Lab 4 - Synthesis of Biodiesel

NaOH is a strong base and hygroscopic

Saponification - Hydrolysis of a fat or oil by a base such as NaOH yielding salts of fatty acids (basically the synthesis of soap)

• By-product is glycerol (a tri-alcohol that is soluble in water)

• Soap molecules have a dual nature in regard to their intermolecular forces; They are both hydrophobic and hydrophilic.

Biodiesel

• Is a fatty acid methyl ester formed from transesterification of fats and oils

• Fat(or Oil) + Methanol → Glycerol + Fatty Acid Methyl Esters (Biodiesel)

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Green Advantages of Biodiesel

• Energy source which could replace petroleum

• Waste reduction

• Byproduct (glycerol) can be used as an alternative feedstock

• No net increase in CO2 levels