Transesterificação da gordura suína via catálise alcalina para a produção de biodiesel

Abstract

The reduction of energy reserves and environmental concerns encourage alternative fuel sources, such as biodiesel, which is environmentally friendly and renewable. The general objective of this study is to develop a bench-scale biodiesel production process, thus contributing to the exploration of renewable sources and the valorization of agro-industrial by-products. To achieve this goal, an applied research approach was chosen, characterized by quantitative and experimental methodologies. The methods employed include the physicochemical characterization of pork fat, the performance of the transesterification reaction and the analysis of the biodiesel produced. The results obtained indicate that pork fat has a high acidity index, which requires attention in the transesterification process. However, the study demonstrated that, with the use of appropriate methodologies, it was possible to synthesize biodiesel with favorable physicochemical characteristics. The yield of methyl esters was satisfactory, indicating the viability of using pork fat as a raw material for biodiesel. Furthermore, the analysis revealed that the biodiesel produced meets the technical requirements established by ANP Resolution No. 920/2023. It is concluded that the production of biodiesel from pork fat is viable, and can contribute to energy sustainability and the valorization of agro-industrial by-products, aligning with the needs for cleaner and more sustainable energy sources in Brazil.