Production of Biodiesel From Phyllanthus emblica Seeds Using Activated Charcoal as Heterogenous Catalyst

Abstract

Biodiesel can be a vital substitute for the traditional fossil fuels. Biodiesel is not only renewable but also contributes to environment by reducing green gas emission. But using edible crops as source for biofuel production can cause food security problems. In the present investigation, seeds of Phyllanthus emblica which is a nonedible source was used for biodiesel production. Seeds were collected and dried and then converted to thin powder which was used as feedstock. Oil extraction was optimized using different extraction methods. GC-FID was carried out for analysing the fatty acid profile of the extracted oil. Dimethyl carbonate was used instead of methanol and activated charcoal was used as catalyst for efficient biodiesel production. Activated charcoal was produced and analyzed with FTIR and SEM to study about morphology of the activated charcoal. Transesterification reaction parameters were optimized. Temperature of 40, 60 and 80°C, DMC to oil molar ratio of 2:1, 4:1, 6:1, 8:1 and catalyst concentration of 1.5, 2 and 2.5wt% in relation to oil was carried out to find the efficient reaction conditions. GC-MS was carried out to confirm the presence of fatty acid alkyl esters.