Crambe abyssinica Hochst. Oil

Abstract

Crambe abyssinica Hochst is an oilseed of the family Brassicaceae, rich in oil with important properties for chemical applications. It is comprised of mono-unsaturated fatty acids (erucic, palmitoleic, oleic, gadoleic and nervonic acids) and antioxidants like phytosterols, tocopherols, carotenoids and chlorophyll. The oil can be extracted by mechanical pressing or using organic solvents. Some studies have used supercritical carbon dioxide and subcritical propane in oil extraction, resulting in higher yields and lower degradation of minor components. The oxidative stability of vegetable oils has been attributed to the content of minor compounds and the structure of fatty acids. Due to the presence of erucic acid, crambe oil is not suitable for human consumption, but it offers great potential for the production of erucic acid, lubricants, detergents, cosmetics, surfactants, pharmaceuticals, corrosion inhibitor, polyethylene films, behenic acid, coatings, nylons, refrigerant fluid, photographic materials, and insulation fluid. In addition, this oil presents great competitiveness and advantages over other vegetable oils in the biodiesel production. Refined oils can be used in fish feed. Cake and meal can be used as protein supplements in ruminant feed, in the removal of metallic ions and pollutants in bioremediation. Therefore, knowledge and studies on the composition of inedible vegetable oils, such as crambe oil, is particularly important for stability and conservation, considering the numerous uses of this oil.