Response surface optimization of Smyrnium cordifolium Boiss (SCB) oil extraction via supercritical carbon dioxide

In this study, the essential oil of aerial parts of a species of a plant called Smyrnium cordifolium Boiss (SCB) was extracted by supercritical CO2. The essence was analyzed by the method of GC/MS. Design of experiments was carried out with response surface methodology by Minitab 16 software to optimize four operating variables of supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO2) extraction (pressure, temperature, CO2 flow rate and extraction dynamic time). This is the first report announcing optimization of the operation,of supercritical extraction of SCB in laboratorial conditions. Optimizing process was done to achieve maximum yield extraction. Independent variables were dynamic time (t(d)), pressure (P), temperature (T) and flow rate of SC-CO2 (Q) in the range of 30-150 min, 10-30 MPa, 40-60 degrees C and 0.5-1.7 ml/min, respectively. The experimental optimal recovery of essential oil (0.8431, w/w%) was obtained at 13.43 MPa, 40 degrees C, 150 min (dynamic) and 1.7 ml/min (CO2 flow rate). (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.