Analysis on improving the conversion rate and waste reduction on bioconversion of Citrullus lanatus seed oil and its characterization

The works focus on maximizing the efficiency and reducing the wastage of reactant to make the possibility of upscaling in the bio-fuel production process for maximum yield conditions. Bio-oil derived from the Citrullus lanatus (Watermelon) for synthesizing methyl ester was used as a feedstock. The value of 1.13 mg KOH/g FFA content is recorded in the oil by employing the titration technique. Henceforth, transesterification using base catalyst reaction was allowed to transform watermelon seed oil into methyl ester. The experimental variables like methanol to oil molar ratio, KOH, and time remained for optimization based on the Taguchi technique. The outcome of the work was a 6:1 M ratio, 1 wt% KOH, 150 min and 55 °C are optimal experimental conditions for maximum conversion efficiency of 93.2%. Amid the four entities, the molar ratio was identified as the substantial influencing variable. The EN14214 standards were compared with characteristics of watermelon methyl ester, and the values obtained have fulfilled the requirements. [Display omitted] ●The non-edible Watermelon seed oil was considered for the synthesis of biodiesel.●The works focuses on minimizing the inefficiencies and reactant wastage during subsequent upscaling of production, Taguchi's Approach has been employed to present data on maximum yield conditions.●The relative significance of various reaction parameters, corresponding information has been presented by the application of analysis of variance technique.●The physico-chemical properties of the seed oil and biodiesel have been examined meticulously.●Watermelon Methyl Ester could be better substitute for existing fossil fuels in an unmodified diesel engine.