The present study reports the results of the kinetic study of base catalyzed transesterification of soybean oil carried out at an optimum temperature of 338k, methanol to oil ratio of 6:1 and catalyst concentration 1% (w/w) for KOH. The... more
The present study reports the results of the kinetic study of base catalyzed transesterification of soybean oil carried out at an optimum temperature of 338k, methanol to oil ratio of 6:1 and catalyst concentration 1% (w/w) for KOH. The yield of methyl ester (FAME) has been used to study the effect of different parameters which resulted in a maximum yield of 87.9%. The kinetic model of the transesterification reaction was analyzed using zero order, first order and second order kinetic models. The kinetic data informed to second order kinetic model. Activation energy obtained from this study was – 10076.568KJ/kmol and a pre-exponential factor of 1.1195x10-5min-1.
This paper reviews how information was utilised by the disputing parties made up of producers and consumer interests in seeking and opposing the imposition of tariff and non-tariff barriers relating to the entry of palm oil into the US... more
This paper reviews how information was utilised by the disputing parties made up of producers and consumer interests in seeking and opposing the imposition of tariff and non-tariff barriers relating to the entry of palm oil into the US market. Information was used in a variety of ways to mould public opinion and influence official US trade policy. Producers, with the support of the Government of Malaysia, countered US efforts by mounting an information-based counter-campaign. This study examines how US-based opponents to the importation of oil palm used information to influence consumer opinion and governmental decision-makers. It goes on to describe countermeasures taken by Malaysian producers. These latter measures included counter-arguments challenging spurious claims made by US-based groups. The paper also reviews the role played, and the positions taken by the US and Malaysian governments. Malaysia, as one of the world’s leading exporter of palm oil, reacted to preserve and protect the interests of various stakeholders in the palm oil industry. Measures taken included greater R&D effort, stronger trade promotion and countering spurious information. This study demonstrates how information was used by disputing parties to shape consumer opinion and develop a case for policy intervention by the respective governments.
