Isolation of Phytosterols from Deodorizer Distillate and their Utilization in Preparation of Surface-active Agent

Abstract

Abstract Phytosterols are minor constituents of vegetable oils, which are being removed in the vegetable oil refining process such as deodorization. Deodorizer distillate is obtained in deodorization process, which contains about 4–8% of phytosterols. In the present study the aim was to utilized vegetable oil refining byproducts into valuable specialty surfactants. Phytosterols were isolated from deodorizer distillate of soybean oil using two different methods. In the first method methyl ester of deodorizer distillate was prepared and phytosterols isolated by crystallization. In the second method calcium soap of deodorizer distillate was prepared and unsaponifiable matter extracted using solvent. Phytosterols were isolated by crystallization in hexane from unsaponifiable matter. The phytosterols thus obtained was used for synthesis of sulfosuccinate surfactant. Surface active properties of phytosterols sulfosuccinate were evaluated and shows good surface active properties.