Physico-chemical and electrical properties for the production and characterization of Biodiesel

P. A. SORICHETTI; S. D. ROMANO

PHYSICS AND CHEMISTRY OF LIQUIDS

Taylor & Francis

Lugar: Oxfordshire, Inglaterra; Año: 2005 vol. 43 p. 37 - 48

0031-9104

Biodiesel (BD) is a renewable fuel used in diesel engines as a replacement of Diesel Fuel or in blends. Biodiesel was obtained by a transesterification reaction between used frying oils and methanol, using sodium hydroxide as a catalyst. The oils were treated to eliminate water, thus avoiding the formation of soaps during the chemical reaction. The physical and chemical parameters relevant to the production process were optimized. Particular care was taken during the washing process of Biodiesel (BD). Viscosity, density, electrical properties and refractive index of Biodiesel were measured at the successive stages of the washing process together with electrical properties and pH of the effluents. In order to characterize the final product, calorific value and flash point were also measured. The results are in good agreement with the reference values in applicable standards and the literature.