ABSTRACT
This study examined how different catalysts affected the production of biodiesel from pumpkin seed oil. The study also sought to optimize reaction parameters for increased efficiency, such as temperature, catalyst concentration, as well as to examine the effects of various catalyst types on biodiesel yield.
The pumpkin seed oil used for biodiesel production was extracted by solvent extraction method. Eggshells and snail shells were used as catalysts.
The biodiesel obtained was characterized in terms of physicochemical properties. The results showed that the density of snail shell biodiesel was marginally higher than that of egg shell biodiesel, both falling within the ASTM D6751 range. However, acid values and free fatty acid (FFA) contents exceeded ASTM standards, indicating potential challenges in meeting quality requirements. Nonetheless, close values for these parameters between snail shell and egg shell biodiesel suggested consistent processing results. Egg shell biodiesel exhibited higher kinematic viscosity compared to snail shell biodiesel, yet both fell within acceptable ASTM D6751 ranges. Additionally, cloud point and pour point readings met ASTM standards, ensuring fluidity at low temperatures. Flash point values exceeded ASTM requirements, indicating safe handling and storage qualities, while cetane numbers confirmed eligibility for use in diesel engines.
Overall, the findings demonstrated that egg and snail shells have the potential to be sustainable feedstock as catalysts for the manufacture of biodiesel as the characteristics of the biodiesel of both catalysts satisfied ASTM D6751 standards. This study has revealed the potential of pumpkin seeds, eggshells and snail shells as workable, environment friendly, non-conventional bio-fuel alternative materials.
