Investigation of kernel oils of Quercus robur and Quercus cerris

Abstract

The kernel oils of Quercus robur and Quercus cerris were obtained by Soxhlet extraction using petroleum ether. Oil yields were found to be 5.2-5.6% and 4.3-4.8% for Q. robur and Q. cerris kernel, respectively (expressed in g per 100 g of dried plant material). The physical and chemical constants, unsaponifiable matter and total fatty acids were determined. The total fatty acid composition of oils was determined by GC in the methyl ester form. Considering the composition and content of fatty acids, the examined kernel oils were very similar. Seven fatty acid components were identified in both oils: palmitic, stearic, arachidic, palmitoleic, oleic, linoleic, and α-linolenic. In Q. robur and Q. cerris kernel oils the principal acids were oleic (44.3% and 43.0%, respectively) and linoleic (37.2% and 32.6%, respectively), followed by a significant amount of palmitic acid. © 2004 Springer Science+Business Media, Inc.