Introduction to β-Carotene Extraction
β-Carotene is a natural pigment widely found in plants. It is approved as a food additive. It is also known for its antioxidant activity. Therefore, it attracts strong interest in the food and health industries.
However, traditional extraction relies on organic solvents. This causes solvent residue. It may also damage pigment quality. So, a cleaner method is required.
Why Use Supercritical CO2 Extraction
Supercritical CO2 extraction is a green technology. It is non-toxic. It leaves no solvent residue. It protects heat-sensitive compounds.
In addition, CO2 is recyclable. So, operating cost can be controlled. This makes it suitable for industrial production.
Raw Material and Equipment
Sweet potato powder was used as a raw material. It contains a high level of β-carotene. A small supercritical CO2 extraction system was applied. β-Carotene content was measured by UV–Vis spectrophotometry. This ensures accurate quantification.
Effect of Pretreatment Conditions
Moisture Content
Moisture strongly affects extraction efficiency. Higher moisture reduces β-carotene yield. When moisture exceeds 6%, extraction drops clearly.
Therefore, moisture should be controlled.
The optimal moisture content is around 4%.
Particle Size
Particle size influences mass transfer. Large particles slow diffusion. Very fine particles block the flow of CO2.
A balanced particle size is required. 60 mesh was found to be optimal.
Optimization of Supercritical CO2 Parameters
Extraction Pressure
Pressure increases CO2 density. Higher density improves solubility. β-Carotene yield rises with pressure.
However, above 25 MPa, improvement is limited.
So, 25 MPa is the optimal pressure.
Extraction Temperature
Temperature has a dual effect. It increases solute volatility. But it reduces CO2 density. Yield increases from 35°C to 50°C. Above 50°C, yield decreases.
Thus, 50°C is optimal.
CO2 Flow Rate
Low flow limits mass transfer. High flow reduces contact time. Both reduce efficiency. An optimal balance is needed.
15 L/h CO2 flow gives the best results.
Extraction Time
Yield increases rapidly in the first hours. After 4 hours, growth slows. So, a longer time adds little benefit.
The optimal extraction time is 4 hours.
Role of Co-Solvent
β-Carotene is weakly soluble in pure CO2. A co-solvent improves solubility. Acetone was used as an entrainer. At 5% acetone, the yield increases significantly. Higher amounts raise the cost but not the yield.
So, 5% is recommended.
Optimized Extraction Conditions
Based on this study, optimal conditions are:
- Moisture content: 4%
- Particle size: 60 mesh
- Pressure: 25 MPa
- Temperature: 50°C
- CO₂ flow rate: 15 L/h
- Extraction time: 4 h
- Co-solvent: 5% acetone
Under these conditions,
β-carotene yield reached 3.45 mg/g.
Industrial Significance
This study proves feasibility. It supports clean production. It reduces solvent risk. It protects product quality.
Therefore, supercritical CO2 extraction is suitable for:
- Food ingredients
- Natural pigments
- Functional compounds
FAQ
What is the advantage of supercritical CO2 extraction for β-carotene?
It is solvent-free, safe, and preserves the quality of the pigment.
Is high pressure required for β-carotene extraction?
No. Efficient extraction is achieved around 25 MPa.
Why control moisture and particle size?
They directly affect mass transfer and extraction efficiency.
Can this process be scaled up?
Yes. The parameters are suitable for industrial systems.
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