Enhancing biodiesel yield and purification with a recently developed centrifuge machine: A response surface methodology approach

Abstract

Biodiesel production processes, such as gravity settling, have limitations in terms of biodiesel yield, purification efficiency, operating time in the separation process, and more extensive equipment. Therefore, this study has focused on using a recently developed centrifuge machine for biodiesel separation to address these challenges due to its compact design, high efficiency, and simplicity. Additionally, this study aimed to optimize the separation efficiency of glycerol from biodiesel using a centrifuge machine, employing response surface methodology (RSM) with central composite design (CCD). The optimum conditions for separating glycerol from biodiesel via centrifuge machine are a rotation speed of 1800 rpm, a mixture flow rate of 192.25 ml/min, and a temperature of 55 °C, respectively. In optimum conditions, 94.52% separation efficiency was achieved. Biodiesel production can be improved, leading to higher yields and greater purity. The utilization of RSM proved valuable in determining the optimum conditions for separation. Furthermore, the machine successfully separated the biodiesel to meet ASTM D6751 and EN 14,214 standards. The results highlight the potential of the centrifuge machine for efficient and reliable biodiesel production, contributing to the advancement of the biodiesel industry.