The Effects of the Polarity and Molecular Dynamic Energy of Bamboo Activated Carbon on the Degumming Process of Calophyllum inophyllum Oil

Abstract

Modified bamboo activated carbon (BAC) was added to non-edible Calophyllum inophyllum oil in a degumming process. The effects of its polarity and molecular dynamic energy on the degumming process were evaluated using characterizations and hyperChem software simulation. It was found that BAC acquired positive surface charge, polar characteristic, and mesoporous structures. The addition of BAC in the degumming process resulted in sufficient molecular dynamic energy (108.83 kcal/mol at 353K) as simulated by hyperChem, playing a role in facilitating successful dephospholipidation. Negatively charged oxygen around the hydrophilic phosphate head group of phospholipids was induced by BAC. The force exerted helped to loosen bonds around the polar head group. Interaction between BAC and polar water molecules also occurred, facilitating more hydrolysis reaction. These actions led to a higher possibility of phosphate head group removal off the phospholipid molecules. Consequently, there were large decreases in phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium concentrations along with small improvements in viscosity and calorific value in the degummed oil.