The recovery of caffeine by extraction with supercritical carbon dioxide is
extremely selective. The typical taste of coffee remains untouched. The used
carbon dioxide can be taken from air or fermentation processes and, hence, it
does not disturb the global carbon dioxide balance. Moreover, the extraction
with supercritical carbon dioxide replaces the solvent extraction processes
with chlorinated hydrocarbons and contributes this way to reduce the emission
of ozone killers.
GEA Messo PT has been partner in the development
of these technologies with the recovery of caffeine in highest quality grades.
The essentials of all the alternates in these recovery processes are to avoid
the formation of colours hindering the production of a white product. This is
attained by the avoidance of elevated temperatures and/or entrance of oxygen to
the product solutions.
GEA Messo PT has collected experiences and
performed plant supplies for the water-based CO2 recovery as well as
the recovery via activated carbon adsorption. The photo shows the reverse
osmosis rack used for a caffeine pilot plant arrangement.