Preparation and application of heterogeneous catalyst based on KOH impregnated activated carbon from rubber seed kernel for biodiesel synthesis

Abstract

Abstract Research to explore the potential of rubber seeds kernel as a carbon source for the preparation of heterogeneous catalysts has been carried out. This study aimed to characterize rubber seed kernel carbon, impregnate it with KOH, and apply it as a heterogeneous catalyst in biodiesel synthesis. In this research, rubber seed kernel was powdered then carbonized in a furnace for 4 h at 500°C, followed by activation with HCl for 1 h and dried. The resulting activated carbon was impregnated with KOH solution for 3 h at 80°C. After pre-drying, it was calcined at 500°C for 3 h. The rubber seed kernel powder, activated carbon, and KOH impregnated carbon were characterized using SEM-EDX and FTIR. KOH impregnated carbon was used as a heterogeneous catalyst in coconut oil transesterification for biodiesel synthesis. The parameters studied were catalyst load (2 - 4%) and reaction temperature (55 - 65°C). Molar ratio of oil to methanol and time were set at 1:9 and 2 h, respectively. The highest yield (96.43%) was obtained at 3% catalyst load and reaction temperature of 60°C.