TRANSFORMING WASTE INTO ENERGY: SUSTAINABLE BIODIESEL PRODUCTION FROM USED COOKING OIL FOR A GREENER FUTURE

Abstract

This study aims to produce high-quality biodiesel in a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable manner by utilizing agri-food waste, specifically used vegetable oils. The process involves transesterification, where a mixture of used vegetable oils, predominantly frying oils, reacts with methanol in the presence of potassium hydroxide (KOH) as a basic catalyst. By optimizing the operating conditions—such as a reaction temperature of 50°C, a reaction time of 60 minutes, an optimal methanol-to-oil mass ratio, and the catalyst concentration—we sought to maximize both biodiesel yield and quality. Various physicochemical analyses, including density, viscosity, color, flash point, water content, total sulfur, cetane number, acid value and iodine value confirmed that our biodiesel meets both American (ASTM D6751) and European (EN 14214) quality standards. Notably, the fuel exhibited excellent cetane numbers and low sulfur content, making it suitable for high-performance and cleaner combustion. These findings underscore the feasibility and effectiveness of our biodiesel production process, providing a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution for converting waste oils into high-quality biodiesel. This approach not only supports sustainable fuel production but also promotes waste valorization and the circular economy.