Application of hydrophobic iron oxide as catalyst for palm oil transesterification process

In this study, Fe3O4 nanoparticles was functionalized and applied as magnetic catalyst for production of biodiesel. For this purpose, magnetite was hydrophobized using methionine as modifier at different pH. The asprepared catalyst was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The results showed that neutral media depict efficient functionalization of Fe3O4. The catalytic activity of optimal hydrophobic Fe3O4 was investigated through transesterification of palm oil. The TLC results authenticate the production of biodiesel from palm oil.

Keywords:

Biodiesel , Amino acid , Magnetic nanocatalyst , Transestrification