Methanolysis of Fluted Pumpkin seed (<i>Telfaria occidentalis</i>) oil

This work investigates the production of biodiesel using solvent extracted pumpkin seeds oil at 6:1 methanol to oil molar ratio in the presence of sodium hydroxide catalyst for 60 minutes. The oil extraction was achieved with the aid of Soxhlet extractor using n-hexane as solvent. The process for the production of biodiesel via an NaOH-catalyzed method comprised of glycerol separation and purification. Pumpkin seeds were examined for proximate analysis and found to contain; moisture 28.10 %, crude proteins 14.2 %, fat content 12.58 %, crude fiber 18.4 %, ash content 2.97 % respectively. Results of physicochemical Analyses carried out on the biodiesel are as follows: pH 6.8, Fire Point 130 °C, Pour Point 10 °C, Viscosity: 5.21 mm²/s, Acid Value 4.18 mg KOH/g, iodine value 72 g I2/100g, Peroxide Value 3.8 meq O2/kg, Saponification Value 184 mg KOH/g. These results provide a comprehensive overview of the physical and chemical properties of biodiesel synthesized from pumpkin seed oil. In the FTIR spectrum of pumpkin seed oil biodiesel, the absorption band or frequency from 1766.30 cm-1 shows the presence of five membered ring aldehyde and much more. This study not only contributes to the diversification of biodiesel feedstock but also adds value to fluted pumpkin seeds, which are often underutilized. The findings highlight the feasibility of producing high-quality biodiesel from fluted pumpkin seed oil through methanolysis, supporting the ongoing efforts towards sustainable energy solutions and the reduction of carbon emissions.