Supercritical fluid extraction platform

Supercritical Fluid Extraction (SFE) technology takes advantage of the unique properties of a gas, Carbon Dioxide, CO2, at temperatures and pressures approaching and exceeding its critical point. At this state, it has a high density, typical of a liquid, as well as a high diffusivity, characteristic of a gas. The technology that arises out of this science is a totally new way of conducting extractions that overcomes inherent limitations in conventional fluid extraction and distillation. The critical temperature of CO2 is 31ºC. This means, an extraction in the supercritical region will be at relatively mild temperatures compared to distillation. SFE is a green technology, as this method of extraction does not utilise organic solvents, which have harmful effects. The SFE technology also possesses another trait; a controlled release capability by varying pressures which produces fine powders, leading to standardised extracts.