Optimization of Delonix Regia Seed Oil Extraction using Taguchi Orthogonal Array Design

This study applied a Taguchi L9(3⁴) orthogonal array to optimize the solvent‐extraction of oil from Delonix regia (Flamboyant) seeds. Four factors seed Powder weight (40–50 g), particle size (0.6–3.35 mm), n-hexane volume (200–250 mL), and extraction time (40–50 min) were each tested at three levels. A Soxhlet apparatus at 60 °C served for all nine experimental runs. Oil yield ranged from 2.07 to 6.34 wt. %, with the highest yield of 6.35 ± 0.01 wt. % achieved at 50 g powder, particle size of 0.6 mm, N-hexane volume of 225 mL solvent at extraction time of 40 min. Signal‐to‐noise and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) test revealed that particle size (p < 0.01) and Powder weight (p < 0.01) were the most influential parameters (ranked first and second), while solvent volume and time were less significant (p > 0.15). Findings using a linear regression model gave a yield variance of R² = 0.97. Confirmatory runs under optimized conditions reproduced the predicted yield within 0.2 % error. This approach comparatively delivers efficient oil recovery with minimal experimentation. Hence results from this study provides a robust basis for scaling up Delonix regia seed oil extraction in biodiesel and biosurfactant production.