Fractionation of Marigold Waxy Extract Using Supercritical CO2

Marigold oil is a product of great industrial interest thanks to its wide range medicinal and wound-healing properties. In this work, supercritical carbon dioxide was used recover marigold essential from the hexane solvent extract flowers, floral “concrete”. This starting material mixed with synthetic paraffinic waxes heighten melting point viscosity, thus, improving processability. Supercritical fluid extraction fractionation modified “concrete” carried out, effect pressure CO2 mass flow rate studied. The varied 80 180 bar, keeping temperature constant at 40 °C: higher pressure, larger power yield (up 9.40% w/w). Nevertheless, optimum between productivity process selectivity found 100 bar. By changing (from 1.20 1.50 kg/h), we noted that transfer resistance located externally. GC-MS analysis showed most abundant compounds in were δ-cadinene (25%), γ-cadinene (16%), τ-muurolol (6.5%), α-muurolene (6%). Moreover, traces no mutual contamination lighter species waxes, meaning step successful.