Production Of Biodiesel (Fame) From Palm Kernel Oil (PKO) Using Concentrated Sulphuric Acid As Catalyst

The Production Of Biodiesel (Fame) From Palm Kernel Oil (PKO) Using Concentrated Sulphuric Acid As Catalyst Project Material

Abstract

Biodiesel (FAME) is an alternative fuel for diesel engine that is environmentally friendly to substitute diesel obtained from petroleum processes. In this study, a laboratory scale production of FAME from palm kernel oil (PKO) using concentrated sulphuric acid as catalyst was presented. The methyl ester of PKO was characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results show that the methyl esters of the PKO are in good agreement with the specification for biodiesels. However, the yield of biofuels has been limited by its inability to economically compete with subsidized petroleum diesel. Therefore, this project seeks to establish an alternative suitable route to which FAME can be produced at a cheaper cost and environmentally friendly with increased qualities and characteristics of the fundamental parameters that are to be analyzed when compared to diesel produced from mineral or conventional oils. Statistical design of experiments will be used to accumulate and analyze information on the effect of process variables on the yield. This method was found superior than the conventional method of studying one variable at one time while keeping the rest constant.

Chapter One

1.0 INTRODUCTION
This chapter introduces the Production Of Biodiesel (Fame) From Palm Kernel Oil (PKO) Using Concentrated Sulphuric Acid As Catalyst and its relevance, states the research problems, research questions, and objectives, provides a background of the study, and should also include the research hypothesis.

Biochemistry (206), Chemistry (240), Chemistry Education (338)

Chapter Two: Literature Review

In this chapter, Production Of Biodiesel (Fame) From Palm Kernel Oil (PKO) Using Concentrated Sulphuric Acid As Catalyst is critically examined through a review of relevant literature that helps explain the research problem and acknowledges the contribution of scholars who had previously contributed immensely to similar research. The chapter intends to deepen the understanding of the study and close the perceived gaps …

Chapter Five

Conclusion and Recommendation

5.1 Conclusion

Palm kernel oil is an economical choice for the production of biodiesel because of its availability and cost. However, the widespread production of biodiesel has been limited by its inability to economically compete with subsidized petroleum diesel.

From the laboratory scale production and characterization of the methyl ester of PKO (biodiesel) studied, it may be concluded that laboratory – scale Nigerian PKO biodiesel gave promising results as alternative diesel fuel with fuel properties in good agreement with the biodiesel specification standard.

5.2 Recommendation

The production of biodiesel is an interesting research project as it exposes one to identifying an alternative fuel. As such, the method applied should be strictly followed and ensure that water is eliminated totally from the process because its presence is problematic to the biodiesel.

It is also recommended that large scale production of biodiesel be encouraged. This will help to create employment opportunity and add to the Nation’s economy as the by-product (glycerol) obtained from the process has lots of industrial uses. It can be used for the production of toilet soaps, drugs, beverages, tooth paste, alkyd resins e.t.c.