Continuous-Flow Preparation of Biodiesel Using Microwave Heating

Abstract

The continuous-flow preparation of biodiesel using a commercially available scientific microwave apparatus offers a fast, easy route to this valuable biofuel. The methodology allows for the reaction to be run under atmospheric conditions and performed at flow rates of up to 7.2 L/min using a 4 L reaction vessel. It can be utilized with new or used vegetable oil with methanol and a 1:6 molar ratio of oil/alcohol. Energy consumption calculations suggest that the continuous-flow microwave methodology for the transesterification reaction is more energy-efficient than using a conventional heated apparatus.