The synthesis of Lewis acid ZrO2 nanoparticles and their applications in phospholipid adsorption from Jatropha oil used for biofuel

Abstract: ZrO2 nanoparticles were successfully fabricated via a facile hydrothermal process. The diameter and surface area of the as-prepared ZrO2 nanoparticles were approximately 5–10nm and 102m2/g, respectively. For the first time, Zr atoms with partial positive charges in a Lewis acid ZrO2 nanoparticle adsorbent were used for the adsorption of negatively charged phospholipids from Jatropha oil. The capacity for phospholipid adsorption using the ZrO2 nanoparticles was better than that of commercial ZrO2 powder due to the larger surface area of the ZrO2 nanoparticles. Phospholipid removal makes Jatropha oil a potential oil for biofuel applications. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]