Heterogeneous Catalyst Derived from Waste Shells for Biodiesel Production

摘要

The catalysts derived from waste shells were employed to produce biodiesel from Jatropha curcas oil. The catalysts were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared, and powder X-ray diffraction studies. Under the best reaction conditions (temperature 65 degrees C, methanol/oil molar ratio 9: 1, reaction time 3 h, and catalyst loading 3 wt% of oil), a high biodiesel yield of more than 99.0% was obtained. After ultrasonic mixing, the time for reaction completion could be shortened. After reuse for seven times, about 75% of the fatty acid methyl esters yield could be obtained. The activity of the catalysts could be revived absolutely after recalcination.