US EPA

1448442 

Journal Article 

Mixed Alkyl Esters from Cottonseed Oil: Improved Biodiesel Properties and Blends with Diesel Fuel 

Joshi, Hem; Moser, BR; Walker, T 

2012 

Yes 

Journal of the American Oil Chemists' Society
ISSN: 0003-021X
EISSN: 1558-9331 

89 

1 

145-153 

10.1007/s11746-011-1891-z 

WOS:000305289900016 

Transesterification of refined cottonseed oil (CSO) was
carried out with methanol, ethanol, 1-butanol, and various mixtures of these alcohols to produce
biodiesel. In the mixed alcohol transesterifications, formation of methyl esters was favored over
ethyl and butyl esters. The influence of ester head group on fuel properties was determined.
Specifically, cold flow properties, lubricity, and energy content improved in the order: CSO
butyl esters (CSBE, best) > ethyl esters (CSEE) > methyl esters (CSME). Higher kinematic
viscosities (KVs) as well as lower iodine values (IVs) and wear scars were observed with larger
ester head groups. Blends of CSME, CSEE and CSBE exhibited properties intermediate to the neat
esters. All ester samples were within the limits prescribed in ASTM D6751 and EN 14214 for cetane
number, acid value (AV), glycerol (free and total) content, sulfur, and phosphorous. Also
examined was the influence of blending alkyl esters with petrodiesel. All blends exhibited
improved cold flow properties versus unblended alkyl esters. Enhanced lubricity was observed
after blending. With increasing content of biodiesel, higher KVs and lower energy contents were
observed. Finally, all blends were within the limits specified in ASTM D975 and D7467 for AV, KV
and sulfur. 

Alkyl esters; Biodiesel; Cloud point; Cottonseed oil; Diesel fuel; Fatty acid methyl esters; Fuel properties; Kinematic viscosity; Pour point; Transesterification