Investigation Of The Effects Of Rubus Anatolicus Focke Extract On The Oxidative And Thermal Stability Of Biodiesel–Diesel Blends Using Gc–Ms And Dsc

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Türköz Karakullukçu N.

18th INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON ENGINEERING & NATURAL SCIENCES, Girne, Kıbrıs (Kktc), 27 - 29 Kasım 2025, ss.568-575, (Tam Metin Bildiri)

Özet

The oxidative instability of biodiesel remains a major limitation to its long term storage and

sustainable engine performance. This drawback arises from the high content of unsaturated fatty acid esters, which are prone to autooxidation and accelerate fuel degradation. To mitigate this problem, the addition of antioxidants is essential. While synthetic antioxidants such as TBHQ and BHT have been widely studied, growing concerns regarding their potential toxicity and regulatory restrictions highlight the importance of natural, eco-friendly alternatives. In this context, the present study explores the potential of Rubus anatolicus Focke (çalı böğürtleni), a plant species traditionally known for its rich phenolic and diterpenic compounds, as a novel stabilizing additive for biodiesel. The R. anatolicus extract was obtained by soxhlet extraction

and incorporated into biodiesel–diesel blends (B50D50) at a concentration of 3000 ppm. The phytochemical profile of the extract was elucidated using GC–MS, which confirmed the

presence of phenolic constituents with strong radical scavenging potential. The oxidative and

thermal behaviors of the blends were evaluated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), providing insights into crystallization onset temperatures and oxidative stability. The addition

of R. anatolicus extract significantly delayed the onset of oxidation, suppressed functional

group transformations associated with degradation, and reduced crystallization temperature, thereby enhancing both storage stability and cold flow properties of the biodiesel–diesel blends.

Overall, the findings demonstrate that R. anatolicus extract offers a promising, renewable, and environmentally compatible alternative to synthetic antioxidants. Its ability to extend biodiesel

shelf life and improve thermal oxidative resistance highlights its potential as a sustainable additive for next generation biofuels.