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A novel basic catalyst, KOH loaded on multi-walled carbonnanotubes (K-MWCNTs), was prepared by using an impregnationmethod and was used in the synthesis of biodiesel from canola oilin a batch laboratory scale reactor. Response surface methodology(RSM) in conjunction with the central composite design (CCD) was employedto statistically evaluate and optimize the biodiesel production process.Reaction time, alcohol to oil molar ratio, and catalyst content werechosen as the variables to optimize the biodiesel yield. The catalystwas characterized by scan electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction(XRD), and FTIR analysis. A biodiesel yield of 94.23 wt % was obtainedwith a reaction time of 3.34 h, alcohol to oil ratioof 13.56:1, catalyst content of 3.02 wt %, and reaction temperatureof 60 °C. The catalyst showed high performance at low operatingtemperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]