Extraction process optimization and characterization of the Pomelo (Citrus grandis L.) peel essential oils grown in Tien Giang Province, Vietnam

Abstract

Hydrodistillation was used to obtain the essential oil from pomelo (Citrus grandis L.) peels collected in Vietnam. The effects of extraction variables including size of material, temperature, extraction time, and water-to-material ratio on the yield of essential oil were investigated. In addition, to assess the quality of pomelo essential oil, the chemical composition was compared. The optimized conditions were as follows: material size of grind, temperature 120 °C, water to material ratio 5 mL/g, and extraction time 105 min., respectively. The chemical composition of the pomelo oil was then determined by GC-MS, where 5 components were identified, of which, limonene was the highest (97.1%). This method can be considered as a green method of extraction method as it is less energy intensive process and offers high performance. The results are exp