Optimization of process parameters of biodiesel production from different kinds of feedstock

An experimental study has been carried out to produce biodiesel from different kinds of feedstock. Operating parameters have been optimized with respect to percentage yield of production and viscosity. The most common method for production of biodiesel is transesterification. Palm, karanja, mahua, linseed and castor oil are among the few of the non-edible oils. Along with this waste cooking oil can also be considered as non-edible oil as it is mostly thrown away. The process of transesterification depends on various factors like reaction temperature, stirring rate, molar ratio, amount of catalyst and reaction time. Depending upon the acid value, the number of steps of transesterification was determined. If free fatty acid is greater than 2.5% then two step transesterificaton is carried out. Karanja and mahua oil undergo two-step process because of high FFA content. The main objective of the study was to optimize the reaction parameters for production of biodiesel from different kinds of oil based on kinematic viscosity and percentage of yield obtained. (C) 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.