Synthesis of biodiesel by transesterification or how to make your own diester
In this section:
1. Overview
2. Chemical equation of the transesterification reaction
3. Biodiesel synthesis protocol in the laboratory
4. Determination of the physical characteristics of synthesized biodiesel
1. Overview
Transesterification is the classic biodiesel production technique.
This is a process in which vegetable oils, animal fats or oils based on microalgae are mixed cold with an alcohol (ethanol or methanol) in the presence of a catalyst (sodium or potassium hydroxide) .
2. Chemical equation of the transesterification reaction
The transformation of oils or fats into ethyl or methyl esters reduces the molecular weight to one third of that of the oil, reduces the viscosity by a factor of eight, reduces the density and increases the volatility.
The physical properties of the ethyl and methyl esters obtained during the transesterification reaction are then close to those of diesel of petroleum origin.
Learn more, ask your questions or exchange your experiences: recipe to make his biodiesel