Soxhlet Extraction of Crotalaria Juncea Oil Using Cylindrical and Annular Packed Beds

Abstract

An innovative method for the extraction of vegetable oils, from Crotalaria Juncea seeds, was developed, using suitable solvent in a modified Soxhlet apparatus. The present study describes the general extraction mechanism in modified Soxhlet apparatus and change of mass transfer extent within fixed duration with the change of the shape of packed bed used as a seed holder. Regular cylindrical and annular shaped seed holders were used along with irregular (elliptical) shaped seed holder. Maximization of mass transfer parameter in the up flow regime gave considerable increase in the yield of oil production. Use of annular seed holder gives maximum driving force for the up flow regime and higher mass transfer area, hence improved yield.