The synthesis of Lewis acid ZrO2 nanoparticles and their applications in phospholipid adsorption from Jatropha oil used for biofuel

ZrO(2) nanoparticles were successfully fabricated via a facile hydrothermal process. The diameter and surface area of the as-prepared ZrO(2) nanoparticles were approximately 5-10 nm and 102 m(2)/g, respectively. For the first time, Zr atoms with partial positive charges in a Lewis acid ZrO(2) nanoparticle adsorbent were used for the adsorption of negatively charged phospholipids from Jatropha oil. The capacity for phospholipid adsorption using the ZrO(2) nanoparticles was better than that of commercial ZrO(2) powder due to the larger surface area of the ZrO(2) nanoparticles. Phospholipid removal makes Jatropha oil a potential oil for biofuel applications.