The process of making biodiesel involves transesterification of fatty acid triglycerides with methanol using potassium hydroxide as catalyst. We have found that this �simple� reaction is only one small part of a complex, interrelated, and inefficient overall process. We have integrated the 12 Principles of Green Chemistry as a framework for the design of undergraduate research projects aimed at increasing the efficiency of this process. We will discuss project design and application of green chemistry principles to employ less hazardous reagents, improved atom economy, reduced water usage, and optimization of product analysis. Our goal is to employ sustainable molecular design in how we produce biodiesel to eliminate any risk of hazardous chemicals released to the environment or unintended human exposure, and certifying our process so that other institutions can adopt our work. This research was supported by the Bridgewater State University Adrian Tinsley Program and Center for Sustainability.

Applying green chemistry principles in undergraduate research: Efficiency of biodiesel production from waste vegetable oil

247th National Meeting (2014)

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