Environment-friendly Renewable Energy from Sesame Biodiesel

Biodiesel was prepared by transesterification of sesame seed oil with methanol in the presence of NaOH as catalyst. The optimization of this base catalyzed at 1:7, 1:8, 1:9, and 1:10 molar ratio (oil:methanol) yield maximum biodiesel 86, 88, 90, and 92%, respectively at 60 degrees C. The fuel properties of sesame biodiesel (100%) such as specific gravity @ 60/60 degrees F was 0.887, flash point 110 degrees C, pour point -18 degrees C, kinematic viscosity @ 40 degrees C 5.77, cetane number 53, and sulfur contents 0.0083. All these fuel properties meet the specification of ASTM. Engine fueling with sesame biodiesel and its blends (B20%, B10%, and B5%) in terms of fuel consumption, efficiency, and power outputs appeared to have equal performance compared to mineral diesel. There is no obvious change in engine power output even at 100% biodiesel. Furthermore, it was noted that the environmental performance of sesame biodiesel was superior to that of mineral diesel.