Transesterification is the process of converting the oil produced from vegetables into biodiesel. The process is less complex and it is quite easy. Transesterification is a chemical based production of biodiesel from jatropha oil.
In this process a complex fatty acids like triglyceride molecule is taken and it is neutralized. The glycerin is removed and an alcohol ester is created. This process is completed when methanol is mixed with sodium hydroxide. This result in the production of sodium methoxide which is then mixed with oil produced from the jatropha seeds. When the mixture settles glycerin is left at the bottom and the biodiesel (methyl esters) remains on the top. This methyl ester is washed and then filtered.