Characterization, fractionation, and compatibility properties of Litsea cubeba kernel oil with potential value for industrial application as a lauric acid-based oil source

Litsea cubeba kernels, produced as a by-product of L. cubeba essential oil, are rich in oils, particularly lauric acid. However, they are not adequately utilized. In this paper, L. cubeba kernel oil (LKO) was compared to traditional lauric acid-based oils (coconut oil [CNO] and palm kernel oil [PKO]) and a palmitic acid-based oil (palm olein, POL) to assess their compatibility and physicochemical differences. LKO fractions with various melting points were obtained. The fractions were analyzed for their acylglycerol composition, solid fat content, crystallization characteristics, polymorphism, and microstructure. LKO exhibited a complex fatty acid composition, including trace amounts of stearic acid (0.51%) and myristoleic acid (1.3%); small amounts of lauroleic acid (7.70%), capric acid (9.11%), and caprylic acid (10.89%); and a high amount of lauric acid (54.13%). The lauric acid content of the solid phase (LKST5) could be increased to 67.04 ± 0.96% after fractionation. In contrast to conventional lauric acid-based oils, LKO and its fractions are dominated by the β-form. In addition, the binary systems LKO/CNO and LKO/PKO displayed eutectic phenomena at XLKO= 0.9 and XLKO= 0.8, respectively. LKO/POL compatibility changed with increasing LKO ratio, gradually shifting from monotectic to eutectic to solid solutions. By analyzing the compatibilities and fractionation properties of LKO, potential industrial applications such as biodiesel and biolubricants can be explored. These uses would help promote the comprehensive use of oil by-products derived from oilseeds.