Carbon dioxide extraction is a method of extracting compounds from a substance using pressurized carbon dioxide (CO2) as a solvent. This technique is commonly used in the food, pharmaceutical, and essential oil industries.
In this process, CO2 is pressurized and heated until it reaches a supercritical state, where it has properties of both a liquid and a gas. This supercritical CO2 is then used to extract the desired compounds from the substance. The CO2 is then depressurized, allowing the extracted compounds to be collected.
Carbon dioxide extraction is a safe and efficient method of extraction, as CO2 is non-toxic and non-flammable. It also allows for selective extraction of specific compounds and can be easily adjusted for different substances. Additionally, the extracted compounds are generally of high purity and do not contain residual solvents.
Carbon dioxide extraction can be used to extract a wide range of substances, including essential oils, flavors, fragrances, and pharmaceutical compounds. It is also commonly used for decaffeination of coffee and tea.
While carbon dioxide extraction has many advantages, there are some limitations to this method. It can be a costly process due to the equipment and energy required, and it may not be suitable for extracting certain heat-sensitive compounds. Additionally, the high pressure and temperature used in this process may alter the chemical composition and properties of the extracted compounds.