalyst loading, methanol to oil molar ratio and reaction time on fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) yield was investigated. Under optimal condition, biodiesel yield achieved 93% within 6 h at 65°C. As a result, the catalytic activity of waste clam shell-derived catalyst is comparable to commercial CaO catalyzed reaction. Hence, it can be used as another renewable yet cost-effective catalyst source for biodiesel production.