Effect of zeolite catalyst concentration on bio-fuel characteristics of corncobs (Zea mays l.) produced by pyro-catalytic method

Abstract

One alternative energy source that can be renewed is the conversion of biomass into bio-fuel. This study aims to produce bio-fuel from corn cobs and determine effect of catalyst concentration on physical and chemical properties. The pyro-catalytic process was carried out at 400? with 5%, 6% and 7% catalyst variations. Bio-fuel physical ssscharacterization tests include density, viscosity, and calorific value, while the analysis of hydrocarbon compound content uses GC-MS instrumentation. The results showed optimum biofuel volume was obtained at 7% catalyst variation that is 232 ml, while for physical and chemical characteristics the best results were obtained at 6% catalyst percentage with a density of 0.9636 gr/ml, viscosity 28.59 cP, and the calorific value is 10,350 kcal/kg. GC-MS analysis showed the content of Phenol, Furfural, acetic acid, Benzene, and Toluene compounds with a fuel percentage of 56.13% on a 6% catalyst. Based on the overall analysis that has been done shows that bio-fuel can be used as a substitute material for diesel or alternative energy substitute for conventional fuel.