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Biodiesel production using a functionalized hybrid biochar catalyst: RSM-based optimization and comprehensive evaluation

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  • Yadav, Gaurav
  • Yadav, Nidhi
  • Ahmaruzzaman, Md.

Abstract

A recyclable organic carbon-based acidic catalyst was developed from Pistacia vera and Juglans regia shells for microwave-assisted biodiesel production. The Functionalized Hybrid Biochar (FHB) catalyst, with a high surface area of 156.525 m2/g, exhibited excellent performance for esterification and transesterification. Using response surface methodology (RSM) with central composite design (CCD), the optimal conditions 3 wt% catalyst dosage, 1:9 oleic acid-to-methanol molar ratio, 80 °C, and 55-min reaction time yielded 99 ± 0.5 % biodiesel through esterification, and 92.4 ± 1.2 %, 79.7 ± 0.8 % through transesterification of soyabean and palm oil. The FHB catalyst displayed a low activation energy of 16.313 kJ/mol, 32.463 kJ mol−1, and 22.801 kJ mol−1, with thermodynamic studies confirming endothermic reactions and enhanced mass transfer rates. Economic analysis revealed a production cost of just $1.096/kg, and the catalyst maintained high efficiency over six cycles, demonstrating excellent reusability. The FHB catalyst offers a sustainable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly solution for biodiesel production through esterification and transesterification.

Suggested Citation

  • Yadav, Gaurav & Yadav, Nidhi & Ahmaruzzaman, Md., 2025. "Biodiesel production using a functionalized hybrid biochar catalyst: RSM-based optimization and comprehensive evaluation," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 252(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:252:y:2025:i:c:s0960148125011486
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2025.123486
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    10. Yadav, Nidhi & Yadav, Gaurav & Ahmaruzzaman, Md., 2024. "Azadirachta indica leaf extract-derived NiS@Functionalized biochar catalyst: Efficient acetalization and enhanced reusability in photodegradation of tinidazole," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 229(C).
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    1. Chen, Renhua & Xue, Boyuan & Zhu, Fenfen & Qiu, Yuqun & Wang, Huan & Wang, Yuxin & Feng, Huan & Wang, Yiyu & Zhou, Tiantian, 2026. "The application of heterogeneous catalysts in esterification/ transesterification for biodiesel production," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 226(PB).

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