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FAIR-CT97-3713
Calendula as agronomic raw material for industrial applications (CARMINA) |
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Type of Project | Shared Cost |
| Contract No | FAIR-CT97-3713 | |
| Total Cost | 2,835,050 ECU | |
| EC Contribution | 1,469,996 ECU | |
| Start Date | 01/04/98 | |
| Duration | 36 Months |
Calendula as agronomic raw material for industrial applications (CARMINA)
Objectives
Technical Approach
The project is divided into two working units:
Primary production
Calendula genotypes investigated in the VOSFA programme showed considerable diversity in flower structure and site stem branching crop height, flowering period and maturity. However, the results indicated potential for integration into current crop production systems, utilising existing equipment. Several constraints remain to be solved before this crop can be grown economically. By applying modern breeding technology, performing crop physiology studies, studying genotype x environment interactions and investigating seed cleaning and processing systems capable of meeting the specifications of the oil extraction processes, improved cultivars and production systems will be developed for the main production areas of Europe. Furthermore, technology to meet the seed cleaning specification of oil extraction production will be developed.
Processing, refinement and industrial applications
The extreme reactivity of calendic acid makes Calendula oil interesting for several industrial applications but at the same time causes difficulties in processes related to extraction and refinement. These problems can be overcome by using mild process techniques especially designed for the production of extremely reactive oils. CARMINA is directed towards the development of the best technology to process speciality oil (Calendula oil) from seeds. Refinement methods will be investigated in order to produce different oils that meet the various requirements of the specific applications investigated in this programme (i.e. plant surfactants, polyurethane foams, and lubricants). Functional ingredients present in flower-head extracts may be of interest for application as food and/or feed ingredients. Based on the present knowledge further research activities are proposed to identify specific high value applications. In addition, the utilisation of Calendula meal as livestock feed ingredient will be investigated. Calendula oils were produced and tested in the VOSFA programme. Only a limited use in paint formulations was possible due to sub-optimal quality of the oil. Major improvement is expected when oil will become available from mild extraction and refinement processes. In CARMINA these oils will be made and tested. Other industrial research activities conducted in CARMINA are related to the synthesis and characterisation of speciality surfactants for application in lubricants, pharmaceuticals, disinfectant, agrochemical and cleaning products. Finally, the production of high performance polyurethane foam products from Calendula oil will be tested and evaluated. In CARMINA the production, processing and testing of Calendula oil will be integrated through continuous quality monitoring, product evaluation and information feedback up the production chain.
Calendula officinalis
Contacts
Coordinator
EC Scientific Officer
Participant
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