Extraction and Characterisation of Cotton Seed (Gossypium) Oil.

Abstract

This study investigated the extraction and characterisation of cottonseed oil using solvent extraction method. Normal hexane was used as solvent in the extraction process. The AOAC method of analysis was employed in the determination of the chemical, physical and proximate composition of the oil. The chemical properties of the oil determined include saponification value, free fatty acid, iodine value, peroxide value and acid value. The physical properties determined include viscosity, specific gravity, refractive index, colour, odour, taste and Ph. The results obtained are as follows: saponification value (189mg/KOH/g), free fatty acid (5.75mgKOH/g), iodine value (94.7gI/100g), peroxide value (9.25mEq/kg) and acid value (11.50mgKOH/g). The proximate composition obtained are carbohydrate (57.06%), lipid (13.30%), crude fibre (0.5%), ash (1.5%), moisture content (7.21%) and crude protein (15.40%). The oil yield was 15.05%. From the results obtained, it can be seen that cottonseed oil has great potential for use as domestic and industrial oil.