Optimization of pulsed electric field-assisted oil extraction from cannabis seeds

The purpose of this research was to study the influence of pulsed electric field (PEF) intensity (0, 3, and 6 kV/cm) and the speed of oil extraction screw press (10, 20, and 30 rpm) on the physicochemical properties of cannabis oil. This process is optimized through response surface methodology (RSM). The results indicated that applying PEF intensity up to 3 kV/cm and increase in the rotational speed of press up to 20 rpm, increased the efficiency of oil extraction but it does not have any significant influence on the refractive index, acidity, acidic index, and peroxide. The highest phenolic content (2,036 ppm) was obtained for the sample treated with PEF intensity 3 kV/cm and press speed of 20 rpm. Regarding optimization results, the sample pretreated with PEF intensity of 2.33 KV/cm and press speed of 28.69 rpm was chosen as the best sample, as a result of increased efficiency and more optimized physicochemical properties. Practical applications Regarding increase of demand for new techniques, PEF could be introduced as a new, fast, efficient, and environmentally friendly extraction method. Applying PEF for oil extraction is a way to moderate heat-assisted processes and to increase sufficiency of cold processes. PEF reduced processing time and made cannabis permeable to release its oil easily, so it should be presented as an effective pretreatment to oil industry.