Optimization of Supercritical Fluid Extraction for Enhanced Yield of Gingerol Compounds from Ginger Oleoresin: A Pilot-Scale Study

Abstract

Supercritical Fluid Extraction (SCFE), a prominent technique utilized for the extraction of essential oils from plant materials, offers several advantages over conventional extraction methods like distillation or solvent extraction. For instance, it provides enhanced extraction efficiency, shorter extraction duration, the preservation of oil quality and aroma, and reduced environmental impact. Here, we reported an optimization study that was conducted at the pilot scale for the Supercritical Fluid Extraction (SCFE) of ginger oil from ginger oleoresin. This study aimed to investigate the influence of extraction temperature, extraction pressure, and CO₂ flow rate on the yield of gingerol compounds, particularly 6-gingerol and total gingerol [1]. Additionally, different absorbents, namely activated charcoal and polyacrylamide-coated silica, were introduced into the extraction column to assess their impact on the extraction process. The results revealed that incorporating polyacrylamide-coated silica as an absorbent in the extraction column yielded the highest percentage of 6-gingerol and total gingerol content. Conversely, the lowest values were observed in the absence of an absorbent. Optimal conditions [2] for achieving maximum 6-gingerol (36.7%) and total gingerol (53.04%) content were determined to be within the temperature range of 40°C to 60°C and the pressure range of 150 to 250 bar during SCFE. The quantification of 6-gingerol and total gingerol content was performed using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), providing reliable experimental data for analysis and comparison purposes. Overall, these findings underscore the efficacy of SCFE coupled with polyacrylamide-coated silica as an absorbent for the extraction of ginger oil, offering potential applications in various industries, such as food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.

References:

[1] Salea R., Veriansyah, B., Tjandrawinata R R., (2017) Optimization and scale-up process for supercritical fluids extraction of ginger oil from Zingiber officinale var. Amarum. The Journal of Supercritical Fluids. 120: 2 (285-294).

[2] Subroto E., Widjojokusumo E., Veriansyah B., Tjandrawinata R R., (2017) Supercritical CO2 extraction of candlenut oil: process optimization using Taguchi orthogonal array and physicochemical properties of the oil. Journal of Food Science and Technology. 54(5): 1286–1292.