Multi-purpose automatic solvent extractor

Abstract

A multi-purpose solvent extractor has been modified to be automatic and continuous in operation. This modification has the added advantages of requiring less solvent than the earlier apparatus and of minimising decomposition and charring of the extracted constituent. A sampling port is provided for on-line control sampling of the extract. The apparatus has been used for de-fatting whole groundnut kernels with hexane, and for the extraction of caffeine from aqueous solution with trichloroethylene.