Multi-Response Optimization of Epoxidation Process Parameters of Rapeseed Oil Using Response Surface Methodology (RSM)-Based Desirability Analysis

The primary efforts of this investigation stand focused on formulating a biodegradable lubricant with good thermo-oxidative stability and low pour point. Rapeseed oil was chosen to this end and was chemically modified via epoxidation, hydroxylation and transesterification processes. This study focuses on multi-response optimization of epoxidation of rapeseed oil with performic acid as oxygen carrier generated in situ. Experiments were conducted using full factorial central composite design. Response Surface methodology-based desirability analysis was employed for the optimization of process parameters namely reaction time and temperature based on the multiple performance characteristics including oxirane content and % conversion. The mathematical models were developed and tested for adequacy using analysis of variance, and other adequacy measures using the developed models. The main and interaction effects of the input variables on the predicted responses were also investigated. The optimization results showed that the reaction time of 3.23 h and the temperature of 70.74 °C were necessary to maximize oxirane content and % conversion in the epoxidation process.