Optimization of Biojet Fuel Production From Palm Kernel Fatty Acid Distillate Using Microwave-Assisted Esterification and Distillation

The global reliance on fossil fuels has contributed significantly to environmental challenges, including greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion, necessitating the search for renewable energy solutions. Biojet fuel has emerged as a viable alternative, with the potential to reduce carbon footprints and ensure sustainable energy for the aviation industry. This study explores the production of biojet fuel from palm kernel fatty acid distillate (KFAD), a cost-effective by-product of palm oil refining, using microwave-assisted esterification and fractional distillation. KFAD’s high free fatty acid content makes it an ideal feedstock for renewable fuel production. The research adopts the Box–Behnken experimental design to optimize key reaction parameters, including the ratio of KFAD to methanol, temperature, and reaction time. The optimal conditions based on the model-predicted maximum yield for esterification, namely 80°C reaction temperature, a 1:9 KFAD-to-methanol molar ratio, and 30 min reaction time, achieved a high fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) rate of 97.23%. The distillation process focused on refining FAME into hydrocarbons within the C8-C16 range, crucial for aviation fuel applications. Using microwave-assisted fractional distillation at 300°C, the final product had 79.38% of its hydrocarbons in the desired range. The study underscores the advantages of microwave-assisted processes, including enhanced energy efficiency, precision, and reduced thermal gradients. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of integrating microwave technologies into biojet fuel production, contributing to the global transition toward renewable energy sources for aviation.