SIMULATION STUDY OF BIODIESEL PRODUCTION FROM MARINE MACROALGAE IN NITERÓI USING ASPEN PLUS

This study uses acid-catalyzed transesterification to assess the production of third-generation biodiesel from macro algae available in Niterói, Rio de Janeiro. Simulations conducted in Aspen Plus indicated a production capacity of 1,048 kg/h of biodiesel that meets ANP specifications, with a density of 855 kg/m³ and viscosity of 3.58 mm²/s, achieving a conversion efficiency of 87.3%. The system also produced 376.9 kg/h of high-purity glycerol (96.6%) as a valuable byproduct. The findings confirm that biodiesel derived from macroalgae is a feasible solution for decarbonization, especially for agricultural and heavy transport applications. This approach effectively addresses important sustainability challenges by conserving natural resources and reducing pressure on ecosystems while adhering to Brazilian regulatory standards.