Biodiesel Production from Waste Frying Oils by Potassium Methoxide Supported on Activated Carbon Catalysts from Lignocellulosic Biomass

Abstract

Various carbon-rich solid catalysts are evaluated for the synthesis of biodiesel from waste frying oil. The study results showed that the use of activated carbon made of corn stalk could increase the biodiesel yield by 7%. The heterogeneous carbon-based catalysts made of lignocellulosic residues could successfully improve the quality of biodiesel properties. The results obtained revealed that the biodiesel properties, including relative density (852-900 kg·m-3) and kinematic viscosity (2.4-3.9 mm2·s-1), are in compliance with the standard limits of ASTM and the European Biodiesel Standard, suggesting that the biodiesel produced would be decent as a diesel fuel that potentially can minimize the serious damage of engine parts, and prolong the engine life.