The Use of Domestic Microwave Oven and Blender in Biodiesel Synthesis

Abstract

We propose in this study the use of household appliances, microwave oven and household blender without adaptation, in fatty acid ethyl ester synthesis from the transesterification of waste frying oil for use in chemistry lessons at different levels of education. The advantage in using the microwave oven, in particular, is in reducing reaction time by almost 10 times compared to traditional experiments. Furthermore, the use of such appliances without adjustments, both of the oven as the blender, eliminates the need for sophisticated equipment and glassware high cost. The success of the reaction, even in these conditions, can be noticed by CCD analysis and 1H NMR spectrum. The realization of biodiesel synthesis in the classroom with the aforementioned tools allows relating chemical concepts such as transesterification reactions, saponification, combustion, stoichiometry and catalysis with environmental issues surrounding sustainable development, recycling and biofuel.