Browsing by Author "Mesifin Gebreyohanes"

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    Enhanced Chlorella Vulgaris Species Derived Biodiesel Production Through Transesterification Reaction Using Heterogeneous Nanocatalyst
    (Addis Ababa University, 2024-05) Mesifin Gebreyohanes; Yedilfana Setarge
    The goal of the research project is to produce biodiesel utilizing oil from the Chlorella vulgaris species using a heterogeneous potassium impregnated calcium oxide (K/CaO) catalyst that is made from calcite with an average size of 38.1906 nm. Chlorella vulgaris Oil extraction from harvested, dried, and ground up microalgae was carried out using a microwave-assisted n-hexane and methanol mix solvent extraction method, and the physicochemical properties were determined. Microalgae were isolated and cultured in BBM under illumination of 2500lux light intensity from non-heat releasing white florescence 12:12 hour dark and light cycle. The density, kinematic viscosity, acid value, saponification value and free fatty acids were recorded as 0.87 g/ml, 35.51mm2/s, 1.93mgKOH/g of oil, 212.81mg/g of oil, and 0.88% respectively. The factors that affect the biodiesel yield were investigated. An optimum yield of 94% biodiesel was obtained at reaction temperature of 50 0C, 5% catalyst load and 13:1 alcohol to oil molar ratio and 60 minute time. The biodiesel's physicochemical qualities were assessed, and the outcomes were contrasted with ASTM criteria. Density at 20oC (811kg/m3), kinematic viscosity (4.7 mm2/s), acid value (0.459mgKOH/g of oil), free fatty acid (0.23%), and flash point (124 oC) were listed as the physicochemical characteristics of the biodiesel produced. The findings suggested the possibility of algal oil as a feedstock for the biodiesel sector, which could be used as an alternative fuel source, and the fuel qualities were found to be within ASTM criteria.