Synthesis of Biodiesel from Ricinus communis L. Seed Oil, a Promising Non-Edible Feedstock Using Calcium Oxide Nanoparticles as a Catalyst

This work aimed to synthesize biodiesel from Ricinus communis L., using calcium oxide (CaO) nanoparticles as a catalyst. The CaO were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD). physico-chemical properties of studied through H C-NMR, GC-MS, FT-IR, fuel according ASTM EN standard methods. oil content the feedstock was 53.7% with free fatty acid (FFA) 0.89 mg KOH/g. suitable condition for optimum yield (89%) 1:15 methanol 20 catalyst at temperature 60 °C 80 100 min reaction time. C-NMR confirm synthesis showing important peaks 3.661, 2.015–2.788, 24.83–34.16 174.26 130.15 ppm. Similarly, GC-MS spectroscopy confirmed 18 different types methyl esters (FAME) in sample. FT-IR characteristic formation range 1725–1750 cm−1 1000–1300 cm−1. compared international standards. that RCB is both an engine environmentally friendly fuel.