LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-A professor of the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Ilorin, Temitope Odetoye, has successfully produced biodiesel using chicken eggshell-derived heterogeneous catalysts.
Odetoye unveiled this breakthrough during the university’s 253rd Inaugural Lecture in Ilorin.
She said, “The trans esterification experiment was based on a two-factor, three-level central composite design, while catalyst concentration and reaction time were considered the factors which had significant effects on the yield of biodiesel.”
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Odetoye highlighted that the biodiesel yield indicated eggshells as a cost-effective catalyst for production.
She emphasised how utilizing eggshells could enhance poultry production and reduce waste.
Additionally, she underscored biodiesel as a sustainable fuel alternative but acknowledged its higher production cost compared to fossil fuels.
Odetoye defined biofuel as fuel derived from biomass. “Biofuel is synonymous with biocrude, biodiesel, biooil, biogas, bioethanol, biosyngas and bioslurry fyels,” she said.
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The chemical engineering expert highlighted Nigeria’s abundant lignocellulosic biomass residues, emphasizing the need for eco-friendly utilization. She warned against the environmental pollution caused by open burning of biomass residues, particularly during dry seasons
Odetoye mentioned that using biomass waste pyrolysis could turn waste into wealth, offering opportunities for skilled engineers and technicians. Additionally, she noted it would help clean the environment.