Optimization of Biodiesel Production from Fatty Residues of Cattle from Slaughterhouses

This study optimizes biodiesel production from bovine fatty residues using a transesterification reaction with methanol and NaOH. A Box-Behnken response surface methodology is used to identify optimal process conditions (7.5:1 molar ratio, 1% catalyst, 45 min, 70˚C), which achieved a 95% yield. The resulting biodiesel’s physicochemical properties are characterized and compared against commercial diesel and ASTM standards to assess its viability as an alternative fuel. The Biodiesel obtained is characterized and the following property values are obtained: Density 0.875 g/cm3 at 40˚C; Water content (mg/kg): 0.048; Acid number (mg KOH/g): 0.34 ± 0.23; Saponification number (mg KOH/g): 161.28 ± 7.93; Iodine number (gI2/100 g): 28.55 ± 6.345; Peroxide number (meq O2/kg): 591.86 ± 0.19; Cetane number 59.45 (meq/kg), Fire point ˚C: 208; Pour point: −10; Smoke point 4˚C; Flash point: 198˚C; Viscosity at 40˚C: 4.2 mm2/s; Viscosity at 100˚C: 1.8 mm2/s.