Application of response surface methodology for optimizing transesterification of Moringa oleifera oil: biodiesel production.

Abstract Response surface methodology (RSM), with central composite rotatable design (CCRD), was used to explore optimum conditions for the transesterification of Moringa oleifera oil. Effects of four variables, reaction temperature (25–65 °C), reaction time (20–90 min), methanol/oil molar ratio (3:1–12:1) and catalyst concentration (0.25–1.25 wt.% KOH) were appraised. The quadratic term of methanol/oil molar ratio, catalyst concentration and reaction time while the interaction terms of methanol/oil molar ratio with reaction temperature and catalyst concentration, reaction time with catalyst concentration exhibited significant effects on the yield of Moringa oil methyl esters (MOMEs)/biodiesel, p  p