Production of Candle from Oil Extract of a Legume - Soybean

Abstract

This research confirmed that candles produced from oil extract of soybeans are eco-friendly and healthier alternatives to commercial candles made from paraffin wax. The soybeans were sorted, washed, crushed, dehulled and grinded prior to extraction to increase the surface area. Soybean oil is about 30% of the total soybean composition. Soxhlet extraction method was used with hexane as solvent. The extracted oil was then solidified with stearic acid to form wax inside a mold. Physical tests were carried out to prove its claims as a safer alternative to paraffin wax. The results supported the claims that soy candles are more economical and produced lesser soot than the paraffin candles.