Production and Characterization of Biodiesel from Brebra (M. ferruginea) Seed Non-edible Oil

Millettia ferruginea is a leguminous tree endemic to Ethiopia. Although brebra tree produces large quantities of seeds, currently the seed application is limited. The objective of this study was to produce standard biodiesel from brebra oil. Brebra seed contained 48.5±0.99% oil. As analysis of fatty acid composition showed, 75% of the total fatty acid is accounted for by oleic acid (30.7%) and linoleic acid (44.3%). Refined oil obtained after removal of the hexane was used for biodiesel production using KOH as a catalyst. The resulting biodiesel was pure and showed excellent physical and chemical properties meeting international standards. Briefly, the specific gravity, viscosity, acid value, pH value, saponification value and iodine value of brebra biodiesel were within specification of ASTM and EN. From the total refined oil, 81.6% and 17.18% biodiesel and glycerol was recovered, respectively. Therefore, brebra seed oil has potential application for biodiesel and glycerol production.