This project focuses on improving biodiesel production from algae phospholipids by characterizing, quantifying, and removing phosphorus in the synthesized fuel. Phospholipid L-α-phosphatidylcholine was converted to fatty acid methyl ester biodiesel over a heterogeneous metal oxide catalyst. Products were characterized by GC/MS, NMR, and IR Spectroscopy to characterize the resultant FAMEs as well as detect the presence of phosphorus. Various reaction conditions were tested to reduce the presence of phosphorus in the biodiesel layer. Phosphorus concentration was determined by ICP-OES. From this analysis, it was determined that the majority of the phosphorus containing compounds remains within the unreacted methanol, limiting the amount of phosphorus in the biodiesel. Removal of the remaining phosphorus from the biodiesel with high surface area carbon was investigated.<br/> <br/>

Quantification and removal of phosphorus from algal derived biodiesel

2019 Spring National Meeting

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