Industrial Hemp Oil Extraction: Techniques, Optimization, Kinetics, Thermodynamics, and Sustainability

Industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) is valued for its fiber, seeds, and bioenergy potential. Its biomass is used for solid fuel, bioethanol, and biogas, while its oil is suitable for biodiesel. This review highlights seed pretreatment, oil extraction, and industrial hemp oil (IHO) physicochemical properties. It compares conventional and advanced extraction techniques, focusing on optimization, kinetics, thermodynamics, and techno-economic aspects. Solvent extraction outperforms mechanical pressing but is less efficient than Soxhlet extraction, which is time-intensive. Advanced methods generally yield more oil in a shorter time compared to conventional techniques. Research on IHO extraction remains limited, particularly in comparing traditional and modern methods. The composition of IHO varies significantly depending on the cultivar, geographical origin, climate, agricultural practices, and production methods. Future strategies aim to integrate hemp biomass into a biorefinery framework for sustainability. While IHO holds promise for renewable energy, challenges remain in scaling production, optimizing processes, and ensuring social responsibility.