I am synthesizing biodiesel from castor oil over polystyrene nanoparticles as catalyst. Two different phases are separated in the separating funnel.but when i try to separate them, the upper layer (biodiesel )comes first mixed with glycerol not the lower layer (glycerol). Please tell the reason behind this. Is this due to FFA content present in the oil
You can learn further from these responses on a similar question;https://www.researchgate.net/post/Is-there-any-way-to-separate-glycerol-from-biodiesel-except-gravity-method-and-centrifugal-force
Thank you
Are you using a proper separating funnel. Kindly share the photographs so that I can help you
Respected sir
The image 1 shows two different layers of biodiesel and glycerol.
In image 2, washing of biodiesel is shown. Here, successfully the lower denser layer of water comes first followed by biodiesel. No diffficulty
In image 3, I could not identify is the biodiesel formed or is it the soap formation that took place. and there can be seen 3 layers.Please explain.
Thanks
I cannot see any glycerol in your photographs. It might have resulted in saponification. Take a drop of it and add another drop of water to it. Then rub it. If soap is there, then you can feel it. Please use gloves during this.
The upper layer in image 1 is not biodiesel? So now i need to functionalize my nano-catalyst. The attached file shows the functional groups present in the catalyst.
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