Biodiesel synthesis and physiochemical analysis of Taraxacum officinale FHWigg seed oil

Biodiesel is an environment-friendly, alternative and renewable energy resource, synthesized from inexpensive seed oils of non-edible feedstock through transesterification reaction with alcohol and a homogenous base catalyst. In the current study, Taraxacum officinale seed oil (30% by weight) is investigated for physiochemical characterization and biodiesel production. FTIR and GC analysis was carried out to investigate chemical properties and fatty acid profile of methyl ester of Taraxacum officinale seed oil. Optimized parameters of alcohol to oil (1:4), catalyst concentration at temperature of 65 degrees C resulted in highest yield of 92%, in 60min time using response surface methodology. In addition, comparison of fuel properties of synthesized biodiesel with ASTM D6751 and EN 14214 showed well-matched values. Our study thus recommends cultivation, cleaner production and utilization of Taraxacum officinale as a non-edible potential feedstock for biofuel production and industrial purposes.