An experimental investigation of biodiesel synthesis from waste canola oil using supercritical methanol

Synthesis of biodiesel from waste canola oil using supercritical methanol is investigated under relatively moderate reaction conditions (240-270 degrees C/10 MPa) with residence time of 15-45 min and methanol to oil weight ratio of 1:1, 1.5:1 or 2:1. The effects of reaction conditions on the biodiesel yield were studied using design of experiments (DOE). The results showed that reaction time, temperature, and their interaction were the most significant factors on the yield. The highest biodiesel yield of 102% was achieved at 270 degrees C, 10 MPa, and methanol/oil weight ratio of 2 for 45 min reaction time. The GC-MS analysis of the reaction products showed that the by-product, glycerol, further reacted with methanol, generating methyl ethers of glycerol. Further confirmation of this side reaction was obtained by reacting glycerol and methanol at 270 degrees C/10 MPa for 15, 30, and 45 min. The experimental results showed these reactions could positively affect the overall biodiesel yield by providing oxygenated compounds such as 3-methoxy-1,2-propanediol, dimethoxymethane, and 2,2-dimethoxypropane as well as methyl palmitate and methyl oleate. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.