Extraction Systems
Supercritical fluid extraction (SFE), the process of separating one component from another, is increasingly preferred to conventional extraction methods because it is simple, fast, inexpensive, effective and selective.
PROCESS
SFE can be used to either remove unwanted material from a product (e.g. decaffeination) or collect a desired product from a solid matrix (e.g. essential oils from herbs). It can also be used on smaller scale as a preparatory step for analytical purposes. Unlike in conventional liquid extraction where residual solvents are often left behind in the extracted solid matrix and the extracted phase, and environmental contamination occurs, SFE leaves almost no residues and is environmentally benign.
The process relies on the solubility of the extracted compound in supercritical CO2. Like in all our processes at FeyeCon, process parameters such as pressure and temperature can be altered, allowing for selective extraction. For example, volatile oils can be extracted from plant material at low pressures and both oils and lipids can be extracted using higher pressure. Thanks to no surface tension and low viscosity, the carbon dioxide is able to penetrate into even the tiniest of pores.
EQUIPMENT
FeyeCon has been an industry forerunner in SFE equipment and technology. Our extraction systems are operating across the globe, from Europe to Asia. We currently operate an in-house pilot facility for product development and we offer custom made, industrial designs and machines. Contact us for details.
APPLICATIONS
There exists a wide range of applications of SFE, from food processing and environmental remediation to pharmaceutical and cosmetic products.
Supercritical fluid extraction has vast potential in the food and flavor industries. The decaffeination of tea and coffee, the extraction of essential oils and aromas from herbs and spices, as well as the extraction of edible oils are just a few key examples. The pharmaceutical industry can use this process to produce active ingredients without experiencing thermo or chemical degradation and eliminating residual solvents.
