Intensification and Optimization of FAME Synthesis via Acid-Catalyzed Esterification Using Central Composite Design (CCD)

The acid-catalyzed pre-treatment esterification process is required for low-cost feedstock with high free fatty acids (FFAs) to avoid the saponification that occurs during alkali-catalyzed transesterification production of acid alkyl esters (FAAE). Reverse hydrolysis in causes a decrease methyl ester (FAME) yield. Therefore, must be intensified. This study aims develop and optimize low-temperature intensification enhance biodiesel yield reduce energy consumption. Three systems were studied: co-solvent technique, coupled adsorption water using molecular sieves, entrainer-based continuous removal water. variables reaction co-solvents without system optimized by central composite design (CCD). showed was effective intensifying FFA conversion (XFFA) at low temperatures, compared other two systems, due dilution effect co-solvent/entrainer amount sufficient vapors system. Optimized have achieved 95% XFFA within 75 min 55 °C, 20 mL/100 g oil DEE, 9 MR, 3 wt % H2SO4, 320–350 RPM