Production and Evaluation of Biodiesel from Palm Oil and Ghee (Clarified Butter)

Abstract

The scarcity of conventional fossil fuels, growing emissions of combustion-generated pollutants, and their increasing costs will make biomass sources more attractive. Biodiesel has become more attractive recently because of its environmental benefits and the fact that it is made from renewable resources. The finite nature of fossil fuels necessitates consideration of alternative fuels from renewable sources. This article reports experimental work on the production of biodiesel by Transesterification from two biofeeds, having less Iodine Value; Palm oil and Ghee (known as Clarified Butter) using alkaline catalyst. The variables affecting the yield and characteristics of the biodiesel produced from these biofeed were studied. The biodiesel samples were physiochemically characterized according to ASTM standards. From results it was clear that the biodiesel fuel produced from Palm oil and Ghee (Clarified Butter) was within the recommended standards of biodiesel fuel and shows promising alternative.

Keywords: Biodiesel, Transesterification, Palm oil, Ghee (Clarified Butter), Optimum condition