362L Steam Distillation of an Essential Oil (#2)

362L Steam Distillation of an Essential Oil (#2)

May 4, 2021 Off By editorialteam



An herb (approx. 5 grams) is steam distilled. The essential oil is extracted from the distillate with DCM, which is then removed by rotovap. Two spotting chemical tests (Baeyer’s and 2,4-DNP) and IR spectroscopy are used to analyze the steam-distilled DCM-extracted essential oil.

The term “steam distillation” is used loosely, more accurately the process is a hydrodistillation since the water and herb are contained in the same vessel.

Educational, non-profit purposes only. Safety goggles, protective clothing, and use of a chemical fume are required. Not intended for replication beyond Eastern Kentucky University.

Chemistry lab at Eastern Kentucky University, U.S.
www.youtube.com/user/ekuchemlab

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