Supercritical CO2 Extraction

Supercritical CO2 Extraction, CO2 Cannabis Extraction also known as Carbon Dioxide Separation, is the separation of one element from another by using ultra pure CO2 as the solvent. Extraction is typically from a semi-solid matrix, such as a sandstone slab, but can also be in solids. The procedure itself is quite simple and there are a number of carbon dioxide purification processes that can be performed.

The process used in the extraction of carbon dioxide is highly specialized. The CO2 is first extracted in its purest state. This can be done using heat, mechanical or chemical means. The solvent can either be injected into the sample or added at high pressure with a high vacuum.

The high pressure is used to create suction, which forces the carbon dioxide to the extraction vessel. The CO2, which is about 100 times more dense than air, begins to compress. This is done with the help of a high-pressure pump. The water-like carbon dioxide is then collected by the high-speed rotary agitator. The solvent extracted is typically a liquid solution.

As a secondary step, the extracted extractable material must undergo an electrochemical treatment to remove all the carbonates that were initially contained in the sample. The resulting solution is then used as a feedstock for carbon conversion.

In this procedure, the only way for the carbon dioxide to become CO2 again is by an electrochemical reaction between it and carbonate salts. This process of carbonation is known as 'capture' and it occurs when carbonate salts are introduced to an electrolytic cell.

The electrolysis involves converting the CO2 into a simpler form called carbonate, which then becomes a solution with a higher concentration of carbonates. This mixture is then introduced into the solvent chamber, where it is allowed to react with the captured carbonate ions to produce carbon dioxide, which is then ready to be extracted.

The process described above is an excellent way to extract supercritical CO2, however it is far from perfect. There are several steps that are still required to properly extract the carbonates, so this process should only be undertaken after a thorough research of the industry and extensive testing.

An excellent way to obtain a more complete understanding of the extraction process is to read books or watch videos on the subject. The internet can provide additional information, however, in most cases you will require more testing and experience before you attempt this process. An experienced professional will be able to advise you on the correct techniques.

Before the extraction process is carried out, the supercritical CO2 is first pumped into the chamber using a high-pressure pump. This process ensures that any trapped gases or carbonates are removed, allowing for the use of a high-pressure compressor.

Once the carbonates have been pumped, they are then mixed with a solvent such as ethanol. To aid the reaction, another solvent such as ethanol is used that can dissolve the carbonates without affecting the rest of the solution. It is necessary to have an extra supply of this solvent, in order to ensure that the solvent solution is always clean. at all times.

After a sufficient amount of solvent has been added, a carbonate solution is allowed to evaporate, this is usually done by exposing the catalyst to high temperatures and pressures. The solution containing carbonates is then passed through an electrothermal column in order to remove the solvent, leaving the carbonate residues behind.

The residue is then extracted by passing the extractant through the carbonate solution, which includes a process known as the 'boiling method'. The solution is then returned to the solvent chamber, where the supercritical CO2 solution is passed through a high-speed rotary agitator.

The carbonate solution is then passed through a high-speed rotating agitator at a temperature and pressure which can vary according to the demand of the job. The solvents used are usually methanol, but other types of solvents may be used, depending upon the requirements. The solution is then returned to the solvent chamber to be extracted.