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Abstract
This study is confined to optimization of biodiesel production from a non-edible oil yielding plant milk thistle (Silybum marianum) of Mediterranean origin is reported as a new source used as raw material for biodiesel production. This study explains optimization analysis of biodiesel production through base catalyzed transesterification. Effects of four different variables includes the reactant ratio, catalyst concentration, reaction temperature and time were studied. It is found that 80% fatty acids were converted into fatty acid methyl esters within 75 min at 60°C by using 5:1 molar ratio (methanol to oil). The study stated that the order of significant factors effecting biodiesel yield was catalyst concentration > reaction time > reaction temperature > methanol to oil ratio. The fuel properties of milk thistle FAMEs including color, density, kinematic viscosity, sulfur content, total acid number, flash point, pour point, distillation, cloud point, calorific value, and cetane index were determined and compared with ASTM standards.