Optimisation of Bio-Diesel made from Non-Edible Avocado Seed Oil (ASO) Using Homogenous H2SO4/KOH Catalyst

Bio-diesel has proven to be a better alternative to fossil diesel due to its eco-friendly, ease of production, high cetane rating and sustainability (renewable) which are the major drawback of fossil fuel. In this study, a non-edible avocado seed oil was used to formulate biodiesel. The avocado seed oil was extracted using cold press mill. The seed oil was then subjected to esterification to reduce the acidic value to <1mgKOH/g using sulphuric acid catalyst (H2SO4). Subsequently, the optimisation of the transesterification process was carried out by investigating the effect of different blend of molarity of oil to methanol (1: 6, 1.5:6, 2: 5, and 2.5:4.5) concentration of KOH catalyst % weight (0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2), reaction time in minutes (55, 65, 75, and 85) and reaction temperature (55,60,65 and 70) OC on the yield of ASO biodiesel (%). The study revealed that highest ASO biodiesel yield (%) was observed with KOH 1% weight concentration; 75 min reaction time, 650C and 1: 6 molarity of oil to methanol. The physico-chemical parameters of ASO biodiesel assessed were in conformity with ASTM standard and with literature. The assessment revealed that ASO biodiesel has some improved properties over fossil diesel. Therefore, it can be used solely or as a blend in diesel engine.