Project Abstract

Abstract
This research project aimed to investigate the effect of particle size on oil yield using scent bean seeds. Scent bean seeds were ground into different particle sizes using a grinder, and the oil extraction process was carried out using a mechanical press. The oil yield was then measured and analyzed to determine the impact of particle size on the extraction efficiency of oil from scent bean seeds. The results of the study showed that particle size significantly influences the oil yield from scent bean seeds. It was observed that smaller particle sizes led to higher oil yields compared to larger particle sizes. This could be attributed to the increased surface area available for oil extraction in smaller particles, allowing for better contact between the oil and the solvent. In contrast, larger particles have lower surface area and may hinder efficient oil extraction. Furthermore, the study also revealed that there is an optimal particle size range for maximizing oil yield from scent bean seeds. Particle sizes that are too small may lead to clogging and difficulty in the oil extraction process, while particle sizes that are too large may result in lower oil yields. Therefore, selecting the appropriate particle size is crucial in achieving high oil extraction efficiency. Overall, the findings of this research highlight the importance of particle size in determining oil yield from scent bean seeds. By optimizing the particle size during the grinding process, it is possible to enhance the oil extraction efficiency and maximize oil yield. This information can be valuable for industries involved in oil extraction from scent bean seeds, providing insights into improving extraction processes and increasing oil production. Further research could focus on exploring different grinding techniques or additional factors that may influence oil yield, ultimately contributing to the development of more efficient oil extraction methods using scent bean seeds.

Project Overview

1.0. INTRODUCTION

1.1. BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

There has been an increase in the world production of oilseeds over the last thirty years (Murphy, 1994); this would appear to be related to the increasing demand for oilseed products and by-products as oilseeds are primarily grown for their oil and meal.Oils from most edible oilseeds are used in the food industry, though there is growing emphasis on industrial utilization as feedstock for several industries with about 80% of the world production of vegetable oils for human consumption. The remaining 20% utilization is between animal and chemical industries (Murphy, 1994).According to Rajagopal et al. (2005), bio-oils from oilseeds are used as Straight Vegetable Oil (SVO) or as biodiesel (trans esterified oil) depending on type of engine and level of blend of the oil; scent bean oil i.e. Ozaki, Ijiliji, or Azamu is found mainly in the South-East of Nigeria and is not an exception. This phenomenon has created a school of thought that it is better to use oilseeds as bio-fuel, which will lessen the competition for fossil fuels, which are not renewable. Fossil fuels are not only costly in terms of price but are also costly to the

[2]environment as they degrade land, pollute water and cause a general destabilization of the ecosystem with global warming as an end result. Furthermore, crude oil wields socio-political power that often dictates the pace of economic growth in specific locations, especially non-oil producing nations.Nevertheless, the petroleum industry requires a greater quantity of oil to meet its demand.Demand, however, by the food industry alone is not secure for many developing countries like Ghana that depend on imports of vegetable oil and fossil fuels. In order to meet the required amounts needed by all industries, these fats and oils must be available in large quantities locally with an effective extraction process at an affordable cost. The ability of a particular oilseed to fit into the growing industries depends on its utilization potential, rate of production, availability and ease of the processing technology. Thus while some oilseeds are being largely utilized in the oil processing industries, quite a number of oilseeds are under-exploited.Generally, oils and fats from seeds and nuts constitute an essential part of man’s diet. Fats and oils, together with proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals, are the main nutrients required by the human body. Fats and oils are rich sources of energy, containing two and a half times the calories of carbohydrates (per unit

[3]weight). In addition to being a source of vitamins A, D, E and K, fats and oils also contain essential fatty acids. These essential fatty acids are not manufactured by the body and must be obtained from diets, with linoleic, oleic and linoleic acids as examples of unsaturated fatty acids (NRI, 1995).