Extraction and Characterization of Gmelina Seed Oil; Kinetics and Optimization Studies

Abstract

The kinetics and optimization of oil extraction from gmelina seed was studied. The effect of various process variables such as temperature, time, volume of solvent, particle size, and their interaction on oil yield was investigated. A Predictive model describing the oil yield in terms process variables was derived from multiple regression analysis. Optimum yield of 49.90% was predicted at extraction temperature of 60 C, extraction time of 60 mins, seed particle size of 150μm and 150ml volume of solvent, for the process. It was found that oil yield increased with increase in temperature, time and volume of solvent but decreased with increase in seed particle size. The extract was analyzed to examine its physico-chemical properties (acid value, iodine value, peroxide value, viscosity, saponification value, moisture and ash content, refractive index, smoke, flash and fire points and specific gravity) and structural elucidation by standard methods and instrumental techniques. Results revealed that the oil is not edible but find potential in biodiesel production. The Kinetic study showed that the extraction process follows a second order mechanism with a rate constant of 1.26x1011 (dm3/mol)3S 1.