Use of colloid chemistry principles to improve efficiency in biodiesel production

Abstract

The principles of colloid chemistry have been employed to improve the efficiency of biodiesel production. Potential sources of material loss caused by colloid chemistry were linked to specific steps in the sequence of unit operations, and literature reviewed for possible solutions. Liquid-liquid equilibrium and trans-esterification experiments with high oleic sunflower and rapeseed oils were conducted using apolar and polar solvents. The kinetics of trans-esterification were improved by both through the modification of interfacial resistance but the shift to final chemical equilibrium was only possible with apolar solvents. The use of an apolar solvent is beneficial in synthesis and product refining alike, though the removal of interfacial resistance between reaction partners, by shifting the reversible trans-esterification to close to complete conversion in a single step, and by reducing losses in material and profit. The results can be used to design and operate leaner, more efficient biodiesel production s ystems.