Chemical refining is a conventional oil refining process where free fatty acids are removed by alkali neutralization using caustic soda, offering strong adaptability for variable or low-quality crude oils.
Best suited for soft oils with low FFA but high phospholipids such as cottonseed and soybean oil
Soapstock by-product is commonly used in soap manufacturing and feed applications
Requires wastewater treatment due to higher effluent generation
Still preferred where crude oil quality is inconsistent or degumming efficiency is limited
