Estudio del biodiesel obtenido a partir de aceite de Sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis Linneo).

Sacha inchi oil (Plukenetia Volubilis Linneo) is a vegetable oil that has awaken great interest in Biodiesel production due to its inherent low crystallization temperature capacity because of high content on PUFAs (Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids). Present research proposed the manufacture of biodiesel using the oil through transesterification reactions, with a 5:1 v/v ratio of potassium methoxide. A physicochemical characterization of crude oil, and the biodiesel obtained was carried out according to international standards, as well as NTC 5444 national regulation. Parallel, a 45 days evaluation of the biodiesel oxidative stability when in contact with copper foil was carried out. Different mixtures of conventional diesel were handled in order to evaluate changes in its attributes. Obtained Biodiesel reaction efficiency was 59,72 %, such measurement being within the standard regulations parameters. Regarding the biodiesel stability, evidence of degradation was found in contact with copper foil, after 28 days. Similarly, it was evidenced that the best mixture to use was B20 (20 % sacha inchi biodiesel + 80 % diesel), because it did not show significant alteration on diesel properties, which could mean a reduction of negative effects in diesel engines. This work provides information about the production of biodiesel of desirable quality, from Sacha inchi oil, with low impact on diesel engines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]