(63t) An Analysis of Biodiesel Production by Continuous Supercritical Methanol Reaction

Biodiesel is a renewable fuel that can be produced from vegetable oils, animal fats, and other feedstocks. It is traditionally produced using either acid or base catalysis, depending on the type of feedstock used. However, these traditional methods produce a great deal of waste and require long conversion times. Supercritical methanol reaction has fast reaction times and low waste production. This method has been explored for biodiesel production, but few studies have investigated the kinetics for a continuous reactor. In this study, a continuous supercritical reaction with methanol has been used to produce biodiesel from tall oil fatty acids, a paper byproduct. The reactor used in these experiments is unique in that it contains static mixers to provide contact between the reactants in case complete supercritical conditions are not reached. This project investigated the kinetics of a continuous supercritical reactor and will test the effect of statics mixers within the reactor.