Optimization of Biodiesel Production Parameters from Cucurbita maxima Waste Oil Using Microwave Assisted via Box-Behnken Design Approach

Abstract

The production of biodiesel from vegetables or fruits waste oils has high potential as renewable energy. The Cucurbita maxima wastes are massive source of oils, which are believed to indicate the possible sources of renewable energy whose biodiesel can be produced. Hence, the study explores the potential of the Cucurbita maxima wastes, for the production of biodiesel. In this study, the Soxhlet extraction method was used to extract Cucurbita maxima waste oil using an organic solvent. Through Box-Behnken design (BBD), the effects of methanol to oil molar ratio (6–10), catalyst concentration (2–6%), and reaction time (45–75 min) on the transesterification efficiency of methyl esters were investigated. The oil contents of Cucurbita maxima waste was found to be 44.6 ± 0.21 %. This oil was characterized, and after obtaining the pure characterized oil, biodiesel was produced using microwave assisted by the transesterification process. The optimum conversion efficiency of the Cucurbita maxima waste oil to fatty acid methyl ether was 97.76%, at the optimal parameters, methanol to oil ratio (8.4 : 1), catalyst concentration (3.14%), and reaction time (57.12 min). The results revealed that all parameters have a significant effect on the yield of biodiesel ( p < 0.0001 ). The physicochemical properties reveal that the Cucurbita maxima waste oil could be applied as a potential source of material for methyl ester production. The fatty acid profile of the oil indicated that it was mainly composed of unsaturated fatty acid, which ensures good flow properties of the fuel. The results of these studies showed the prospective of Cucurbita maxima wastes as a new potential feedstock for biodiesel production.

Valorization of Tomato Seed By-Products as a Source of Fatty Acids and Bioactive Compounds by Using Advanced Extraction Techniques

“…The FTIR spectrum of tomato seed oil is shown in Figure 4 , and it displayed the typical characteristic peaks reported for edible vegetable oils. Similar FTIR spectra were reported for seeds from tomato, pumpkin, pomegranate, and grape, as well as sunflower, sesame, and Curcubita maxima waste oils [ 60 , 61 , 62 , 63 , 64 , 65 ]. The observed characteristic peaks in the FTIR spectrum evidenced the presence of several functional groups.…”

Optimized microwave-assisted azadirachtin extraction using response surface methodology

“…A BBD [ 30 , 31 ] was applied to evaluate the significant effects of the factors, magnetron voltage (X1), extraction time (X2), and pH of the extraction medium (X3), on the yield of azadirachtin obtained. Table 1 shows the range of the independent variables and their levels.…”

Experimental investigation of TBC coated piston with various blends of biodiesel

“…Between these, the efficiency of biodiesel synthesis is significantly influenced by microwave irradiation. 19 Therefore, it is imperative to engage in innovative energy sources like biodiesel made from plants like rapeseed, soybean, and safflower, specifically considering the potential impact biofuels might play in reducing atmospheric gas emission. 20 The major contribution of this research work are:…”

“…In addition to such methods, other procedure intensifications for the manufacture of biodiesel include membrane processors, steam distillation, microwaves, and ultrasonics. Between these, the efficiency of biodiesel synthesis is significantly influenced by microwave irradiation 19 . Therefore, it is imperative to engage in innovative energy sources like biodiesel made from plants like rapeseed, soybean, and safflower, specifically considering the potential impact biofuels might play in reducing atmospheric gas emission 20 …”