Characterization of Physical and Chemical Properties of Biodiesel Produced from Jatropha Curcas Seeds Oil Cultivated in Rwanda
Jean Ntaganda,
Andre Ndagijimana,
Oscar Benimana
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 2, April 2014
Pages:
8-12
Received:
5 March 2014
Accepted:
10 April 2014
Published:
20 April 2014
Abstract: A yield of 26.88% of seed oil was obtained from Jatrophacurcas cultivated in Rwanda. Within 2 hours of reaction, the methyl ester (Biodiesel) was produced at a yield of 85.3% from obtained oil through direct base-catalysed trans-esterification process using methanol and sodium hydroxide as alcohol and catalyst. The proportion of 0.6g of NaOH in 20mL of methanol with 100 mL of Jatropha oil was the best ratio for making the biodiesel. The biodiesel obtained had 85.03% of ester content, 0.878 and 7.891Centistokes (at 200C) of specific gravity and viscosity respectively. The other physico-chemical properties were also characterized.
Abstract: A yield of 26.88% of seed oil was obtained from Jatrophacurcas cultivated in Rwanda. Within 2 hours of reaction, the methyl ester (Biodiesel) was produced at a yield of 85.3% from obtained oil through direct base-catalysed trans-esterification process using methanol and sodium hydroxide as alcohol and catalyst. The proportion of 0.6g of NaOH in 20m...
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A Mathematical Model for Estimating the Life-Cycle Costs of Hydrogen-Powered Vehicles
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 2, April 2014
Pages:
13-17
Received:
28 April 2014
Accepted:
8 May 2014
Published:
20 May 2014
Abstract: This study provides a mathematical model that delivers fundamental data for developing a pricing strategy for fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). A mathematical model that transforms the life-cycle cost of a hydrogen vehicle into the corresponding gasoline vehicle is designed using cost-benefit analysis and life-cycle analysis. The FCEV obtains economic advantages when its life-cycle cost is less than or equal to the life-cycle cost of the corresponding gasoline vehicle. Because there is a trade-off between the FCEV’s price and the hydrogen fuel price, the results provide a number of price combinations that can be used for decision-making purposes. Using this model, car makers can develop a number of FCEV pricing scenarios, and policy makers can establish support systems to encourage the market entrance of FCEVs such as a subsidy for purchasing and producing FCEVs and/or hydrogen energy. This study delivers a number of combinations of FCEV-hydrogen fuel pricing combinations, comparing the life-cycle costs of conventional gasoline vehicles and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.
Abstract: This study provides a mathematical model that delivers fundamental data for developing a pricing strategy for fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). A mathematical model that transforms the life-cycle cost of a hydrogen vehicle into the corresponding gasoline vehicle is designed using cost-benefit analysis and life-cycle analysis. The FCEV obtains ec...
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