Supercritical Fluid Extraction (SFE) utilizes supercritical carbon dioxide as a solvent for efficient and selective extraction of compounds. It is eco-friendly, offers high extraction rates, and allows the recycling of solvents, making it advantageous for use in food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and environmental science. However, the initial setup cost can be high and its effectiveness may be limited for polar compounds.

1. Supercritical Fluid Extraction
(SFE)
An Overview of Process, Features,
and Applications

2. What is Supercritical Fluid
Extraction?
• • SFE uses a supercritical fluid (above its
critical temperature and pressure) as a
solvent.
• • Most commonly used supercritical fluid:
Carbon dioxide (CO₂).
• • Combines properties of liquids and gases for
efficient extraction.

3. Key Features of SFE
• • **Selective Extraction**: Targets specific
compounds by adjusting pressure and
temperature.
• • **Eco-Friendly**: Minimal toxic solvents
used.
• • **Efficient**: High extraction rates with
minimal thermal degradation.
• • **Reusable Solvent**: CO₂ is recyclable,
reducing costs.

4. Applications of SFE
• • **Food Industry**: Decaffeination, essential
oils, flavor compounds.
• • **Pharmaceuticals**: Extraction of active
plant compounds.
• • **Cosmetics**: Extraction of natural
skincare and haircare ingredients.
• • **Environmental Science**: Removal of
contaminants from soil and water.

5. Advantages and Limitations
• **Advantages**:
• • High selectivity and efficiency.
• • Environmentally friendly and reusable
solvent.
• **Limitations**:
• • High initial equipment cost.
• • Limited solubility for polar compounds (may
require co-solvents).

6. How It Works
• 1. Raw material is placed in an extraction
vessel.
• 2. Supercritical CO₂ is passed through the
material under controlled conditions.
• 3. Target compounds are dissolved and carried
to a separator.
• 4. Pressure or temperature is reduced to
precipitate the compounds.
• 5. CO₂ is recycled for reuse.