Refined Glycerine Vegetable Based
Vegetable Base Grade
Manufacturing Process
1. Degumming
The degumming process of vegetable oil involves the removal of phosphatides from vegetable oil by centrifugation. Water is added in the mixture to allow the precipitation of phosphatides dissolved in oil. The precipitated phosphatides become heavier in mass due to the high water content absorbed. The centrifugation process allows phosphatides to migrate to the water phase; therefore, removing impurities in the oil. Degumming is required to refine the quality of the vegetable oil and allows longer storage time.
2. Deacidification
The vegetable oils undergo deacidification through a series of solvent extraction processes. The initial vegetable oil is mixed in methanol by agitation. The existing free fatty acid in the oil will preferably dissolve in methanol and decrease the concentration in the oil. As free fatty acid is the cause of the oxidation and unpleasant scent of the oil, it is essential to remove the compound from the oil to promote storage time and refining.
3. Transesterification / Saponification
The deacidified oil is decomposed through a process called hydrolysis. The process utilizes water to break down the chains of triglycerides into glycerol/glycerine and fatty acid under high temperature and pressure. In this step, glycerine becomes available for extraction and undergoes further refining.
4. Glycerin pre treatment
The mixture of glycerine and chain of fatty acids is further refined by a series of separation processes. The oil mixture is distilled to separate the fatty acids from the desired glycerine. The distillation column is heated to promote evaporation of both glycerine and fatty acid. Glycerine has higher boiling point; therefore, glycerine will evaporate readily at a certain range temperature whereas the chains of fatty acid will remain as liquid.
5. Evaporation
The extracted mixture of glycerine is not fully refined as leftover methanol has not been removed from the deacidification process; therefore, evaporating the methanol from the glycerine is required to produce a readily refined glycerine.
Applications
1. Pharmaceuticals Industry
Refined glycerine is frequently utilized as a raw ingredient in pharmaceutical production. The chemical compound has been used in anesthetics, suppositories, cough medicines, and medications for the heart. Additionally, glycerine contains laxative qualities that help the stomach's lining absorb digested food more easily.
Refined glycerine holds onto water in cosmetic products to preserve their softness, creaminess, and shelf life. Due to the low vapor pressure of glycerin, the substance can continue to exist even when moisture is continuously released into the environment. Glycerine drinks are used in sports to help athletes stay hydrated because they lose water when exercising.
2. Industrial Applications
Recently, refined glycerine has been studied as a potential intermediary product for fuel additives. By using fuel additives made from oxygenated glycerin derivatives, hazardous emissions are reduced. On the other hand, refined glycerine's lubricating qualities are employed to improve machine performance and lower friction. The decreased friction allows heat to escape and keeps equipment from overheating. Another justification for using refined glycerol as a chemical intermediary and in industrial applications is its economic feasibility.
3. Personal Care Products
In personal care and hygiene products, refined glycerine vegetable-based finds its place as a versatile ingredient. It's a key element in toothpaste and mouthwash, imparting smooth textures and preventing dryness. Glycerine's moisturizing attributes also extend to shampoos and conditioners, enhancing hair hydration and softness. Furthermore, it plays a crucial role in hand sanitizers, counteracting excessive skin dryness caused by frequent use. In these applications, glycerine ensures both product effectiveness and user comfort, making it a staple in the realm of personal care and hygiene.
4. Food and Beverages Industry
Refined glycerine vegetable based finds diverse applications in the food and beverage industry. As a natural sweetener and humectant, it enhances the flavor profile and moisture retention in baked goods, confections, and beverages. Its hygroscopic properties prevent crystallization and extend the shelf life of candies and frostings. Glycerine improves texture and stability in sauces, dressings, and ice creams, while also serving as a mild preservative. This versatile compound contributes to the sensory appeal and quality of various food products, making it a valued ingredient in creating appealing and long-lasting culinary experiences.