The fat content in oil is typically measured using a combination of techniques, including acidification, extraction, and gravimetric analysis, often employing the Soxhlet method.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
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Sample Preparation & Acidification: The oil sample is prepared, and acidification is performed. This step helps to separate fats and oils from other components in the sample. A sodium chloride solution is also added.
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Filtration: Following acidification and the addition of the salt solution, the mixture is filtered. This process isolates the fats and oils.
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Extraction (Soxhlet Method): The solid deposit collected from the filtration is then subjected to Soxhlet extraction. This involves placing the solid material in a Soxhlet apparatus and using a solvent to selectively dissolve the fats and oils. Common solvents used for this purpose include:
- Freon
- Hexane
- Trichloroethylene
- Chloroform
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Solvent Removal: After extraction, the solvent containing the dissolved fats and oils is carefully distilled off (evaporated).
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Gravimetric Measurement: Finally, a gravimetric measurement is performed. This means weighing the remaining residue, which consists of the extracted fats and oils. The weight of this residue represents the fat content of the original oil sample.
In summary, the fat content measurement relies on selectively extracting the fat from the oil sample, removing the solvent, and then accurately measuring the weight of the remaining fat.
