Study on extraction process and analysis of components in essential oils of Vietnamese orange peel (Citrus sinensis) by microwave assisted hydrodistillation extraction

Abstract

This study attempted the extraction of essential oils (EOs) from orange peel, and optimized the experimental parameters of the microwave-assisted hydrodistillation process. Gas chromatography-Mass spectrometry was often used for the assessment of the chemical content of the natural oils collected. Optimal conditions for the extraction process consisted of the ratio of 1:3 peel/water, microwave power of 300W and duration of 45 minutes. These conditions gave the highest yield (2%). From the gas chromatographic results, five components were identified in the obtained orange peel EOs with Limonene being the major components (98.416%). Based on availability, orange peel is suggested as an economically viable source for limonene production. Obtained results are expected to aid in mitigation of environmental impact caused by agricultural wastes.