Fusion-Assisted Hydrothermal Synthesis and Post-Synthesis Modification of Mesoporous Hydroxy Sodalite Zeolite Prepared from Waste Coal Fly Ash for Biodiesel Production

Increases in biodiesel prices remains a challenge, mainly due to the high cost of conventional oil feedstocks used during production and challenges associated with using homogeneous catalysts process. This study investigated conversion waste-derived black soldier fly (BSF) maggot feedstock over hydroxy sodalite (HS) zeolite synthesized from waste coal ash (CFA) production. The product prepared after fusion CFA followed by hydrothermal synthesis (F-HS) resulted highly crystalline, mesoporous F-HS considerable surface area 45 m2/g. impact post-synthesis modification parent HS catalyst ion exchange an alkali source (KOH) on its performance was investigated. yield 84.10%, good quality 65% fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) content fuel characteristics compliant standard specifications. After exchange, modified (K/F-HS) decreased crystallinity, mesoporosity total area. K/F-HS sub-standard 51.50% FAME content. Hence, contrary various studies, unfavorable as for Interestingly, derived showed favorable heterogeneous compared sodium hydroxide (NaOH) catalyst. more profitable process BSF economically comparable NaOH every kilogram produced. Furthermore, this potential address overall challenge via development low-cost alternatives.