EXTRACTION AND ANALYSIS OF PHOENIX DACTYLIFERA L. (DATE SEED) OIL

Abstract

The research work aimed to extract oil from Phoenix dactylifera (Date Seed), known for its potential nutraceutical and biodiesel applications. Using n-hexane Soxhlet extraction, oil yields were determined as 30.8% for dust samples and 26.5% for lump samples. Physicochemical analysis showed moisture content at 6.77%, acid value at 1.083 mgKOH/g, and saponification value at 189 mgKOH/g, with specific gravity of 0.9016 and density of 0.9177 g/cm3 for both samples. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) identified 23 peaks in dust sample oil and 17 in lump sample oil, indicating functional groups such as OH, C-H, C=C, C=O, and N-H. Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) revealed dominant fatty acids Caprylic acid, Capric acid, Palmitic acid, and Oleic acid beneficial for brain health. Date palm seed oil's practical implications include soap manufacturing, washing agents, and biodiesel production. The research underscores the potential of date seed oil as a versatile resource with both industrial and health benefits.