Abstract:

Based on the single factor experimental results, response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to optimize the process conditions for extracting essential oil form the caculis of Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill with supercritical fluid carbon dioxide (SF-CO2). A three-factor, five-level central composite design (CCD) was used to provide experimental data for establishing a regression model describing the SF-CO2 extraction. Extraction pressure, extraction temperature, CO2 flow rate and cross-interaction between extraction pressure or temperature and CO2 flow rate exhibited a significant effect on oil extraction yield. The optimal extraction conditions were found to be: extraction pressure, 36.32 MPa; extraction temperature, 42.27 ℃; and CO2 flow rate,17.01 L/h. The extraction yield of oil was 0.432% under these optimal extraction conditions, which was in good agreement with the value predicted by the regression model. This method is characterized by low energy consumption and pollution as well as high efficiency.

Key words: Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill, caculis, oil, supercritical fluid CO2 extraction, response surface methodology