This paper aims at the potential and unexplored improvements imbedded in the essential oil (EO) extraction processes. These processes are worldwide recognized by their low yields and high energy demands, becoming a target to be addressed to improve cost, reliability and quality indicators. A strategic thinking is presented, as a guide, with focus on enabling better business results through the TDC (Total Delivered Cost) optimization and the impact over gross margin in this promising segment. A basic process was evaluated, step by step, to then add technology improvements. The resulting impacts were assessed, improving yield from 1% to 1.2%. Such improvements are discussed in terms of digital technology contribution with the expected positive effects.

This paper focuses on essential oil (EO) extraction via steam distillation and the technological possibilities to enhance both operational and environmental performances. Being steam distillation the most common extraction method (93% of the worldwide produced volume) the inefficiencies in these production systems become a concrete target for improvements. A green extraction approach is brought, side by side with technology upgrade, in order to creating an evolutionary path for this industry, starting from a real process design in its current technology status, property of Linax Indústria e Comércio de Óleos Essenciais, and applying digital technology to enhance process effectiveness both in terms of material and energy balances, with direct effects over environmental performance.