What Is Hexane Extraction?

Hexane extraction is a form of oil extraction that uses the chemical solvent hexane and evaporation to pull the oils from various oil seeds, fruits, nuts, and olives to create cooking oils. There are several different processes that are used to extract oil that involve pressing or squeezing to extract, but hexane extraction is much faster and efficient, especially if you have the need to produce large quantities of oil.  With hexane extraction the oil seed is ground up and soaked in the solvent. As the solvent evaporates it leaves behind the oil that can then be turned into edible cooking oils such as olive oil, canola oil, or sunflower seed oil. This is the fastest and easiest method to extract a large amount of oil in a short amount of time.

Why is Hexane a Preferred Solvent for Extraction?

While many solvents can be used for extraction, hexane is preferred for several reasons. Hexane has a low toxicity level and produces no hazardous or poisonous fumes that could pose a threat to the user.  Hexane also has a rapid evaporation rate and low boiling point that allows the maximum amount of oil to be quickly and effectively extracted from the oilseed. Another major benefit of hexane extraction is that the chemical solvent hexane does not disturb the nutritional value of food that you are extracting oil from. 

Where to Find Hexane for Extraction? 

If you are in need of hexane for extraction, you will want to find a reliable chemical provider that will supply you with high purity hexane for an affordable cost. Ecolink is a long time, environmentally friendly, chemical provider and we can help with all of your chemical needs. We can provide high purity hexane, such as 99% pure food grade hexane for extraction at an affordable rate. We also offer bulk quantities that help cut costs and ensure high production facilities will always have enough of their necessary solvents on hand. If you are interested in learning more about Hexane and Ecolink, contact us today!