Optimization of biodiesel produced from watermelon (Citrullus vulgaris) using batch-type production unit

摘要

In the present work the production of a biodiesel from watermelon seed oil (Citrullus vulgaris) by methanol-induced transesterification using an alkaline catalyst (potassium hydroxide, KOH) has been examined. The influence of the operating variables such as agitation speed, temperature, reaction time, alcohol amount, and catalyst concentration was determined experimentally and found to be 550 rpm agitation rate, 60 degrees C reaction temperature, 55 min reaction time, 20% of methanol, and 13 g of catalysts concentration for 2.5 liters of oil. The yield of biodiesel from the watermelon methyl ester (WME) under optimized conditions is found to be 91%. The properties of biodiesel are measured as per ASTM standards and compared with the base diesel.