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Supercritical fluids are substances
above their critical temperature. In this phase, the characteristics
and properties of the fluid are intermediate between those
of a liquid and those of a gas.
The generic expression "dense phase" groups
the various phases of a substance ranging from liquid
to subcritical to supercritical. In these phases, C02
for example is ideally suited to replace organic solvents
in several industrial processes, offering an alternative
which is absolutely environmentally friendly and not much
more expensive when all factors are considered.
There are many possible fields of industrial application
for dense phase fluids, ranging from the food to the pharmaceutical
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from the chemical
to the agroindustrial, and many more.
In each field, the opportunities to use these fluids are
virtually unlimited. The gradual involvement of researchers,
universities and industrial organizations is leading to
the discovery of many other possible applications.
The widespread interest in these substances is based on
at least two facts: first of all, they allow to reduce
the use of organic solvents, which are notoriously toxic
for human beings and have a high environmental impact,
secondly, the quality of the extracts is far higher because
there are no solvent residues and low temperatures are
used, avoiding degradation of the product.
With respect to other processes, it is not necessary,
for example, to use water, which is becoming an increasingly
precious resource with consequently mounting costs due
to its gradual shortage. C02, instead, is almost inexhaustible
and its cost is very low.
The only limitation of these processes is the operating
pressure, which is usually between 60 and 400 bar. Accordingly,
it is necessary to produce plants which can operate at
very high pressures yet are safe enough for operators
and conveniently priced for competing with conventional
processes, which are performed at atmospheric pressure.
Here are some examples of the main industrial applications
of dense phase fluids:
FOOD. Separation of flavors, fats and contaminants.
PHARMACEUTICAL. Extraction of active components,
preparation of natural products, vitamins.
COSMETIC. Extraction of fragrances and oils.
CHEMICAL. Purification of extracts, impregnation,
micronization.
AGRICULTURE. Extraction of pesticides and soil
contaminants.
LAUNDRY. Dry cleaning of garments.
MECHANICAL. Degreasing of parts, precision cleaning
of high-value components. |
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