I have read that after acid esterification there will be excess amounts of water created from the reaction. In this water I understand there to be methanol. How will I know whether or not this water/methanol mixture will be enouge to cause problems with the base stage? Also, I understand I should let the acid mixture mix for about 12 hours. What temperature should I keep this at during this time? After the mixture is done mixing, should I let it stand or seperate for a length of time? Will anything settle out of this first acid step? I'd appreciate any help yall can give to this newbe...

This message has been edited. Last edited by: nick40,

nick40,
the answers is it depends..
are you looking to get the maximum yield possible?
are you trying to find a way to use oil that's bad and get some BD from it?
what's the titration before the acid stage?
I've see that initial titration below 14 koh removing the water created isn't necessary. the yield is only a little bit down from dry that starts with the final titration. over 18 initial settling and draining of the water methanol helps the base process.

if you can safety maintain the temp around 140-150 that helps, but its not required. the process might take longer.

if the initial titration is below 14, no need to let it settle before starting the base stage. this assumes that the final titration reach an acceptable level. ideally 3 or less.

one other note. the oil must be dry before starting the acid stage. water will stop the acid stage.

good luck

-dkenny