Process Optimization for Biodiesel Production and Its Effect on the Performance of Diesel Engines

The operating conditions of transesterification reaction for maximum yield of biodiesel from waste cooking oil were optimized by using response surface methodology (RSM) in terms of stoichiometric methanol‐to‐oil ratio, reaction temperature, and reaction time. The RSM model was significant with R2 = 0.99. Gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy certified the formation of methyl ester of most triglycerides. The produced biodiesel was tested in a diesel engine to be compared with biodiesel blends and pure petrodiesel, indicating promising results with regard to performance and emissions. The main parameters of transesterification reaction were studied by response surface methodology to maximize the yield of biodiesel from waste cooking oils. The obtained biodiesel and its blends showed promising results compared to petrodiesel with respect to thermal efficiency, exhaust gas temperature, specific fuel consumption, volumetric efficiency, and emissions concentrations of CO, CO2, and O2.