Methods to prevent acidification of Macaúba (Acrocomia aculeata) fruit pulp oil: A promising oil for producing biodiesel

摘要: Abstract Macauba ( Acrocomia aculeata ) produces large amounts of oil (more than 2.5 tons/ha/year) with a high oleic acid content. The is unsuitable for use in common industrial biodiesel processes (e.g., alkaline transesterification) because it rapidly acidifies after the fruit matures. present study investigated simple procedures to prevent this acidification. Preliminary evaluation enzyme(s) involved pulp degradation did not indicate presence plant lipase, but identify eight species lipolytic microorganisms colonizing macauba pulp. Some methods maintained acidity statistically equal fresh 15 days: immersing either pH 10 solution, brine (1% and 3%) or potassium sorbate solution (0.3%); autoclaving; steam; pasteurization at 85 °C. Autoclaving then drying fruits gave best result, preserving level fatty profile those up 180 days.