Biodiesel production from mahua oil: characterisation, optimisation, and modelling with a hybrid statistical approach

Present study investigates the feasibility of utilising mahua oil as a feedstock for the production of high-quality biodiesel via the transesterification process. Mahua fruit kernels offer an excellent biodiesel source, with an oil content of approximately 35–40%. This study employs a hybrid statistical approach, combining Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Genetic Algorithm (GA), to optimise the transesterification process. Through the execution of L31 pre-designed experiments, this work analyzes the significance of four key process parameters: methanol-to-oil ratio, catalyst concentration, reaction temperature, and reaction time. The collective influence of these parameters on biodiesel production is comprehensively examined. The GA-derived optimal conditions for biodiesel production are determined as a molar ratio of 7.28 with a 0.93 wt.% catalyst concentration, a reaction temperature of 59.43°C, and a reaction time of 113.62 min. Experimental results validate the model predictions, as the actual yield of Mahua biodiesel reaches 97.54%, with a deviation of only 2.82% from the predicted value. Furthermore, the fuel characteristics of Mahua methyl ester were assessed and compared to ASTM standards. In conclusion, this study highlights the potential of Mahua oil as a valuable and cost-effective feedstock for biodiesel production, thereby opening avenues for its future application as an alternative fuel source. © 2023 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.