STUDIES ON FIXED OIL OF JATROPHA-CURCAS SEEDS

Abstract

The fixed oil (41.5%) from the seeds of Jatropha curcas Linn. has been characterised for its fatty acid composition, and physico-chemical properties. The oil is found to consist of palmitic acid (14.16%), stearic acid (7.68%), oleic acid (46.72%) and linoleic acid (30.31%). The physicochemical constants include: Refractive index at 30.degree., 1.4675; Iodine value, 102; Saponification value, 196.72; Flash point, 227.degree. and Calorific value, 8990 K.cal/kg. The oil can be used as a mixed fuel for diesel/gasoline engines.