SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF BIOETHANOL FROM JUTE LEAVES ( CORCHORUS OLITORIUS)

ABSTRACT This study investigates the production of bioethanol from jute leaves through a series of chemical and microbiological processes, including acid pretreatment, fermentation, and distillation. Jute leaves were collected from Ilesha, Osun State, Nigeria, and pretreated with sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) to break down hemicellulose and disrupt lignin structure, releasing fermentable sugars. After fermentation, the resulting mixture was subjected to distillation, and the bioethanol obtained was analyzed for its physicochemical properties. Key parameters of the bioethanol produced include an acid value of (148 mg KOH/g), an iodine value of (50 mg I₂/100 g), and a refractive index of (1.3495). The density and specific gravity were determined to be 1.269 g/mL and 3.83 (dimensionless), respectively. The cloud point was recorded at 3°C. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis confirmed the presence of functional groups typically found in bioethanol, including O-H (3271 cm-1 ) ,and C=O( 1363 cm-1 ), stretching. The absorption peak at 3271 cm⁻¹, indicates the presence of O-H groups. The percentage yield of bioethanol from jute leaves was calculated to be 60%. This yield indicates a moderate level of efficiency in the production process. This demonstrates that jute leaves can be a viable raw material for bioethanol production. Optimizing the process parameters, such as fermentation conditions and purification steps, could potentially improve the yield and quality of the bioethanol produced. The findings of this study highlight the potential of jute leaves as a renewable raw material for sustainable bioethanol production. Further purification is required to enhance its quality to meet industry standards as it offers a pathway towards greener energy solutions.