Super Critical Fluid Extraction

A supercritical fluid is a state of matter where a substance is at a temperature and pressure above its critical point. At this point, the liquid and gas phases of the substance merge into one phase with unique properties.

 

Supercritical fluids can diffuse through solids like a gas and dissolve materials like a liquid. Carbon dioxide is a common example, widely used in various applications due to its moderate critical temperature and pressure.

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Supercritical fluids, particularly supercritical CO2, are used for extraction due to their unique properties.

For example, supercritical fluids exhibit tunable solvency, low viscosity, and high diffusivity, and leave no residue; they are non-toxic and environmentally friendly. 

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Supercritical CO2 is non-toxic and non-flammable, making it safer and more environmentally friendly than organic solvents.   SCFE also leaves no solvent residue in the extracted products, which is crucial for food, pharmaceuticals, and other applications with increasingly strict rules on residual solvent content. The process can be quicker and more efficient compared to traditional solvent extraction due to the enhanced solubility and diffusion properties.

Due to the high pressures and the complex process design, it is essential to use a vendor you trust.

 

Key aspects in equipment selection for supercritical fluid applications include material compatibility, pressure and temperature control, safety features, ease of maintenance and cleaning, and cost-effectiveness.