Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: http://hdl.handle.net/1959.13/935071

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Title
Base catalysed transesterification processes using magnesium and barium oxide composites
Author/Creator
Li, Jerry Pui Ho;  Stockenhuber, Michael
Institution
The University of Newcastle. Faculty of Engineering & Built Environment, School of Engineering
Description
Oil is a finite resource and there are concerns that it may peak in the near future. For this reason, it is important to investigate alternative fuel resources. Of these resources, biodiesel in particular will be examined. Biodiesel production processes requires the use of liquid bases to initiate the reaction, but they cannot be reused. By-product in the form of soap is usually seen when liquid bases are used, reducing the quality of the biodiesel. Steps are taken to remove both the base and unwanted products from the reaction mixture, but see a reduced biodiesel product and added expenditures. The steps can be avoided by using a stable solid catalyst. Our catalyst consists of a magnesium and barium oxide composite. For physical characterization, SEM, FT-IR and XRD was performed. Alkalinity characterization was performed with CO2-TPD. The catalyst was used in a biodiesel production analogue, with ethyl acetate and methanol at 60˚C and under inert atmosphere. Reaction samples were withdrawn periodically and analysed using gas chromatography. Leaching tests were performed to confirm the catalyst resistance to leaching. Results show the catalyst produced product conversions of 30% in the initial 6 hours, and increased to 88% at 24 hours. The catalyst also showed no signs of leaching. The success of the catalyst demonstrates potential for biodiesel production. Kinetic studies should be made in order to observe the optimal conditions the catalyst operates under. This can be followed up with reactions firstly with pure triglycerides, followed by reaction with vegetable oils.
Relation
Chemeca 2010: Engineering at the Edge. Proceedings of Chemeca 2010: Engineering at the Edge (Adelaide, S.A. 26-29 September, 2010)
Relation
http://www.chemeca2010.com/abstract/85.asp
Date
2010
Publisher
Engineers Australia
Keyword(s)
catalysts;  magnesium oxide;  metallic oxides--analysis;  transesterification
Resource Type
conference paper
Identifier
http://hdl.handle.net/1959.13/935071
Identifier
ISBN:9780858259713
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Subject
"Base catalysed transesterification processes using magnesium and barium oxide composites"
 
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