Work

Hydrodynamic Cavitation in Shockwave-Power-Reactor-Assisted Biodiesel Production in Continuous from Soybean and Waste Cooking Oil

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The transesterification process for biodiesel production is constrained by high thermal input, prolonged residence time, and intensive mechanical agitation. This study investigates process intensification via hydrodynamic cavitation using a custom-built Shockwave Power Reactor (SPR), enabling continuous biodiesel synthesis from soybean and used cooking oils. A statistically designed experimental matrix was applied to evaluate the reactor’s transient–stable thermal regime and the influence of operational parameters: rotor speed (1700–3415 rpm), volumetric flow rate (60–105 mL/min), methanol-to-oil molar ratio (6:1 to 12:1), and alkali catalyst type (NaOH or KOH). For benchmarking, conventional alkaline transesterification was optimized. The FAME yields from the SPR system exceeded 96.5% and complied with EN14103 standards. Specific energy analysis showed that cavitation-enhanced transesterification reduced energy consumption and peak temperature compared to traditional methods. The SPR’s capacity to induce high shear and localized turbulence under controlled cavitation offers a promising pathway for low-energy, scalable biodiesel production.

Source: Energies

DOI: 10.3390/en18112761

Authors: James R. Vera-Rozo, Edison A. Caicedo-Peñaranda, José M. Riesco-Avila

Institutions: University of Pamplona, Universidad de Guanajuato

Language: English

Topic: Biodiesel Production and Applications

Subfield: Biomedical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Responsible consumption and production, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137