Supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) is a modern technology suitable for extracting valuable substances from natural sources. By taking advantage of the high solvating power and strong penetrating ability of substances under a supercritical state, SFE allows efficient extraction of bioactive compounds at moderate temperatures within an oxygen-free system.
What is supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2) extraction?
Supercritical carbon dioxide extraction is the same SFE using CO2 in a liquid state as a solvent. It ensures that the bioactive substances are extracted in their natural state, free of thermal and oxidation damage.
Often, carbon dioxide is used instead of conventional organic solvents as the solvating substance in a supercritical fluid extraction process. After extraction, CO2 is quickly and completely removed, resulting in pure extracts free of organic solvent residues.
In addition, the supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2) extraction process is friendly to the environment, and the extracts have optimal composition and quality.