Optimization of Solvent Extraction of Parinari polyandra Benth Seed Oil Using Response Surface Methodology

Parinari polyandra B. seed is a potential source of oil with relatively high oil yield. Optimizing the extraction process of the oil will enhance its economic and industrial relevance, providing useful information for would be investors.
Aims: This work is aimed at extracting oil from the seeds of Parinari polyandra B. by using solvent extraction method. The process was optimized by using response surface methodology to determine the effect of four sets of parameters corresponding to optimum oil yield.
Methodology: Parinari oil was extracted using n-hexane and petroleum ether as solvents, Central Composite Design was used in the design of the 40extraction experimental runs. The effects of solvent residence time (A), temperature (B), solid/solvent ratio (C) and solvent types (D) on the yield of Parinari seed oil was studied using response surface methodology.
Results: The optimal yield of 64% was obtained at temperature of 60°C, residence time of 4 hours, solid/solvent ratio of 0.05g/ml using n-hexane as solvent. The physicochemical characteristics of the extracted Parinari polyandra oil compared well with literature values. Extraction temperature was found to have the most significant effect on the oil yield followed by residence time, solid/solvent ratio and solvent type.
Conclusion: The optimal yield of 64% was obtained at temperature of 60°C, residence time of 4 hours, solid/solvent ratio of 0.05g/ml using n-hexane as solvent. The physicochemical characteristics of the extracted Parinari polyandra oil compared well with literature values. Extraction temperature was found to have the most significant effect on the oil yield followed by residence time, solid/solvent ratio and solvent type.