Physicochemical Properties of Squash (Cucurbita maxima L.) Seeds for Biodiesel Production

Document Types

Paper Presentation

School Name

Adamson University

Track or Strand

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)

Research Advisor (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)

Filler, June Ray, O.

Start Date

23-6-2025 3:30 PM

End Date

23-6-2025 5:00 PM

Zoom Link/ Room Assignment

Y303-HYFLEX/ https://zoom.us/j/9588991948?pwd=Xdj5iSyTNQaR2cpeRmhjVF6Q671isI.1&omn=94675616068 Meeting ID: 958 899 1948 Passcode: DLSU

Abstract/Executive Summary

This study explores the potential of squash (Cucurbita maxima L.) seeds, an underutilized agricultural waste product, as a feedstock for biodiesel production. The resulting biodiesel was compared to a conventional biodiesel from a waste soya bean cooking oil, focusing on the parameters of kinematic viscosity and flashpoint. A 1:10 (w/v) sample-to-solvent ratio was utilized through Soxhlet extraction, followed by rotary evaporation to maximize oil extraction. Subsequently, acid-base titration determines the oil’s Free Fatty Acid (FFA) content to be 2.08%, indicating its suitability for base-catalyzed transesterification. A stoichiometric minimum oil-to-methanol ratio of 1:3 and 1% w/w sodium methoxide as the catalyst were used for biodiesel synthesis. Results indicate an average kinematic viscosity (ASTM D445) of the C. maxima biodiesel of 4.34 mm²/s compared to the 4.7 mm²/s for conventional biodiesel. Flashpoint testing (ASTM D92) for C. maxima resulted in an average of 136.0°C, whereas the conventional biodiesel measures at 138.5°C. Statistical analysis using an independent sample t-test revealed a significant difference in kinematic viscosity, yet no significant difference in flashpoint was found when compared. The favorable kinematic viscosity of C. maxima biodiesel indicates an improved atomization and combustion behavior, which are crucial aspects of engine performance. This study demonstrates that C. maxima biodiesel meets the ASTM D6751 specifications for kinematic viscosity and flashpoint. Further evaluation of key properties—cetane number, cloud point, and pour point—is recommended to assess its full potential as a biodiesel feedstock.

Keywords

squash seed; biodiesel; kinematic viscosity; flashpoint; alternative feedstock

Research Theme (for Paper Presentation and Poster Presentation submissions only)

Sustainability, Environment, and Energy (SEE)

Statement of Originality

yes

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Jun 23rd, 3:30 PM Jun 23rd, 5:00 PM

Physicochemical Properties of Squash (Cucurbita maxima L.) Seeds for Biodiesel Production

This study explores the potential of squash (Cucurbita maxima L.) seeds, an underutilized agricultural waste product, as a feedstock for biodiesel production. The resulting biodiesel was compared to a conventional biodiesel from a waste soya bean cooking oil, focusing on the parameters of kinematic viscosity and flashpoint. A 1:10 (w/v) sample-to-solvent ratio was utilized through Soxhlet extraction, followed by rotary evaporation to maximize oil extraction. Subsequently, acid-base titration determines the oil’s Free Fatty Acid (FFA) content to be 2.08%, indicating its suitability for base-catalyzed transesterification. A stoichiometric minimum oil-to-methanol ratio of 1:3 and 1% w/w sodium methoxide as the catalyst were used for biodiesel synthesis. Results indicate an average kinematic viscosity (ASTM D445) of the C. maxima biodiesel of 4.34 mm²/s compared to the 4.7 mm²/s for conventional biodiesel. Flashpoint testing (ASTM D92) for C. maxima resulted in an average of 136.0°C, whereas the conventional biodiesel measures at 138.5°C. Statistical analysis using an independent sample t-test revealed a significant difference in kinematic viscosity, yet no significant difference in flashpoint was found when compared. The favorable kinematic viscosity of C. maxima biodiesel indicates an improved atomization and combustion behavior, which are crucial aspects of engine performance. This study demonstrates that C. maxima biodiesel meets the ASTM D6751 specifications for kinematic viscosity and flashpoint. Further evaluation of key properties—cetane number, cloud point, and pour point—is recommended to assess its full potential as a biodiesel feedstock.

https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/conf_shsrescon/2025/paper_see/4