Optimisation of supercritical fluid extraction

Abstract

Humulus lupulus L. commonly known as hop is a major constituent in the production of beer. Cones of the hop are used in brewering to add bitterness and aroma to beer. Also it is known in folk medicine due to its antibacterial activity and preservative properties. Dry hops contains 0.5 – 2.0 % of essential oil. The traditional method for their analysis is based on isolation by steam distillation followed by gas chromatographic analysis. In this research the supercritical fluid extraction – environmet friendly method – was used for extraction of essential oils from Humulus lupulus L. The influence of various parameters on extraction recovery was analysed. [...]