A study of the precipitation of cerium oxide synthesized from rare earth sources used as the catalyst for biodiesel production

Abstract This work aimed to study the preparation of cerium oxide (CeO 2 ) used as catalyst for biodiesel production from palm oil. The precipitation method was in synthesis. effects oxalic concentrations and stirring rates process were investigated. Oxalic acid added into (Ce) ethylenediaminetetraacetic solution form Ce oxalate before calcined obtain CeO . results showed that slightly affect morphology However, these parameters considerably amount basic sites basicity plays main role catalyzing transesterification reaction production. When oil under operating conditions using a 5% catalyst, methanol-to-oil molar ratio 30:1, temperature 150°C, 13.8 bars, 3-h time, obtained 3% concentration 400 rpm provided highest %FAME range 93.9–94.2% since it had higher basicity. In addition, decrease surface area after use less severe than due deactivation.