Production of biolubricant samples from palm kernel oil using different chemical modification approaches

Abstract

This work focused on the chemical synthesis and characterization of palm kernel oil (PKO) for biolubricant production using transesterification of palm kernel methyl ester with trimethylolpropane (TMP) and epoxidation‐esterification methods. The PKO was extracted using solvent extraction method. The physicochemical characteristics of the PKO and produced biolubricant samples were determined using standard methods. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometry and gas chromatographic (GC) analyses were used to determine the predominant functional groups and fatty acids of PKO and the produced biolubricant samples, respectively. The kernel oil yield of 49.82% (by weight) was obtained at 55°C, 150 min and 0.5 mm particle size. The viscosities at 40°C, 100°C, viscosity index, pour and flash points of the biolubricants produced by transesterification with TMP (PKBLT) and epoxidation‐esterification (PKBLE) methods, were (42.53 cSt, 10.65 cSt, 139, −11°C, 235°C) and (44.69 cSt, 11.42 cSt, 132, −12°C, 240°C), respectively. Time, mole ratio, and temperature effects were the main factors that significantly influenced the transesterification and epoxidation processes. The obtained physicochemical properties of PKBLE and PKBLT samples showed conformity with ISO VG 32 standard, hence their possible application as biolubricant basestock. Furthermore, the presences of the C–H, OH functional groups in the FTIR results, indicate the biodegradability of the produced biolubricant samples; while the GC analyses indicate that the samples were mainly saturated fatty acids.

Ring‐Opening of Epoxidized Waste Cooking Oil by Hydroxylation Process: Optimization and Kinetic Modelling

“…Unsaturated bonds undergo oxidation to form epoxy groups, commonly known as oxirane rings. During this process epoxides are formed when double bonds react with peracids [4] . This is accomplished by a coordinated process that results in cis stereospecific addition.…”

“…During this process epoxides are formed when double bonds react with peracids. [4] This is accomplished by a coordinated process that results in cis stereospecific addition. A cis olefin produces a cis epoxide, while a trans olefin produces a trans epoxide.…”

Selective epoxidation of the unsaturated fatty acids

“…In many study domains, the quantity of research focusing on these transversal subjects is increasing at an exponential rate. Because both fossil fuels and oils generated by plants were once plants countless years ago, it seems logical that they're chemically similar [2] [3]. Today, epoxidized vegetable oil is becoming increasingly popular because it is utilised to replace petroleum-derived sources [4].…”

Biolubricant production via esterification and transesterification processes: Current updates and perspectives

“…New and sustainable lubricants are also needed to replace conventional lubricants derived from fossil fuels. This could solve many recent environmentally‐related challenges and will resolve issues concerning their sustainability 2,3,4 . With additional problems surrounding climate change on the global scale, and exhaustion of oil reserves rising, the need for several environmentally friendly and sustainable options compared with current practices continues to gain maximum focus and attention 5 .…”

“…This could solve many recent environmentally-related challenges and will resolve issues concerning their sustainability. 2,3,4 With additional problems surrounding climate change on the global scale, and exhaustion of oil reserves rising, the need for several environmentally friendly and sustainable options compared with current practices continues to gain maximum focus and attention. 5 For instance, in Europe, yearly, research has shown that 20% of the 5.2 million tonnes of lubricant used is discharged into the ecosystem, and 1 kg of said mineral oil has the potency to contaminate large and significant volumes of water.…”