Response Surface Modelling and Optimization Study of Transesterification of Castor Oil Using Calcined Anthill as Catalyst

The source of catalyst and feedstock used for transesterification oil play a significant role in cost, starvation consumers especially edible sources. This investigation aimed at the castor with aid calcined anthill as support. Box Behnken Design (BBD) Response Surface methodology was employed to study relationship among variable production such time (1 – 3 h), temperature (40 60oC), loading 9 g), methanol volume (10 60 ml) agitation rate (100 400 rpm) on yield biodiesel produced. synthesized characterized using X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) while produced through determination physicochemical function group applicable biodiesel. found contain some mixed basic oxides. properties are within American Standard Test Methods (ASTM) range (except density that is higher), functional groups typical vibrations presence optimum condition 11.73 ml, 166.458 rpm, reaction 2.34375 hrs, 59.4552oC, 1.14 g, an optimal 90.59 %.