Innovating Science- Small Group Learning: Production of Biodiesel

In this activity, students will be performing a two-phase process to produce small batches of crude biodiesel. The crude biodiesel produced is of sufficient quality for use in the demonstration of the burning qualities of both biodiesel and vegetable oil. Included is an optional small-scale exercise where the students will use a washing procedure for the crude biodiesel if you wish to have the students experience the full process of producing biodiesel to meet quality levels necessary for use in vehicles.
This kit contains enough material for 5 groups. Teacher's Manual and Student Study Guide copymasters are included.

Aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)*

Disciplinary Core Ideas: PS1.A; PS1.B
Performance Expectations: MS-PS1-2; MS-PS1-3; HS-PS1-2
Cross Cutting Concepts: Patterns; Structure and Function
Engineering Practices: Analyzing and Interpreting Data; Obtaining, Evaluating and Communicating Information

Kit Includes:
2 X 500mL Vegetable Oil
5 X 25mL Methyl Alcohol
1 X 10g Potassium Hydroxide
2 Microburners

Optional:
Containers with sealable caps large enough to hold 200ml of liquid (if performing the washing process)
Distilled water (if performing the washing process)

DOT Info:
Small quantity exemption 173.4
THIS PACKAGE CONFORMS TO 49 CFR 173.4 for domestic highway or rail transport only

*”Next Generation Science Standards” is a registered trademark of Achieve. Neither Achieve nor the lead states and partners that developed the Next Generation Science Standards was involved in the production of, and does not endorse, this product.

WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including Methanol, which is known to the State of California to cause reproductive harm.