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EXTRACTION OF OIL FROM GROUNDNUT SEEDS USING THREE DIFFERENT EXTRACTIVE SOLVENTS (METHANOL, ACETONE AND N-HEXANE)

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea), commonly known as peanut, is a major oilseed crop widely cultivated for its oil and protein-rich seeds. The oil extracted from groundnut seeds is a valuable commodity in both domestic and industrial applications, including food production, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics (Akinmoladun et al., 2021). The extraction process is crucial in determining the quality and yield of the oil, and various solvents can influence the efficiency and quality of this process (Siddique et al., 2018).

Solvent extraction is a commonly used method for oil extraction from seeds due to its efficiency in obtaining high yields. Among the solvents used, methanol, acetone, and n-hexane are prominent due to their varying polarity and solubility properties. Methanol, a polar solvent, can interact with a wide range of organic compounds, potentially extracting both oil and other soluble compounds from the seeds (Zhao et al., 2019). Acetone, also polar but less so than methanol, is known for its ability to extract oil while leaving behind less polar contaminants (Kumar et al., 2020). N-hexane, a non-polar solvent, is highly effective in extracting non-polar compounds like fats and oils from seeds (Mitra et al., 2021).

The efficiency of these solvents in extracting oil from groundnut seeds can significantly impact the yield and quality of the oil produced. Methanol and acetone are often used in conjunction with other techniques to improve extraction efficiency, whereas n-hexane is frequently used as a standard in industrial extraction processes (Ghosh et al., 2019). Understanding the differences in extraction efficiency and oil quality when using these solvents is essential for optimizing the extraction process.

Recent studies have highlighted the importance of selecting appropriate solvents for oil extraction to enhance the quality of the extracted oil and the efficiency of the process. For instance, research by Zhang et al. (2022) demonstrated that n-hexane provided the highest yield of oil compared to methanol and acetone, primarily due to its non-polar nature, which aligns with the non-polar nature of the oils. Conversely, methanol and acetone, with their polar properties, tend to extract additional compounds along with the oil, potentially affecting the oil's purity and quality (Smith et al., 2020).

Moreover, the choice of solvent can influence the environmental and economic aspects of the extraction process. Solvents like n-hexane, while effective, pose environmental concerns due to their volatility and potential toxicity (Chen et al., 2021). On the other hand, methanol and acetone, being more environmentally friendly, are preferable in sustainable extraction practices but may not always yield the highest quantities of oil (Lee et al., 2022).

The extraction method's efficiency also impacts the overall economic feasibility of groundnut oil production. As such, optimizing the extraction process by evaluating the effectiveness of different solvents can lead to more cost-effective and sustainable practices in the oil extraction industry (Patel et al., 2023). This background underscores the need for a comparative analysis of methanol, acetone, and n-hexane in extracting oil from groundnut seeds to determine the most efficient and practical solvent for various applications.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

The extraction of oil from groundnut seeds is a critical process in the production of edible oil and other value-added products. However, the efficiency and quality of oil extraction can vary significantly depending on the solvent used. While n-hexane is traditionally used due to its effectiveness in extracting oil, its environmental and health impacts raise concerns. Methanol and acetone offer alternative solutions, potentially providing more sustainable options but with different extraction efficiencies and oil qualities. Therefore, it is essential to investigate how these solvents compare in terms of oil yield, quality, and environmental impact to optimize the extraction process and enhance the sustainability of groundnut oil production.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The main objective of this study is to determine the effectiveness of methanol, acetone, and n-hexane in extracting oil from groundnut seeds and to evaluate their impact on the yield and quality of the oil produced.

Specific objectives include:

i.  To evaluate the impact of methanol, acetone, and n-hexane on the yield of oil extracted from groundnut seeds.

ii.  To determine the quality of oil extracted using these solvents in terms of purity and chemical composition.

iii.  To find out the environmental and economic implications of using methanol, acetone, and n-hexane in the oil extraction process.

1.4 Research Questions

i. What is the impact of methanol, acetone, and n-hexane on the yield of oil extracted from groundnut seeds?

ii. What is the quality of oil extracted using methanol, acetone, and n-hexane in terms of purity and chemical composition?

iii. How does the use of methanol, acetone, and n-hexane in the extraction process affect the environmental and economic aspects?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study is significant as it provides insights into the comparative effectiveness of different solvents in extracting oil from groundnut seeds. Understanding the yield and quality of oil obtained using methanol, acetone, and n-hexane can help optimize extraction processes, improve oil quality, and enhance economic efficiency. Furthermore, evaluating the environmental and economic impacts of these solvents will contribute to more sustainable and cost-effective practices in the oil extraction industry.

1.6 Scope of the Study

The study focuses on the extraction of oil from groundnut seeds using three solvents: methanol, acetone, and n-hexane. It evaluates the impact of these solvents on oil yield and quality, as well as their environmental and economic implications. The research is limited to laboratory-scale extraction processes and does not consider large-scale industrial applications.

1.7 Limitations of the Study

The study may be limited by the availability and quality of groundnut seeds used for extraction. Laboratory-scale experiments may not fully replicate industrial conditions, potentially affecting the generalizability of the results. Additionally, the environmental and economic assessments are based on theoretical models and may not account for all practical considerations in industrial settings.

1.8 Definition of Terms

Extraction: The process of separating oil from seeds or other materials using a solvent.

Solvent: A liquid used to dissolve other substances; in this study, methanol, acetone, and n-hexane.

Yield: The amount of oil obtained from the extraction process.

Purity: The extent to which the extracted oil is free from impurities and other substances.

Environmental Impact: The effect of the extraction process and solvents on the environment, including factors like pollution and toxicity.

Economic Implications: The cost-effectiveness and financial considerations associated with using different solvents for oil extraction.

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