Vacuum Filtering of Winterized Oil-Ethanol Solutions

Vacuum filtration accelerates the separation of waxes and lipids, reducing processing time and improving clarity. It also minimizes solvent loss compared to gravity methods. 

Keep the solution between -20°C and -40°C. This ensures waxes remain solid and are effectively captured by the filter. 

Use qualitative filter paper with a pore size between 11 µm and 20 µm. For finer filtration, consider double-stacking or using a pre-filter. 

Yes, but it must be distilled to remove residual waxes and contaminants. Reuse is common in closed-loop systems. 

Clogging typically results from insufficient winterization or using filter paper with too fine a pore size. Adjusting temperature and pre-filtering can help. 

When the flow rate drops significantly and the filtrate runs clear, the process is done. Avoid over-filtering, which can lead to ethanol evaporation and loss.