Design, construction, and evaluation of an oscillatory–liquid-phase plasma reactor for biodiesel production from sunflower oil

The use of new intensification technologies for continuous biodiesel production will facilitate the development of this renewable fuel. The aim of this research is to develop an oscillatory–liquid phase plasma reactor for the production of biodiesel from sunflower oil. Experimental tests were conducted using the independent variables of methanol-to-oil molar ratio, catalyst level, applied voltage, and flow rate (Q). Response surface methodology was used to analyze and optimize the experimental results. The results showed that the optimal conversion efficiency of 91.31% can be continuously achieved at the methanol to oil molar ratio (7.24), catalyst level (0.85 wt%), applied voltage (19.33 kV), and Q (3.11 mL s⁻¹). The produced biodiesel complies with EN 14214 standards, making it a suitable alternative to diesel fuel. Considering the high efficiency, continuous production, reduced reagent consumption, and low power consumption, this new method can be introduced as sustainable solution in the biodiesel production industry.