DOI: https://doi.org/10.55373/mjchem.v26i6.150

Keywords: Oyster shell; calcium oxide, biodiesel

Abstract

In this study, we investigated the use of waste oyster shells as a sustainable source for calcium oxide catalysts in the transesterification of palm oil for biodiesel production. The modified catalyst was pelletized to facilitate easy separation and handling within the biodiesel reactor. Waste shells were calcined at 900°C for 5 h, converting calcium carbonate to calcium oxide. The innovation lies in the modification of the catalyst by pelletization, enabling efficient separation, handling, and reuse within the biodiesel reactor. The catalyst was characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Biodiesel conversion exceeded 98% under optimized conditions (reaction time: 5 h, catalyst loading: 10%, temperature: 80°C, methanol-to-oil ratio: 3:1). Additionally, the reusability of the catalyst pellets was evaluated, showing consistent high yields (over 80%) across ten reaction cycles, showcasing its durability and potential for cost-effective, large-scale biodiesel production.