Characterization and Performance of Cu-MOF and Modified Natural Catalysts for Biofuel Production from Waste Cooking Oil

Tri Widjaja

Abstract


This study explores the conversion of waste cooking oil (WCO) into biofuel through pyrolytic catalytic cracking using Cu-based metal–organic frameworks (Cu-MOF) and modified natural catalysts, namely Cu-Zeolite and Cu-Bentonite. The catalysts were synthesized via solvothermal (Cu-MOF) and metal impregnation followed by NaOH activation (Cu-Zeolite and Cu-Bentonite). Characterization was carried out using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier- transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). XRD analysis confirmed the crystalline structure of Cu-MOF, while Cu-Zeolite and Cu-Bentonite displayed reduced crystallinity due to metal incorporation. FTIR spectra revealed the presence of characteristic metal–oxygen bonds and functional groups, indicating successful modification and active site formation. Catalytic performance was evaluated at 440 °C. At this temperature condition, the Cu-Zeolite catalyst showed the highest selectivity towards the liquid biogasoline and green diesel fraction (54.11%), indicating its ability to break down long hydrocarbon chains into lighter fractions compared to Cu-Bentonite and Cu-MOF. Meanwhile, Cu-Bentonite showed moderate selectivity towards the biofuel fraction, reflecting its moderate catalytic activity due to its layered pore character and moderate acidity. In contrast, Cu-MOF showed the highest selectivity towards the liquid biokerosene fraction (53.01%), indicating its great potential to be developed as a precursor of oil liquid product in SAF production. Thus, each type of catalyst has its own role in determining the distribution of biofuel fractions, while showing significant applicative potential as an efficient catalyst for the conversion of WCO into high-quality biofuel through the pyrolytic catalytic cracking process.

Keywords


Biofuel; Waste Cooking Oil; Cu-MOF; Natural Catalysts; Catalytic Cracking

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References


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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.12962%2Fj2964710X.v7i1.23291

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