Effect of temperature on the physical properties’ density, viscosity, and refractive index of babassu (Orbignya sp.) oil in the range between 293 and 333 K

Abstract

The investigation of vegetable oils' physical properties is indispensable to promote further applicability. In this sense, the density (ρ), absolute viscosity (µ), and refractive index (IR) of two brands of refined babassu oil (A and B) were obtained as a function of temperature (293.15 to 333.15 K). Mathematical models were adjusted to the experimental data. Babassu oil had an average percentage of saturated fatty acids of 85.60%. The ρ, µ and IR were inversely proportional to temperature and were influenced by the fatty acid composition and the degree of unsaturation of the oil. Arrhenius Model was the most accurate in explaining the variation of µ as a function of temperature. Time-dependent properties differed between samples, which highlights the importance of investigating different sources. The models obtained are useful for the disclosure of the physical properties of babassu oil, enabling its application in engineering processes and product development.