The effect of rapeseed treatment by microwave and radio-frequency application on oil extraction and oil quality. Part I : Influence on mechanical oil extraction

Abstract

The effect of a pretreatment of rapeseed with microwaves and radio-frequency energy on the oil yield and on the oil quality was investigated. Rapeseed samples were treated in an experimental microwave applicator and in an experimental radio-frequency applicator at different temperatures. Duration of treatment and the power applied were also varied. Afterwards the samples were pressed in a laboratory screw press and the exploitation rate was calculated. Results showed that pretreatment led to an obvious increase of the exploitation rate. The important parameters for this effect are temperature of pretreatment and power applied. Time of pretreatment is of lower importance. Further investigations also showed an influence of the pretreatment on quality parameters of the oil. These results are presented in the second part of this article The Effect of Rapeseed Pretreatment by Microwave- and RF-application on Oil Extraction and Oil Quality - Part II. Influence on Oil Quality.