Extraction Optimization, Characterization, and Biodiesel Conversion Potentials of Jatropha curcas Seed Oil

International Journal of Chemistry | Vol. 2, No. 7, July 2011 | pp. 76–83

DOI: 10.46882/2011/IJC/000034

Article Type: Original Research Paper

Title: Extraction Optimization, Characterization, and Biodiesel Conversion Potentials of Jatropha curcas Seed Oil

Names of Authors: M. C. Okonkwo¹, G. B. Nwosu¹*

Authors’ Affiliations:
¹Department of Industrial Chemistry, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu, Nigeria.

Abstract: The production of alternative bio-fuels from non-edible crop lipids is necessary to satisfy energy demands while protecting agricultural food security reservoirs. This research optimizes the extraction parameters and transesterification conversion pathways of Jatropha curcas seed oil into fatty acid methyl esters (FAME). Soxhlet solvent extraction using n-hexane produced a base seed oil yield of 46.8%. Physicochemical evaluations showed a specific gravity of 0.915, a saponification value of 194.2 mg KOH/g, and an initial acid value of 4.12 mg KOH/g. Because of the high free fatty acid content, a two-step acid-base catalyzed transesterification route was deployed. The first step reduced the acid value below 1.0 mg KOH/g using 1% sulfuric acid in methanol, followed by base-catalyzed transesterification with potassium hydroxide (KOH). FAME yield was optimized at 94.5% using a 6:1 methanol-to-oil molar ratio, a catalyst concentration of 1.0 wt% KOH, and a process temperature of 60°C for 90 minutes. Fuel properties of the synthesized Jatropha biodiesel, including kinematic viscosity (4.2 mm²/s at 40°C), flash point (164°C), and cetane index (54), matched the international ASTM D6751 regulatory specifications.

Keywords: Jatropha curcas; Biodiesel; Transesterification; Free fatty acids; Kinematic viscosity; Renewable energy

Manuscript Timeline: Received: February 18, 2011; Revised: March 28, 2011; Accepted: April 22, 2011; Published: July 03, 2011.

Citation: Okonkwo, M. C., & Nwosu, G. B. (2011). Extraction Optimization, Characterization, and Biodiesel Conversion Potentials of Jatropha curcas Seed Oil. International Journal of Chemistry, 2(7), 76–83.

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