Mini-review: green sustainable processes using supercritical fluid carbon dioxide

Area of Science:

• Green Chemistry
• Chemical Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Conventional organic solvents pose environmental and economic challenges.
• Supercritical fluids, particularly carbon dioxide, offer unique properties for industrial applications.
• There is a growing need for sustainable alternatives in chemical manufacturing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the applications of supercritical fluid carbon dioxide (SF-CO2) as a sustainable solvent.
• To highlight SF-CO2's potential in key and emerging industrial processes.
• To discuss the economic aspects of SF-CO2 technology.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on supercritical fluid carbon dioxide applications.
• Analysis of industrial processes where SF-CO2 can replace organic solvents.
• Consideration of energy and water efficiency in SF-CO2 processes.

Main Results:

• SF-CO2 is effective in chemical extraction, purification, and synthesis, including polymerization and catalysis.
• Applications extend to biochemical reactions, particle engineering, textile dyeing, and advanced materials.
• SF-CO2 processes can significantly reduce or eliminate the need for hazardous organic solvents.

Conclusions:

• Supercritical fluid carbon dioxide presents a viable and sustainable alternative to conventional organic solvents.
• The technology supports energy and water-efficient manufacturing processes.
• Further research and implementation of SF-CO2 technology are crucial for green industrial practices.