PRODUCTION OF GREEN DIESEL FROM YEMENI CRUDE SESAME SEED OIL VIA BASE-CATALYZED HOMOGENEOUS TRANSESTERIFICATION

This study focuses on producing biodiesel from sesame seed oil, a popular alternative fuel due to its economic value and versatility. Analysis was done on the physical and chemical characteristics of the oils, and it underwent KOH-catalyzed transesterification, produce biodiesel with a high ester content of 96.52%. The biodiesel met ASTM D6751 standards, with a flash point of 143°C, enhancing safety during handling and transport. Pour points are -14°C, cloud point -3.2°C, cetane number 50.32, the viscosity at 40 and 100°C was 4.55 cSt and 2.65 cSt, respectively, density of 876 kg/m3, and specific gravity of 0.67 kg/m3, indicating differences from conventional diesel that may affect low-temperature performance, appearance, injection, nd engine efficiency. Separation and analysis of compounds by mass-to-radiation ratio and infrared spectroscopy were used to obtain the absorption of functional groups in biodiesel to confirm the structure of biodiesel, and sesame seed oil shows promise as a source of biodiesel