Optimization of de-shelling and oil extraction of Jatropha curcas L. for direct use in Plant oil stoves

Harvested and peeled Jatropha curcas seed is the basic product for the processes to investigate. An appropriate de-shelling technology for the seed will be developed. The de-shelling process is strongly influenced by moisture, oil content and other physical and chemical characteristics of Jatropha seed. Consequently, oil quality, pressing efficiency and presscake composition and quality depend on these. On the other hand, physical and chemical characteristics of Jatropha seed are influenced by the site where it grows as well as the postharvest operations like drying and storage.

In small scale oil pressing units undesirable plant materials are found in the crude oil due to the renouncement of extensive and costly cleaning processes. These impurities lead to residues during the combustion in household cooking devices and stationary engines and reduce lifetime and service intervals significantly. Consequently, the contamination of the crude oil by these unwanted impurities should be avoided during production.

Objectives:

• Physical and mechanical properties of Jatropha curcas L. seeds has to be investigated and reported.

• Optimization of oil-pressing with respect to oil and press cake quality.

• Analysis of the influence of vegetable oil components and oil parameters on the formation of residues in plant oil stoves.

• Generate a standard for Jatropha curcas oil for the use in plant oil stoves.

• Developing process steps for cleaning Jatropha curcas crude oil for the use in plant oil stoves.