Synthesis and Characterization of Li-Zeolite Catalyst for Biodiesel Production from Castor oil

This study used lithium-modified Zeolite as a heterogeneous catalyst to make biodiesel from non-edible castor oil. The catalyst was wet impregnated with natural Zeolite and characterized by XRD, FTIR, and SEM. Castor oil was extracted and injected into a GC-MS unit for analysis, and established procedures were used to evaluate chemical properties. The catalyst's performance in the transesterification reaction was examined to determine optimal process conditions and reusability. catalyst characterization study found that the lithium-modified zeolite catalyst selectively produces methyl esters from castor oil with 4% FFA in a batch process. The maximum biodiesel yield was 92% at 60 degrees C, 60 min, 6:1 methanol-to-oil molar ratio, and 1.5% catalyst loading. The catalyst reusability test showed 12.8% degradation after four cycles. Under ideal conditions, biodiesel had a flashpoint of 62 degrees C, kinematic viscosity of 1.24 cSt, and density of 0.81 g/cm3. Fuel properties were compared to ASTM standards to verify compliance. Castor oil is a promising biodiesel source. Zeolite modified with lithium is an effective heterogeneous catalytic transesterification catalyst for methyl ester under milder reaction conditions.