SYNTHESIS OF BIODIESEL FROM NEEM SEED

ABSTRACT The world is currently challenged with global warming and environmental pollution. The major sources of greenhouse gas emissions are fossil fuels. Therefore, it is necessary to find alternative energy sources that are renewable, economically feasible and friendly to the environment. In addition, the depletion in petroleum worldwide has also stimulated the search for alternative sources. Biodiesel holds great potential as an alternative fuel. Characterized by the aforementioned properties, it has become the focus of many investigations with respect to the greenhouse gas emission and the environmental crisis. This work investigated the optimization of biodiesel production from neem seed (Azadirachta indica) oil using a step trans-esterification process and determination of the qualities of the neem oil biodiesel. This was with a view to establish its production and viability potentials. Biodiesel production was carried using a step trans-esterification process. The first step was carried out using 5.5ml methanol-to-oil ratio in the presence of 0.70g KOH as a base catalyst in 30 to 45mins at 65°C. The physicochemical properties of the neem biodiesel were carried out using standard methods, while the fatty acid profile was determined using Gas Chromatography Mass Spectroscopy (GCMS). Optimized biodiesel yield of 89.69% was produced at reaction time of 45 min, catalyst amount of 0.70 g, temperature of 65 °C, and methanol/oil molar ratio. The aim of this project was to assess biodiesel production from Neem seed oil (NSO) in the presence of a catalyst prepared from potassium, hydrogen and oxygen. Three factors were investigated – oil-to-methanol ratio, catalyst loading and temperature – in order to optimise the process. Optimal reaction conditions obtained were methanol-to-oil molar ratio (6:1), catalyst loading (3.5w%) and temperature (65°C). It was assumed that the catalyst was used in sufficient amount with respect to oil in order to shift the reaction toward the formation of methyl ester. Key words: Neem seed oil, methanol, trans- esterification, Potassium hydroxide, Biodiesel.