Pressure shockwaves to enhance oil extraction from Jatropha curcas L.

Abstract

Kinetic data regarding the intensity of maceration and subsequent pretreatment with pressure shockwaves (50 MPa to 60 MPa) are described in detail and evaluated statistically. Mass balances as well as the study on liquid environment are reported, allowing further process optimization according to financial aspects. It was verified on a laboratory scale by Soxhlet apparatus that oil extraction over 94 % may be reached. Achieving such a high level of disintegration opens wide options for application of hydrolysis in order to break apart the remaining lignocellulose cell walls and access the last oil remaining in the vacuoles.