capsaicin

Extraction, purification and formation of micro and nanoparticles of capsaicin using pressurized CO₂

This project explored the advantages of supercritical carbon dioxide in different steps of processing extracts from vegetal sources, as alternative to using toxic organic solvents or methods that apply high temperatures. Initially, extracts were obtained using supercritical CO₂ as solvent, promoting an easy separation of the extracts through simple pressure reduction. Next, the purified fractions will be submitted to processes to form micro or nanoparticles, aiming to prevent the degradation of the bioactive compounds, and achieve their slow release in the target systems. Polymers were used as coating material, and supercritical CO₂ as antisolvent. Two techniques (SAS and SFEE) were applied in this step. The produced particles were evaluated in terms of their size, uniformity, morphology, concentration and stability of the bioactive compounds. Finally, the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of the extracts and the encapsulated compounds will be evaluated through specific tests.

Financing agencies: FAPESP (2011/08656-7), CNPq (474433/2011-1), FAEPEX – UNICAMP