A Comparative Study of Apricot Kernel Oil Yield Using Different Extraction Methods

Apricot kernel was used as a raw material to compare and analyze the yield of apricot kernel oil using a pressing method, an ultrasonic-assisted extraction method, and a Soxhlet extraction method. The optimum extraction conditions were further verified through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The fatty acid composition of the apricot kernel oil consisted of palmitic acid and stearic acid, and the total content of cis-oleic acid and cis-linolenic acid reached 93%. The apricot kernel oil obtained by Soxhlet extraction had the highest yield. However, the Soxhlet method has some limitations, such as high consumption of energy, long extraction time, and low efficiency. Ultrasound-assisted extraction has been developed by the industry to minimize these disadvantages. Finally, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis was carried out on the ultrasonic-assisted extraction method, and it was again shown that the apricot kernel oil contained many unsaturated fatty acids.