Manufacturing of a Smaller Solar Biodiesel Manufacturing Unit

Abstract

Biodiesel is an attractive renewable resource replacement for depleting energy sources since it is produced mainly from vegetable oils and animal fats. The synthesis of biodiesel involves heating a waste vegetable oil with methanol (or ethanol) under strongly basic conditions. Solar irradiation as the heat source for the chemical reaction is an attractive renewable energy source that can be used almost anywhere. The ultimate goal of this project is to incorporate an effective way for minimizing the amount of electricity needed to drive chemical reactions by using a solar panel to power charge a car battery which runs the system. In this study, we will incorporated parts on an old design, while using smaller individual parts for easier use. With our design, less heat will be required so it will produce an end result faster than the older models. While the tanks will be smaller, it will still produce the same amount of biodiesel oil per square meter of solar. Smaller batches take less time allowing for multiple runs. This design will also include a cleaning function to keep the tubing clear and ready to use. This will be done by using a tank of alcohol, which with the Arduino programmed, will automatically run through the system after making biodiesel. By utilizing water sensors and other sensors, this will allow for an automatic system; allowing for less manual production.