Experimental Process, Step 3B - Purification by Electric Field Assisted Washing

Electric Field Assisted Washing

Once the circuit has been complete, and the electrodes have been immersed in the crude biodiesel, the electric field assisted washing process can begin. To start, turn on the multimeter and have it set to read µA (microamps). After which the meter is set, turn on the power supply and set it to 40V. Be sure to be clear of the wiring to be safe and avoid shock. Have this set up for six hours. During this time frame, record the multimeter readings every 30 minutes. Be sure not to touch the circuit so the electrodes are not disturbed.

Figure 1: Electrolysis setup, 2nd iteration.

 This process charges the electrodes which attract the oppositely charged impurities in the crude biodiesel. These impurities then clump together and drift to the bottom of the beaker in a gel like substance. This leaves the purified biodiesel resting on the top.

Figure 2: Detailed shot of beaker assembly.

Once the process has run for the selected time duration, turn the power supply off. Remove the clips attached to each electrode. Carefully remove the apparatus, and pour the purified biodiesel into a clean beaker. Store the used beaker with the gel precipitate for massing. The mass of this beaker is used to know the amount impurities taken out. The purified biodiesel is now ready for testing.