Supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) of high-value essential oils and oleoresins from spices predominantly utilizes which solvent?
Options:
(A) Carbon dioxide ($\text{CO}_2$)
(B) Hexane
(C) Acetone
(D) Methylene chloride
Answer Key:
A
Step-by-Step Solution & Explanation
Carbon dioxide ($\text{CO}_2$) is the predominant supercritical solvent because of its mild critical parameters ($T_c = 31.1^\circ\text{C}, P_c = 7.38\text{ MPa}$), non-toxicity, non-flammability, low cost, and complete absence of chemical residue upon depressurization.