TITLE:
Optimization of Deacidification of Degummed Palm Kernel Oil with Kolanut Pod Ash Using Response Surface Methodology
AUTHORS:
Adeyinka Idowu Alao, Babatunde Kazeem Adeoye, Tunde Isaac Ogedengbe, Ugo Nwitte-Eze, Racheal Temitope Adesina, Deborah Adewunmi Oluwarotimi, Odunayo Deborah Akinwumi
KEYWORDS:
Palm Kernel Oil, Deacidification, Kolanut Pod Ash, Response Surface Methodology, Free Fatty Acids, Optimization
JOURNAL NAME:
Advances in Chemical Engineering and Science,
Vol.16 No.3,
July
9,
2026
ABSTRACT: Deacidification of crude palm kernel oil (CPKO) remains a critical challenge in developing countries, where conventional chemical refining methods are energy-intensive and economically prohibitive for small-scale processors. This study investigated the optimization of CPKO deacidification using kolanut pod ash as an eco-friendly bio-adsorbent through Response Surface Methodology (RSM) with Central Composite Design. Three process variables were evaluated: reaction time (10 - 30 minutes), temperature (60˚C - 70˚C), and kolanut pod ash dosage (1% - 5% w/w). There was 91% free fatty acid (FFA) content reduction. A significant quadratic model (F-value = 3.82, p = 0.0242) with Adjusted R2 of 0.5718 was obtained. The influential factors were reaction time (p = 0.0111), kolanut pod ash dosage (p 2/100g), acid values (7.18 - 51.02 mg KOH/g), and saponification values (250.67 - 290.12 mg KOH/g). This research demonstrates that kolanut pod ash can serve as an effective, low-cost, and green alternative to synthetic refining agents.