ENERGY SOURCES, vol.23, no.1, pp.55-62, 2001 (SCI-Expanded)
Supercritical fluid extraction (SCFE) can reduce sample preparation time, and the methods of recovery can equal or better that of classical extraction techniques for solid and semisolid samples. The properties of a supercritical fluid (SCF) can also improve extraction efficiency and speed. The process is based on the use of dual effect (extraction and entrainment) SCF solvents. In this study, hazelnut samples was subjected to Soxhlet and SCFE with different solvents. The yields of the SCFEs were found to be higher compared to those obtained by simple Soxhlet extractions. The products obtained from both extractions were fractionated to saponifiables (fats or oils) and unsaponifiables were found to be less than 10% of total extraction products. Typically unstable compounds such as dienoic fatty acids can be easily decomposed in the SCFE at high temperature and pressure.