Synthesis and characterization cobalt ferrite and evaluation of performance in the transesterification methyl two lipid sources

The cottonseed and soybean oils are two lipid matrices that can be used to obtain biodiesel through the use of homogeneous catalysts, which increase operating costs. The use of heterogeneous catalysts can remedy this problem. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the use of heterogeneous catalyst CoFe₂O₄ synthesized by combustion reaction in the transesterification of methyl cottonseed oil, soybean and their mixtures (1:1). The sample was characterized by XRD and textural analysis by nitrogen adsorption. The catalytic tests were conducted at 200 deg C, molar ratio of oil:ethanol 1:15, 2% of catalyst and 3 hours. The results show that the synthesis has been effective in obtaining the phase CoFe2O4 with surface area of 23.75 m² g^-1. Tests for transesterification of methyl cottonseed oil, soybean and their blends indicated that the material under study resulted conversions above 50%. The highest efficiency was obtained for the reaction using the mixture of oils. (author)