La2O3/CaO catalyst derived from eggshells: Effects of preparation method and La content on textural properties and catalytic activity for transesterification

This research aims to develop the La2O3/CaO catalyst derived from eggshells by physical mixing and impregnation methods at various La contents. The synthesized catalyst was characterized using several techniques. The catalyst activity was tested via transesterification. It was found that La2O3/CaO obtained from physical mixing with the La content of 5%mol gave the maximum FAME yield (92.3%) due to the synergistic effect indicated by dual BrØnsted and Lewis basic sites with the highest basicity and surface area. La2O3/CaO obtained from the impregnation method gave the lower FAME yield due to the lower total basicity and BET surface area. [Display omitted] •Different precursors and preparation methods affected textural properties of La2O3/CaO.•La2O3/CaO was successfully synthesized by physical mixing method.•Small amount of La on CaO derived from eggshell provided the highest basicity.•Higher FAME yield was obtained by using La2O3/CaO catalyst.