SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF BIOETHANOL FROM SPONGE GOURD
Abstract
ABSTRACT
This study investigates the production of bioethanol from African Luffa cylindrica (sponge gourd), an agricultural waste. The process involved several steps, including sample collection, pretreatment with H2SO4, fermentation using Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and distillation. The physicochemical properties of the produced bioethanol were evaluated. Key findings include an iodine value of (17 g I7/100g), acid value of (2.861 mg KOH/g), and a refractive index of (1.3538). Other properties such as density (1.044 g/mL), specific gravity (0.933 g/cm³), cloud point (5°C), and a 60% yield were also recorded. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis confirmed the presence of functional groups typically found in bioethanol, including O-H(3326.48cm-¹), C=O(1634.48cm-¹), and C-O (1187.87cm-¹and 1049.49cm-¹) bending of alcohol. The results suggest that Luffa cylindrica could serve as a viable source for bioethanol production, providing an eco-friendly and renewable energy alternative. However, further purification is recommended to improve bioethanol quality and meet industry standards.
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