Use of amine-based ionic liquids as a catalyst in the transesterification reaction of mixtures composed of andiroba (Carapa guianensis Aublet) and copaíba (Copaifera Langsdorffii) oils

• Grant number: 24/14835-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: October 01, 2024
• End date: September 30, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Chemical Engineering - Chemical Technology
• Principal Investigator: Daniela Helena Pelegrine Guimarães
• Grantee: João Vitor Leão Moreira
• Host Institution: Escola de Engenharia de Lorena (EEL). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Lorena , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The growing global demand for energy has stimulated the production of biodiesel, a renewable fuel that reduces polluting gas emissions due to its organic origin. In this context, andiroba and copaiba are viable for use as raw materials in transesterification reactions due to the presence of triglycerides in their oils, which can be converted into biodiesel. These processes offer a sustainable alternative for the production of biofuels, taking advantage of renewable natural resources from the Amazon region. Regarding the catalyst for the transesterification reaction, recent research shows that amine-based ionic liquids (ILs) are more advantageous options, due to lower costs and the simplicity of the synthesis process. The objective of this project is to synthesize the ionic liquid (IL) [N4,4,4,4][Arginine]. After synthesis, the IL will be characterized in relation to kinematic viscosity, refractive index and its molecular structure through proton nuclear resonance (NMR). Next, the IL will be used as a catalyst in methyl transesterification reactions, and the effects of the oil/methanol molar ratios (1:20 and 1:40) and the raw material (andiroba and copaiba) on the percentage of conversion will be evaluated. for biodiesel. The catalytic efficiency of the synthesized IL will be compared with the conversion capacity of triglycerides in reactions catalyzed by [Bmim][OH] (results from projects 2022/11043-1 and 2023/18286-0) and by conventional catalysts (KOH or H2SO4, depending on the acidity of the raw material). The biodiesel obtained will be analyzed to determine the acid number, iodine content, glycerin, moisture content, sulfur, kinematic viscosity and the average composition of fatty acid esters. Subsequently, the biodiesel will be subjected to physical and chemical analysis.