Glycerol-free FAME and Triacetin synthesis from waste cooking oil using MW reactor
摘要
Present work investigated interesterification of waste cooking oil using a microwave (MW) reactor. The results showed a significant improvement in energy consumption and maximum yield of FAME compared to conventional methods. Additionally, using a microwave reactor allowed for a faster reaction time of 25 min compared to conventional methods. Oil-methyl acetate molar ratio, sodium methoxide catalyst concentration, and reaction temperature played a significant role in the synthesis of FAME. The optimum conditions for processes were found to be 1:8 molar ratio, 0.75% wt. catalyst concentration, 55 °C reaction temperature, and 25 min reaction time. W reactor consumed 94 and 35% less energy than conventional and ultrasound reactors, respectively. The molecular-level interaction of MW and the thermal effects associated with MW were useful in intensifying the reaction rate and reducing the energy consumption. The second-order kinetic rate constant for the optimum condition was 22.47 × 10− 2, L mol− 1 min− 1. The qualitative parameters such as flash point, kinematic viscosity, density, and acid value of the final product were analyzed and compared with ASTM D 6751. The flash point of the final product was 168.5 °C, which confirmed the superior quality of the product obtained.
Graphical abstract