Production of biodiesel from Jatropha oil (Curcas Oil)

Abstract

This work deals with the production of Biodiesel from Jatropha oil also known as Curcas oil. Material used for the production was sourced for locally. Basic test for the suitability of the Jatropha oil was carried out in the lab. The test carried out to determine if the produced Biodiesel met standards set was carried out at the NNPC Kaduna Refinery. The production consisted of very few materials which makes the fuel easily produced without much complication. Jatropha oil was heated to 60^oC, a solution of Potassium methoxide also at 600C was added and stirred continuously for one hour. It was left to settle for 24 hours. Glycerine is then removed from the sample by decantation. The sample is then washed and dried. Test carried out on the biodiesel found it well within limits set for biodiesel’s properties by ISO 14214 specification on Biodiesel.

Keywords: Biodiesel, Jatropha Oil, Refinery, Potassium Methoxide, Glycerine, By-product, Filtering.