Biodiesel Project

During the Spring 2010 semester, I have begun my work on this project by researching the effects of pre-washing the waste vegetable oil in the biodiesel process. It is proposed that a pre-wash will reduce the amount of methanol used in the process as well as reduce the amount of lab time required. I am studying methods that have been both successful and unsuccessful in an attempt to create and apply a successful wash step in our lab. This research enhances my skills by defining a problem, benchmarking against others’ attempts to solve this problem, and creating a solution of my own. By employing this solution in our laboratory, I will gain experience in real-life applications and see firsthand how well-developed research can be applied effectively to our lab’s operations. Should it be deemed that the pre-wash step is effective, I would like to start the first semester of the 2010-2011 academic year by implementing this step in our laboratory. I would then like to begin my research in developing a safe and efficient way to produce liquid soap out of the glycerin byproduct as part of an independent study. Once glycerin has been isolated I can begin the "saponification" reactions -- the process of converting glycerin to a liquid soap. I will perform tests of small batches of glycerin and potassium hydroxide (KOH), recording which methods of methanol removal and saponification are most effective. In addition to my scientific work, I will be studying the entrepreneurial aspects of business and economics and applying that knowledge to development and marketing of the soap product. Supplementing my laboratory work and research would be classes in business, economics and entrepreneurship. I would also like to explore ways in which to market the newly created soap product, including fostering a relationship with the University Bookstore. In cooperation with the Bookstore, I will develop a business plan to market the soap to the entire University community. I am extremely excited about the possibilities and potential benefits that could result from successfully converting a waste product of the biodiesel production process into a valuable ingredient for soap production. I am confident that this project would benefit the environment, help to ensure the long-term viability of the Biodiesel Project, reduce University expenses, and ultimately generate funds for future Biodiesel Team projects. I also believe that this project, which would combine scientific research and technological knowledge with product development, marketing, and other business skills, would promote precisely the entrepreneurial spirit and skills that the University encourages.