Solvent extraction, biomass hydrocarbon-containing

Figure 8 illustrates one of the processing schemes used for separating various components in a hydrocarbon-containing plant. Acetone extraction removes the polyphenols, glycerides, and sterols, and benzene extraction removes the hydrocarbons. If the biomass species in question contain low concentrations of the nonhydrocarbon components, exclusive of the carbohydrate and protein fractions, direct extraction of the hydrocarbons with benzene or a similar solvent might be preferred. 

FIGURE 10.1 Example of solvent extraction scheme for separating various components in hydrocarbon-containing biomass. 

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