Comparative Studies and Optimization of the Process Factors for the Extraction of Beta-carotene from Palm Oil and Soybean Oil by Solvent Extraction

This research focuses on the extraction of beta-carotene from palm and soybean oils using solvents (Ethanol and Acetone), taking into account the effect of the extraction process factors such as time, temperature, dosage of the oil samples, solvent volume and solvent type. The extraction of beta-carotene from palm and soybean oils using acetone and ethanol was positively influenced by increase in temperature, time, solvent volume, dosage of the oil samples and solvent type. The effect of temperatures was carried out within the temperature ranges of 35ºC, 40ºC, 45ºC and 50ºC. It was observed that increase in temperature resulted in increase in concentration and 45ºC gave the highest concentration. From the study, it was observed that the extraction process for beta-carotene almost reached equilibrium after 50 mins for palm oil and 45 mins for soybean oil. Between acetone and ethanol used, ethanol was found to be the best solvent for the extraction of beta-carotene from palm oil and soybean oil. From the results, the concentration of the extracted beta-carotene increased as the volume of the solvent increased using both acetone and ethanol on both substrates. The concentration of extracted beta-carotene increased with increase in the dosage of the oil samples (palm and soybean). The increase in concentration could be attributed to the more active sites due to increase in the substrate volume.