Produção de biodiesel aditivado induzida por ultrassom e micro-ondas (2,45 GHz), via interesterificação na presença de líquidos iônicos e utilizando óleo de babaçu

Abstract

Biodiesel production has been growing in the market, as it is presented as a sustainable fuel alternative, since it is not derived from petroleum. In this context, interesterification studies have been developed with the aim of finding a more efficient option for biodiesel production. This technique is promising, since the products generated in the reaction include both biodiesel and triacetin, which acts as an essential additive for improving the fuel (Dall’Oglio, et al., 2024). Interesterification consists of using fatty acid esters present in oils, and in this process, other esters are used, such as ethyl, methyl and butyl acetate, which act simultaneously as solvents and reagents in the formation of new esters. Furthermore, for the reaction to occur more efficiently, the presence of an acid catalyst is necessary, which has the function of intensifying its speed. In addition, triacetin is included in the process planning, as it can be used in the formulation of biodiesel as an additive. This is due to its complete solubility, which allows it to be mixed homogeneously with diesel fuel, reducing the formation of residues and increasing the amount of fuel available for use (Casas, et al., 2011). At the same time, the application of electromagnetic waves, such as microwaves, in the induction of chemical processes has been considered more favorable and environmentally sustainable compared to conventional methods. This is due to the fact that this approach allows the acceleration of the reaction, while reducing energy costs. Microwave dielectric heating is a macroscopic effect of interaction of electromagnetic fields in the microwave region with continuous media characterized by their intrinsic dielectric properties (Dall’Oglio, et al., 2024). Finally, the use of ionic liquids stands out as a promising alternative to conventional organic solvents. These compounds have several applications focused on green chemistry, since they present advantageous characteristics, such as high thermal stability, high ionic conductivity, negligible vapor pressures and ease of regeneration from the media in which they are inserted (Kosmulski, et al., 2004).