This project focuses on improving biofuel production from algae. We made a model mixture of polar phospholipids and nonpolar triglycerides that could successfully be converted into biofuel in a single reaction. A mixture of triglycerides and L-α-phosphatidylcholine was reacted over metal oxide catalysts and analyzed by GC/MS, NMR, and IR. Comparison of FAMEs in the mixture and pure phospholipid are reported. Focus was placed on analyzing the synthesis of biofuel from the phospholipid L-α-phosphatidylcholine in order to follow the presence of the polar phosphorus head throughout the reaction. The location of the phosphorus head throughout the reaction remains inconclusive, and future analysis using <sup>31</sup>Phosphorus NMR could prove beneficial.<br/>

Total conversion of mixed algae lipids to biofuels over heterogeneous catalysts

253rd National Meeting (2017)

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