Biodiesel from Zophobas morio larva oil: Process optimization and FAME characterization

Abstract

The advancement of biodiesel production emphasizes the finding of new, low-cost, and plentiful raw materials. Insects, as one of the most plentiful biological resources worldwide, could be potential candidates for biodiesel production. In this study, Zophobas morio (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) was evaluated as an insect feedstock, attempting to prove the feasibility of producing qualified biodiesel. The oil content in dried Z. morio larvae was found to be 33.80 wt %. Biodiesel from Z. morio larva oil was prepared by acid esterification followed by alkaline transesterification. The parameters of the reaction were optimized at 1.25 wt % potassium hydroxide catalyst, a 5:1 methanol to oil ratio, a reaction temperature of 50 °C, and a reaction time of 45 min. Under these conditions, the maximum fatty acid methyl ester yield was 92.35 wt %. The biodiesel obtained was verified to be in compliance with the ASTM D6751 standard. This study supports the use of Z. morio larva oil as a viable and valuable raw feedstock for biodiesel production and indicates the potential use of insects as feedstock for applications in energy production. © 2011 American Chemical Society.