Originally Posted by wbw189
Yes, that is the same reaction happening, but my final product is not pale yellow. The product looks more like a dark ale. The only way I can tell the difference is to have a light source behind the flask I mixed it in and the bio is transparent. This made me wonder if I used the wrong amount of lye or if I missed a step.
Ben
Sounds like not enough KOH, A quick test for full conversion: put 800ml biodiesel in 1 ltr bottle, add 200ml methanol + Lye for 1 lt. Shake Well, 1-2min. Let it stand 30min. Watch for any glycerol to settle.
If your trying small batches, try adding 50 percent more Lye. If you get a good reaction you can adjust down from there.
The only other thing it could be is over-used oil. If the WVO is light colored than the bio will be light. If it is very dark the bio will be dark.
FABMANDELUX.