Biodiesel Production from Tigernut (Cyperus esculentus) Oil and Characterization of its Blend with Petro-diesel

This study was carried out to assess the fuel quality of biodiesel produced from tigernut (Cyperus esculentus) oil and its blends with petro- diesel. The oil was extracted from the tigernut by solvent extraction method using petroleum ether. The oil was trans-esterified using potassium methoxide at the temperature of 60ºC for 60 min at a catalyst concentration of 0.65% and under a constant stirring speed. The crude biodiesel obtained was purified by washing with water and subsequently dried in an oven. The biodiesel was again blended with petro- diesel to obtain various blends of B10, B20, B30 and B40. Oil and biodiesel yields were assessed while physicochemical analysis of the oil, biodiesel and blends were carried out using standard methods for physicochemical parameters including flash point, cloud point and pour point. Results obtained showed that the oil yield from the feedstock was 16%, while the biodiesel yield was 82%. The high and moderate flash points of the biodiesel and blends ranged between 90-178ºC, their cloud points ranged between 6.5-13ºC while their pour points ranged between -3-(-10)ºC. General results of the blends showed that B10 and B20 had performance results closer to petro-diesel and ASTM standards. Therefore, the blends, in addition to being good for biodiesel engines, would also be suited for engines not specifically designed for biodiesel use.