Optimization and Characterization of Biodiesel Production from India Originated Bitter Apricot Kernel Oil

Abstract

With an objective to reduce dependence on imported crude oil in order to enhance the country’s energy security, an indicative target of 20% blending of biodiesel by 2017 has been proposed by the Government of India. The production of biodiesel in India has remained focused primarily on Jatropha oil. As dependence on the certain source may be undesirable in the long run, the biodiesel feed stock should be as diversified as possible. This research paper explores the potential of bitter Apricot kernel oil as biodiesel feedstock. Taguchi method was employed for the optimization of biodiesel production from bitter Apricot kernel oil. The biodiesel produced was tested for physicochemical properties as per ASTM D6751 standards and compared with those of Jatropha biodiesel.