LAUSR

Abstract A highly efficient transformation of vegetable oils into biodiesel catalysed by air-stable and water-tolerant zirconocene perfluorooctanesulfonate Lewis acid has been developed. By combining the direct esterification of free fatty acids (FFAs) and transesterification of triglycerides (TGs), the simultaneous transformation of the two components to biodiesel is achieved in good yields. Furthermore, this catalyst, when used in the synthesis of biodiesel from commercial oleifera, behaves as a reaction-induced self-separation catalyst. During the course of the reaction, it switches from homogeneous to heterogeneous; upon completion of the reaction, the catalyst precipitates as a white solid, which can be easily recycled.