OPTIMIZING SOXHLET EXTRACTION OF COTTON SEED OIL AND ITS APPLICATION AS ECO-FRIENDLY REAGENT FOR SUSTAINABLE COAL FLOTATION

Abstract

In the context of increasing environmental concerns and the global push for sustainability, there is a growing necessity for green coal processing technologies that minimize environmental impact while maintaining efficient resource utilization. This study investigates the feasibility of oil extraction from cotton seeds using the soxhlet extraction method for potential applications in non-coking coal flotation as eco-friendly reagent. The work focuses on optimizing the extraction process (feed size and temperature as process variables) to maximize oil yield, and also evaluating the potential of the extracted oil to enhance coal flotation performance. Cotton seeds were dried and size reduced to prepare the feed for extraction. The extracted oil was analyzed using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) to determine its functional groups and fatty acid composition, respectively. The results indicated that the extraction process effectively maximized oil yield, characterized by a diverse fatty acid profile, including significant amounts of linoleic and oleic acids. This study also shows the potential of utilizing cottonseed oil (CSO) as a non-conventional eco-friendly reagent in coal flotation, contributing to sustainable processes in the coal washeries. Hence, this approach contributes to greener coal processing technologies, promoting the development of sustainable, environmentally conscious industrial practices.