Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This research project focuses on the construction of an open steam distillation setup for the extraction of essential oils from plant materials. Steam distillation is a widely used method for isolating essential oils from various botanical sources due to its effectiveness in preserving the delicate aromatic compounds. The open steam distillation setup described in this project provides a simple and cost-effective way to perform essential oil extraction in a home or small-scale laboratory setting. The construction of the open steam distillation apparatus involves the assembly of readily available components such as a boiling flask, condenser, and collection vessel. The plant material is placed in the boiling flask along with water, and heat is applied to generate steam. The steam passes through the plant material, carrying the essential oils along with it. The steam and essential oil mixture then enters the condenser, where it is cooled and condensed back into a liquid. The essential oil separates from the water and can be collected in a separate container. The design of the open steam distillation setup allows for easy monitoring and adjustment of the distillation process. The temperature of the boiling flask can be controlled to optimize the extraction of essential oils while preventing degradation due to excessive heat. The condenser ensures that the steam is efficiently condensed, allowing for the collection of a high-quality essential oil product. In addition to its simplicity and ease of construction, the open steam distillation setup offers versatility in terms of the types of plant materials that can be processed. A wide range of aromatic plants, herbs, and flowers can be used for essential oil extraction using this method. Furthermore, the use of water as the solvent in steam distillation makes this process environmentally friendly and safe for both the operator and the final product. Overall, the construction of an open steam distillation setup provides an accessible and efficient way to extract essential oils from plant materials. Whether used for hobbyist purposes or small-scale production, this setup offers a practical and cost-effective solution for individuals interested in the art of essential oil extraction. By following the guidelines outlined in this project, individuals can create their own open steam distillation apparatus and embark on the journey of producing high-quality essential oils from natural botanical sources.

Thesis Overview

1.0     INTRODUCTION

Distillation is a separating technique in which two liquids are separated at essentially the same temperature and pressure.  It is also the term used to describe the operation where the vaporization of a liquid mixture yields a vapor phase containing more than one constituents and it is desired to recover one or more of this constituents in a nearly pure state.

            It would probably be beneficial to define the terms that describe the process and related properties.  Let us begin by describing the process by which a substance transformed from the condensed phase to the gas phase.  For liquid, this process is called VAPORIZATION and for a solid it is called SUBMIATIN, both processes requires heat.  All substances regardless whether they are liquids or solids are characterized by a vapor pressure.  The vapor pressure of a pure substance is the pressure exerted by the substance against the external pressure which is usually atmospheric pressure.  Vapor pressure is a measure of the tendency to escape.  When the vapor pressure of a liquid substance reaches the external pressure the substance is observed to Boil.  If the external pressure is atmospheric pressure, the temperature at which a pure substance boils is called the NORMAL BOILING POINT.