Extraction and Characterization of Cottonseed (Gossypium) Oil

This study investigated the extraction and characterization 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 compositions of the oil. The chemical properties of the oil determined include the saponification value, free fatty acid, iodine value, peroxide value and acid value. The physical properties of the oil determined are viscosity, specific gravity, refractive index, color, odor, taste and pH. The values obtained are Saponification value (189mgKOH/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 compositions obtained are Carbohydrate (57.06%), lipid/fat (13.30%), crude fiber (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.