Avaliação do processo de extração para obtenção do óleo essencial de Chromolaena squalida e análise de risco da indústria com solvente

Abstract

The demand for natural products highlights the favoritism of the essential oil market. In fact, Brazil is an important producer and marketer of essential oils with therapeutic properties. In this way, plants are essential sources for obtaining new drugs for human use. With this in mind, the aim of this study is to present the main extraction methods used to obtain essential oil, especially that of Chromolaena squalida, with an emphasis on solid-liquid extraction trends, by means of a literature review. In addition, the aim is to carry out a preliminary risk analysis of hazardous materials related to the use of solvents in the industrial production process in order to achieve safer and more productive work in classified areas. In summary, the main extractive techniques discussed were vapor drag extraction, solvent extraction and supercritical fluid extraction, the latter being the most viable method for laboratory bench scale, while solvent extraction is widely used on an industrial scale due to the better process control of the unit operations involved, applicability to different raw materials, relative low cost and good separation efficiency. On the other hand, areas that use solvents considered to be hazardous materials require special care, following specific regulations, developing risk analysis and related safety for processes, people and the environment. Therefore, the main themes applied to safety in classified areas were also examined. Thus, based on the literature review, this work can be used for more specific studies related to obtaining essential oil from cerrado plants by solvent extraction and consulting the main safety measures involved for industries with hazardous materials.