Sustainable Production and First‐Principles Evaluation of Kapok Oil Methyl Esters as an Alternative Diesel Fuel

ABSTRACT This study proposes the acid‐catalyzed pretreatment followed by alkaline‐catalyzed transesterification technique for the successful production and characterization of kapok oil methyl ester (biodiesel), and demonstrates its potential as a viable feedstock due to its high free fatty acid (FFA) content. The entire procedure was systematically monitored to determine the optimum conditions for biodiesel production. The biodiesel yield depends on the type of alcohol used, the molar ratio of alcohol to oil, the type and concentration of catalyst, reaction time, and the water content of the oils and fats. The viscosity of kapok methyl ester (KME) was reduced by approximately 85% compared to raw kapok seed oil. The flash and fire points of KME are higher than those of conventional diesel fuel. Additionally, the calorific value, cetane number, and other fuel properties of KME are comparable to those of diesel. The oxidative stability of KME was found to be 12.3 h, which is higher than the specified values in ASTM D6751. This indicates greater resistance to oxidation, improved storage stability, longer shelf life, and a lower risk of deposit formation. These results validate kapok seed oil as a sustainable, nonedible, and affordable feedstock for the generation of biodiesel. Further research on engine performance, emission profiles, and long‐term stability is suggested in order to confirm KME's viability for practical energy applications. It has been established that the KME satisfies the fuel characteristics requirements, making it a highly appropriate substitute for diesel.