Innovative extraction method for high-value rice bran oil
Research explores liquefied dimethyl ether as a green alternative to hexane
image: Research Explores Liquefied Dimethyl Ether as a Green Alternative to Hexane
Credit: Bio-Circular-Green-economy Technology & Engineering Center, BCGeTEC, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
The global demand for high-quality, sustainable oils is on the rise, and rice bran oil, known for its rich γ-oryzanol content, is becoming increasingly popular. However, traditional extraction methods using hexane raise environmental concerns due to the solvent's toxicity and environmental impact. Addressing this challenge, researchers at Chulalongkorn University have turned to liquefied dimethyl ether (LDME) as an alternative extraction solvent.
In their comprehensive study published in the Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts, the team systematically evaluated LDME against hexane, exploring its solubility, extraction efficiency, and the quality of the resulting oil. The researchers found that LDME outperformed hexane, requiring less solvent, shorter extraction times, and lower pressures to achieve equivalent extractions.
The study's lead author, Phannipha Daisuk, highlighted the significance of these findings, stating, "Our research demonstrates that LDME can effectively replace hexane, offering a safer and more environmentally friendly option for extracting rice bran oil." The team's experimental results showed no adverse effects on the rice bran protein and carbohydrate structures post-extraction, ensuring the sustainability of the by-products.
The research also compared LDME with supercritical carbon dioxide (SCCO2), another potential alternative solvent. While SCCO2 showed promise, it required higher solvent-to-rice bran ratios and additional co-solvents to achieve comparable extraction rates, making LDME a more economically viable option.
The findings from this study offer a significant step forward in the sustainable extraction of rice bran oil, positioning LDME as a leading contender to replace hexane. Future research will focus on scaling up the process and conducting a full techno-economic and environmental impact assessment.
See the article:
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jobab.2024.06.002
Original Source URL
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2369969824000501
Journal