VALORIZATION OF USED COOKING OIL FOR INSECT-REPELLING CANDLE PRODUCTION ENRICHED WITH LEMONGRASS

Improper disposal of used cooking oil contributes to environmental issues such as water pollution, clogged drains, and fire hazards. This study presents a sustainable solution by formulating an insect-repellent candle using recycled cooking oil and lemongrass extract. The candle was produced by blending filtered used oil with soy wax, crayon for colouring, and lemongrass essence. The mixture was poured into containers and allowed to cool at room temperature. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was employed to analyse the chemical composition of the final product. The FTIR spectrum revealed absorption peaks at 2914.3 cm⁻¹ and 2847.3 cm⁻¹, indicating the presence of saturated fatty acids from both soy wax and cooking oil. A distinct peak at 1697.8 cm⁻¹ confirmed the presence of C=O stretching vibrations, associated with ester and aldehyde functional groups, validating the successful incorporation of lemongrass oil and oxidation products. The candle not only retained the aromatic properties of lemongrass but also met safety and functionality expectations. The findings support the viability of transforming household waste into value-added products, offering an eco-friendly alternative to chemical insect repellents while promoting environmental sustainability.