Abstract :
In this study, biodiesel synthesis from balanites aegyapatia oil by alkaline and lipase catalyzed
transesterification is investigated. The oil content extracted from the balanites aegyapatia kernel by solvent extraction
is found to be 44-51%. The free fatty acid profile of balanites aegyapatia oil comprises mainly linoleic acid (43.69%),
oleic acid (32.89%) and palmitic acid (17.1%). The optimum reaction conditions for alkaline catalyzed
transesterification of balanites aegyapatia oil were found to be 1.26% potassium hydroxide catalyst concentration,
8:1 molar ratio (methanol: oil), reaction temperature of 650C and reaction time 2.5 h, whereas for transesterification
reactions catalyzed by xylanase lipase, the optimized conditions are, 1% xylanase concentration, 8:1 molar ratio
(methanol: oil), reaction temperature of 400C for 4 h reaction time. The optimum reaction conditions (i.e., reaction
time, reaction temperature, methanol/oil molar ratio and the water content) on fatty acid methyl ester yield were
considered.
Keyword :
Banalities aegyptiaca oil, Tranesterification, free fatty acid profile, alkaline catalyzed, Lipase catalyzed.