Optimization of extraction technology of sterols from discarded soybean pod by response surface methodology

Abstract

The ethanol solution extraction of sterols from discarded soybean pod was studied. The effects of factors on sterols yield was investigated by single factor experiment. On this basis, liquid to material ratio, ethanol concentration, extraction time and extraction temperature were selected, response surface method was used to optimize the extraction process of sterols. The model between extraction conditions and yield was established and analyzed for obtaining the optimal technological parameters and improve the sterols yield. The results showed that the sterols yield was significantly affected by the above four selected factors. The model obtained was significant. The optimum technological conditions of the ethanol extraction of soybean pod sterols were the liquid to material ratio of 26.8 mL g-1, ethanol concentration of 72.4%, extracting time of 1.86 h, extraction temperature of 68.4 °C. The theoretical maximum sterols yield was 7.82 mg g-1, the actual sterols yield was 7.74 mg g-1.

Keywords

• Soybean pod
• Sterols
• Extraction
• Response surface methodology