Fe3O4/ZnMg(AI)O magnetic nanoparticles for efficient biodiesel production

Fe3O4/ZnMg(Al)O solid base catalyst was prepared by calcining ZnMgAI-LDHs grown on the surface of magnetic Fe3O4 synthesized by chemical coprecipitation. The magnetic property of the catalyst was studied by vibrating sample magnetometer. The results showed that the catalyst possessed excellent magnetic responsivity, and it could be recovered by external magnetic field. The magnetic catalyst was also characterized by ICP, TG-DTG, XRD, SEM, EDS, TEM and N-2 absorption-desorption. It was found that the catalyst showed a unique porous structure. The reaction conditions affecting biodiesel yield were investigated, the biodiesel yield reached 94% was obtained under the optimal conditions. The biodiesel yield was still above 82% after 7 times of regeneration, and the catalyst can be easily separated and recycled.