Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Radish Seed Oil with Methyl Acetate for Biodiesel Production†

This study evaluated the extraction of radish seed oil (Raphubus sativus L.) for application in biodiesel production. The experiments were performed in a process assisted by ultrasound using methyl acetate as the solvent, seeking to evaluate the effects of the process parameters, such as time, temperature and solvent-to-seed ratio, on the oil yield, and to establish the conditions that maximize the oil extraction yield. Convention extraction was performed for comparative purposes. The extraction time had the greatest influence on the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) for the experimental range evaluated, followed by the temperature and amount of solvent. The maximum oil recovery (33%) was obtained for the experiment conducted at 60 °C and a solvent-to-seed ratio of 10 mL/g with an extraction time of 90 min. The application of ultrasound influenced the oil yield and at 120 min a yield of 33% was obtained. Oleic and erucic acids were the main fatty acids identified in the radish seed oil. The fatty acids composition and physico-chemical characteristics of the oils obtained were not influenced by the extraction method, but the use of ultrasound had a stronger influence on the removal of phytosterols. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved