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VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 (2025)
Green cao composite catalyst for biodiesel production: Impact of free fatty acids on stability
Authors
Ayu Jyostisya Yotirani AW
Abstract
This study investigates the impact of FFAs on the
stability and catalytic performance of a novel green calcium oxide (CaO)
composite catalyst derived from waste sources. The catalyst was synthesized via
a calcination method and characterized using XRD, SEM, and BET surface area
analysis. Its performance was evaluated in the transesterification of refined
soybean oil, with stability tested by introducing varying concentrations of
oleic acid (0-5 wt%) to simulate high-FFA feedstocks. Results indicate that the
composite catalyst maintains high activity (>90% conversion) at FFA levels
up to 2 wt%. However, beyond this threshold, a significant and steady decline
in conversion efficiency was observed, dropping to 65% at 5 wt% FFAs.
Characterization of the spent catalyst revealed that this deactivation is
primarily attributed to the neutralization of active basic sites through soap
formation and the adsorption of fatty acid molecules onto the catalyst surface.
The study concludes that while the green CaO composite catalyst demonstrates
robust performance for refined oils and feedstocks with low FFA content, its
application for high-FFA feedstocks requires pre-treatment or further catalyst
modification to enhance acid tolerance and ensure long-term stability.
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Pages:14-18
How to cite this article:
Ayu Jyostisya Yotirani AW "Green cao composite catalyst for biodiesel production: Impact of free fatty acids on stability". World Journal of Chemistry, Vol 1, Issue 1, 2025, Pages 14-18
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