Extraction of Aconitic Acid from Cane Molasses by Solvent Extraction

This paper details research involving experimental trials of acid extraction from cane molasses using amine or phosphate extractants contained within an organic diluent. The varied conditions were extractant type, molasses concentration, pH and diluent type. The results showed that almost complete extraction (95%) of trans-aconitic acid could be effected from diluted molasses using TBP or Alamine 336 in a non-polar diluent. The extraction of other acids (oxalic, malic and citric) was significantly less, hence a process to produce high purity aconitic acid based on this method is technically feasible.