A Comparative analysis of Bitaog (Calophyllum inophyllum) oil from raw and matured seeds as potential feedstock for biodiesel production / Julliene S. Repollo, Harrold Taylan

UTHESIS (Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering)

Bibliography: leaves 44-48

The study investigates the viability of Calophyllum inophyllum (Bitaog) seeds as a biodiesel feedstock, focusing on the comparative efficiency of raw versus matured seeds. This research addresses the critical need for alternative biodiesel sources, considering the drawbacks associated with edible oil-based biodiesel, such as food supply depletion and economic imbalances. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the oil yield and quality of Bitaog seeds and determine the most efficient extraction method for potential biodiesel production. The research employed mechanical and chemical extraction techniques on both raw and matured Bitaog seeds. Mechanical pressing was performed at controlled temperatures (160°C, 180°C, and 200°C) while chemical extraction utilized a Soxhlet apparatus with acetone as the solvent. Oil yield, density, viscosity, absorbance, pH value and acid value were assessed in this study. Results indicated that there is no difference in oil yield with varying temperatures of both raw and matured under mechanical extraction methods while chemical extraction has a low oil yield of both raw and matured. Furthermore, the oil extracted displayed physical and chemical properties, aligned with biodiesel standards. The study concludes that Bitaog seeds are a promising feedstock for biodiesel production, offering a sustainable alternative to edible oil sources. The findings suggest that adopting advanced extraction technologies such as oil extraction can improve oil recovery and quality, enhancing the economic viability of Bitaog-based biodiesel. Recommendations for future research include exploring large-scale applications and optimizing extraction processes to further increase efficiency and reduce costs.