Comparing the Quality of Jatropha Seed Oil Biodiesel Produced Using Mechanical and Solvent Extraction Process

This research investigates the production of biodiesel from Jatropha caucus seeds using two distinct extraction methods: mechanical and solvent-based. The aim is to compare the quality of biodiesel obtained through these processes. The study comprises three main objectives: oil extraction from Jatropha seeds using hexane as a solvent and mechanical extraction, transesterification to produce biodiesel using potassium methoxide as a catalyst, and a comparative analysis of the biofuel properties obtained from each process. The experimental design involved the collection of Jatropha seeds and subsequent drying, washing, and sun-drying processes. Results indicated significant differences between the properties of biodiesel and raw oil obtained through different methods. Biodiesel from mechanical extraction exhibited a higher density and flash point than solvent-extracted biodiesel, which displayed superior low-temperature properties. FTIR and GCMS analyses revealed distinct functional group patterns and fatty acid compositions, emphasizing the impact of extraction methods on molecular structures. In conclusion, the comparative analysis reveals that the choice of extraction method significantly influences the properties of Jatropha seed oil biodiesel. Mechanical extraction yields biodiesel with favourable low-temperature properties, while solvent extraction introduces a more diverse fatty acid composition.