Extraction of wood compounds by use of subcritical fluids

Summary A study of the extraction of oak wood compounds with subcritical water-ethanol mixtures as extractants, with an ethanol content between 0 and 60%, is reported. Identification and characterization of the extracted compounds were achieved by spectrophotometry and by gas chromatography with either flame ionization or mass spectrometric detection. Extraction was performed statically by use of a single cycle or repeated cycles. All variables affecting the extraction process were studied and optimized. Extraction time and temperature were 60 min and 200°C, respectively. Comparison of the extract thus obtained with commercial extracts showed the former to be rich in compounds characteristic of the commercial extracts. The method also enables manipulation of extract composition by changing the temperature and the water/ethanol ratio used. It is faster than traditional procedures for obtaining wood extracts.