| Homogenous and heterogeneous catalysts were tested with the purpose of application in small scale plants at mild operating conditions. The optimum reaction conditions (catalyst concentration, methanol-to-oil molar ratio, and temperature) for a Metal Alkoxide catalyst, an Organic Base and a Metal Oxide were determined. The Metal Oxide produced 3-4% more methyl esters than the other catalysts, achieving a yield of 94.6%. However, it required approximately 10 times the amount of catalyst required for the others. Also, the performance of the Metal Oxide catalyst in combination with the Organic Base was tested at 90°C and 6: I methanol-to-oil molar ratio. The Organic Base performance was hindered at these conditions. Finally, animal shell waste was tested with the Metal Oxide and Organic Base catalysts. In the Organic Base combinations, both shells increased the yield of the reaction by 3-6%. The Animal Shell 2 was a good substitute for both catalysts. |
