Supercritical CO2 extraction of oil from Moroccan unroasted Argan Kernels: Effects of process parameters to produce cosmetic oil

Abstract

The effects of process parameters: pressure (200 – 400 bar), temperature (313 – 333 K), and flow rate (0.11 – 0.27 kg/h) on the efficiency of extraction process of Argan oil by supercritical CO2 were investigated using response surface methodology and mathematical modelling (Sovová’s mathematical model). The fastest extraction kinetics corresponding to the optimal operating conditions were obtained at 400 bar, 333 K at a CO2 flow rate of 0.11 kg corresponding to a residence time of about 8.8 min. A tocopherol rich oil can be obtained at the beginning of the extraction experiment.