Process Optimization and Environmental Analysis of Ultrasound-Assisted Biodiesel Production from Pangasius Fat Using CoFe 2 O 4 Catalyst.

This study optimized biodiesel synthesis from Pangasius fat using a Box-Behnken experimental design. The manipulation of key variables included the CoFe 2 O 4 catalyst dosage, the methanol-to-fat molar ratio, and the ultrasonic wave amplitude. We determined optimal conditions for biodiesel synthesis through the central runs, resulting in a remarkable 96.5% yield. The produced biodiesel exhibited diverse fatty acid compositions and met specifications for viscosity, specific gravity, acid value, and iodine value. Furthermore, we conducted a comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) to shed light on the environmental implications of the process. The LCA revealed a minimal global warming potential of 0.21 kg CO 2 per kg of biodiesel produced, demonstrating the environmental viability of the entire process. These significant findings highlight the promising potential of using Pangasius fat as a sustainable feedstock for biodiesel production. Additionally, they provide valuable insights into developing ecologically friendly energy sources.