Supercritical fluid extraction is the process of separating one component from another using supercritical fluids as the extracting solvent. Extraction is usually from a solid matrix, but can also be from liquids.

What do you mean by supercritical fluid extraction?

Supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) is the process of separating one component (the extractant) from another (the matrix) using supercritical fluids as the extracting solvent. ... Extraction conditions for supercritical carbon dioxide are above the critical temperature of 31 °C and critical pressure of 74 bar.

How does supercritical fluid extraction work?

SFE is a highly selective method using pressurized fluids as solvents. A supercritical fluid originates from a fluid being forced to pressure and temperature that is above its critical point causing the liquid and gas phases to become indistinguishable from each other.