Chekwube A Ezegbe^1,2 , John I Osaro³, Amarachi G Ezegbe⁴, Emeka E Ogbonna⁵, Ezinne C Okorafor⁶, Aliu A Ganiu², Samuel W Uzondu², Chisom G Ezegbe⁷

Abstract

This review examined the importance of supercritical CO₂ extraction and its industrial applications and scale-up. The need to have a sustainable development in order to tackle environmental concerns has led to the discovery of more efficient and safer alternatives to organic solvents. When a substance is pushed beyond its critical temperature and pressure, the distinction between the liquid and vapor phases vanishes, resulting in a homogenous fluid that possesses tunable physicochemical properties. Among the various candidates for supercritical applications, carbon dioxide (CO₂) stands out as the premier choice. Supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO₂) signifies the future fluid for next-generation power supply systems, operating above its critical point (31.1 °C, 73.0 bar) with its gas-like mass transfer and liquid-like density. The green-solvent properties of supercritical (scCO₂) are highly dependent on its density, pressure and temperature. Its relatively mild critical parameters (31.1 °C and 73.0 bar), combined with its non-toxicity, non-flammability, and low cost, have made the application of supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO₂) relevant in free radical polymerization. This unique behavior has revolutionized industries that previously relied on toxic organic solvents and energy-intensive thermal processes.