Unleashing carbon quantum dots as novel nanocatalyst from waste plastic wrappers towards biodiesel production

Abstract

The accumulation of plastic waste poses a significant environmental threat, necessitating innovative strategies for its management and utilization. Carbon quantum dots derived from waste plastic wrappers were probed as novel nanocatalysts in the biodiesel synthesis using honge oil. The fluorescent solid catalyst was found to be highly active, with a higher yield of 99.52 % utilizing a mere 4 wt. % in the reaction. An extensive analysis of the catalyst was performed using different methods like XPS, BET, TGA, XRD, SEM-EDAX, FTIR, TEM, RAMAN, fluorescence microscopy, and spectroscopy. The fuel quality of the biodiesel produced, was observed to be within the commercial international standard. Kinetic investigations revealed pseudo-1st-order reaction kinetics, while thermodynamic analysis ascertained an endergonic, and nonspontaneous process. 1 kg of catalyst and 1 L of biodiesel cost $0.43 and $0.557, respectively. The E-metrics study confirmed the eco-friendly nature of the process. This unexplored area offers a sustainable solution that can help preserve nature and mitigate the challenges associated with conventional fuels. This research highlights the potential of recycling plastic waste into high-value catalysts, offering scope for its application in biodiesel synthesis from diverse non-edible oil feedstocks. Such advancements can contribute to a circular economy and address challenges linked to environmental pollution and sustainable fuel production.