KI-impregnated calcined oyster shells were tested as solid base
catalysts in transesterification of soybean oil in batch reactor systems.
The catalyst surface was composed of portlandite and potassium
iodide and the surface area increased 31-fold as a result of
calcination and impregnation. The catalyst showed the highest activity for transesterification at 50 C, 400 rpm, 10:1 methanol ratio.
However the data suggested that the KI loading (1–
9 mmol g1) was excessive. Hence additional studies investigating
lower KI loading (0–1 mmol g1) are suggested to separate out the
effect of KI. Additionally, the reusability of the catalyst was moderate
and future studies focusing on regeneration and enhancing the
reusability of the catalyst are recommended.