Synthesis and Characterization of Hydrocarbon Fuels from Cassava Seed Oil using an Indigenous Salt Catalyst

Abstract

Abstract: - Hydrocarbon fuels from cassava seeds oil can supplement fossil fuels hence reducing over-reliance on nonrenewable energy sources. This research put emphasis on the extraction of cassava seeds oil from cassava seeds then converting the synthesized oil into hydrocarbon fuels using indigenous salt catalyst. Samples were extracted by soxhlet extraction method using petroleum ether. The samples were then characterized for physical-chemical parameters, functional groups, bio-metal concentrations, acid and free fatty acid values, saponification value and iodine values. Antifungal analysis was conducted using C. albicans species. The obtained oil was then esterified using the indigenous salts and the products characterized against a control sample. The percent extraction yields obtained using the solvent petroleum ether was 43.17±0.00%. The oil was pale yellow, odorless and liquid at room temperature with no pH value. The oil had very low electrical conductivity and specific gravity values. The samples had high acid and free fatty acid values, moderate saponification value (236.32±0.10mgOH) and low iodine value (83.50±2.00wij). The anti-fungal inhibitions were moderate. The samples had high iron and zinc concentrations. During trans-esterification process, it was observed that carboxylic -OH, acetylenic and amide peaks were removed. Consequently, sp3 -CH peaks intensified illustrating more saturation in the hydrocarbons formed. The conversion of the oil using the indigenous salts produced combustible gases and liquid. In conclusion, use of the indigenous salt aided in fast production of quality fuels from cassava oil. Key words: Cassava seeds oil, fuel, indigenous salt