Abstract: Microwave-assisted extraction technology for oil from Dunaliella salina was investigated. Response surface methodology was used to optimize the extraction parameters on the basis of the extraction rate of the oil. Three independent factors such as material-liquid ratio, extraction time and extraction temperature were evaluated. The optimal extraction conditions were material-liquid ratio of 1:10 (g/mL), extraction temperature of 54 ℃ and extraction time of 9.7 min. Under the optimal extraction conditions, the extraction rate of oil from Dunaliella salina was (15.79 ± 0.97)%. The major components in Dunaliella salina oil were palmitic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid and linolenic acid with the contents of 13.85%, 5.30%, 8.60% and 23.75%, respectively.

Key words: Dunaliella salina, oil, microwave-assisted extraction, fatty acid composition