Technical-economic analisys of the solvent-method optimization of Origanum vulgare essential oil extraction based on technical and quality criteria

The aim of the present research was oriented to study the effect of solvent polarity, solute–solvent ratio, selection of the solvent method and particle size on the performance of the Origanum vulgare extraction, its parameters in reference to quality physicochemical criteria and its technoeconomic feasibility. A completely randomized experimental design with A $$\times$$ B factorial arrangement was used, with the purpose of establishing adequate data processing that will serve as a basis for diagrams that interpret the kinetics of an extraction process at defined conditions (pressure and temperature), in intimate relation to the polarity of the solvent. The application of technical standards in the characterization of plant matter and final product has been considered, physically and chemically analyzing its main properties (humidity 10.7453% wet basis, ethereal extract 1.833%, refractive index 1.4774–1.4790, acidity index 0.4632–0.7628% and density 0.9169–0.9396). The described actions affirm the detailed analysis about the extraction process and the operative variables that affect the phenomenon, focused on the generation of experimental mathematical monograms and models that reflect the characteristics of obtaining the essential oil of O. vulgare, which contributes to the reduction of the production conflicts associated with the extraction (the type of solvent, particle size, solute–solvent ratio, environmental pollution, etc.) of essential oils, with lower costs, best strategies and higher yields. Two kinetic models were successfully used to describe the phenomenon produced by hydrodistillation in O. vulgare essential oil.