Optimization of Furfural Extraction from Camellia oleifera Abel Nutshell by Response Surface Methodology

Abstract:

Furfural extracted from Camellia oleifera Abel nutshell using modified sulfuric acid as the catalyst was studied. Based on single factor tests of liquidsolid ratio, hydrolysis reaction time, reaction temperature and sulfuric acid mass fraction, the optimum extraction process was evaluated by Box-Behnken central composite experimental design and response surface methodology analysis. The results indicated that the optimum conditions were liquid-solid ratio of 5.96mL/g, hydrolysis reaction time of 3.33h and reaction temperature of 140℃. Under these optimized conditions, the experimental value of furfural extraction yield was 1.93%, in good agreement with the predictive value 1.78%. Therefore, the furfural extraction process from Camellia oleifera Abel nutshell optimized by response surface methodology is very reliable.