Biodiesel Reactor Modifications

The Future Fueler’s project has the goal of developing safer and more efficient ways to create biodiesel on the University of Idaho campus.

Design Review
We're shooting to have our design review either

Tuesday November 17 3:30-4:30 Thursday November 19 3:30-4:30

Problem Definition
The University of Idaho currently uses a pilot-scale biodiesel reactor for research and production of biodiesel. Our objective is to shorten the time for reaction, while adhering to any safety concerns. To do this, we will need to find an effective way to heat the reactants from room temperature to 60 degrees Celsius, create a system for introducing the reactants to the reactor, and condense off the excess methanol that is present. In order to accomplish this systems compatible with the biodiesel will need to be safely implemented.

Background
As fuel prices rise, the United States continually consumes fuel at an astronomical rate. We are presented with a problem because our main fuel sources are non renewable. The Biological and Agricultural Engineering Department at the University of Idaho has been doing research on biodiesel for many years now as well as supplying biofuel for cars on campus. They are continuously improving and this years team of students are to be implementing faster and more safe ways to operate our current biodiesel reactor.

Deliverables
The Future Fueler’s must be capable of accomplishing a series of tasks including:


 * Heating 20°C-60°C
 * Adding Pumps for Oil, Sodium Methylate, and Methanol
 * A Condensing System for Excess Methanol

Project Learning
Biodiesel is made through a chemical reaction where a catalyst reacts lipids with alcohol. This Process requires continuous mixing and heat. This process also has a by product of glycerin which can be reused in other applications including but not limited to in cosmetic, medical and household. In order to minimize the "soap" (a product of water being present in the system) production in this production the team of Biodiesel Scientist at the University of Idaho have decided to use Sodium methyl-ate as the catalyst, methanol as the alcohol and waste vegetable oil as the lipid.