Ecology, Environment and Conservation Paper

STUDY ON BIODIESEL PRODUCTION FROM DATURA INNOXIA AND DATURA METEL SEED OILS FROM WESTERN RAJASTHAN, INDIA

Seema Parveen, Rahul Sharma, Rajni Bais and Ram Lal Saini

Abstract

The challenges associated with conventional fossil fuels have fueled the quest for alternative energy sources. In modern times alternative fuels have identified as a prominent problem in many countries has resulted in efforts to reduce emissions, which are currently imposing a substantial threat to the environment. In this context biodiesel is one of the best alternatives to the existing fossil fuel which is not only renewable but also non-toxic and environmentally sustainable. The purpose of this research was to compare the fatty acid profile and biodiesel potentials of Datura innoxia and Datura metel seed oils to develop eco-friendly and cheap bio-fuel from non-edible seed oils.. Their triglycerides were physicochemically characterized during the experiment. The seed oils were extracted using a soxhlet apparatus and 400-60 0C petroleum ether as a solvent. The fatty acids methyl esters were prepared by base-catalyzed trans-esterification. The fatty acids compositions of both the seed oils were analyzed by GC-MS spectrophotometer. The fuel properties of both the Datura species biodiesel were compared with ASTM-D6751. The biodiesel obtained from D. innoxia and D. metel are found as a green alternative to diesel fuel due to its low cost, easy availability, and also do not cause any harmful effects on the environment.