Subcritical water extraction of bioactive components from algae

摘要

Subcritical water extraction (SWE) is presented in this chapter as a potent and novel alternative to conventional solvent extraction processes for isolating bioactive components from algae. SWE is defined as extraction with water at temperatures ranging from boiling point to the critical temperature and at pressures high enough to keep the water in a liquid state throughout the extraction process. Water has many advantages when used as solvent since it is environmentally friendly and sustainable, and some of its physical and chemical properties can be modified by heating. This chapter discusses interesting current applications of this technology as well as the potential of other applications which could be successfully developed under SWE conditions.