Effect of Storage Conditions on the Quality of Jatropha curcas Oils

Abstract

Nonedible plant oil extracted from Jatropha curcas L. offers the potential to be an alternative to fossil fuel resources. This study aims to evaluate the effects of storage time and conditions on the properties of different oils. Samples of the oils as well as biodiesel fuel made through methyl esterification were stored in a light-shielded room and also outside (unprotected from sunlight). The properties examined were density, kinematic viscosity, acid value, and oxidation stability. The experimental results showed that the oils had different sensitivities to the storage time and that a clear deterioration of the oxidation stability was found in the crude Jatropha-derived oil exposed to sunlight.