<br/>Biocatalysts offer a sustainable and cost-effective alternative in the synthesis of biodiesel. The goal of this research project was to improve the traditional base-catalyzed synthesis of biodiesel by implementing principles of green chemistry found in the literature. Novozyme 435, a commercially available immobilized lipase, was substituted as a biocatalyst for sodium hydroxide. The benefits of using Novozyme 435 are that it can be recycled and reused. Ethanol was used as the solvent to replace methanol which reduced toxicity. The students characterized their biodiesel using IR spectroscopy and found that the outcome is effectively the same for base-catalyzed and biocatalyzed biodiesel reactions. The students were also able to isolate and recycle the Novozyme 435 for future use. In a formal lab report, students compared the biocatalyzed synthesis to the traditional method and discussed green chemistry principles. Student data and writing assessments that support the research will be presented.

Using a biocatalyst as a green chemistry alternative in a first-year biodiesel synthesis experiment

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