Pulsed Electric Field-Assisted Extraction of Essential Oil: Methods and Protocol Related to Processing Factors
摘要
Pulsed electric field-assisted extraction (PEFE) is an innovative, nonthermal technology for extracting essential oils (EO) from plant materials. Traditional extraction methods, including mechanical, chemical, and thermal approaches, are time-intensive, solvent-heavy, and may degrade volatile compounds and cell structures. In contrast, PEFE preserves the natural chemical profile of extracts by operating at low temperatures. PEFE uses rapid electric pulses (0.1–80 kV/cm) to create temporary pores in plant cell membranes, enhancing the release of bioactive compounds like polyphenols, carotenoids, and flavonoids. This increases extraction yield and reduces processing time, making it a sustainable and cost-effective method. Classified as a moderate electric field technique, PEFE can also be combined with other green technologies, such as ultrasound or microwave-assisted extraction, for enhanced efficiency. This chapter explores the mechanisms of electric fields in oil extraction, detailing equipment used at laboratory, pilot, and industrial scales. It also discusses plant sample preparation based on their origin, critical PEF treatment conditions, and postprocessing protocols. Additionally, safety considerations for handling PEF equipment and its processing limitations are addressed. Optimizing PEFE for industrial applications offers a promising solution for sustainable bioactive compound recovery from food processing by-products.