To appreciate why, a basic understanding of the properties of such fluids are required. The fluid is neither properly a liquid or a gas but will, uniquely, exhibit some of the properties of both. A SCF combines the superior solvation properties associated with liquids with the enhanced transport properties of gases. The solvation power of the fluid can be altered by manipulating system temperature and pressure and through the use of modifying solvents. Supercritical fluid extraction processes rely on the ability for SCFs to diffuse into and extract target molecules or interferents from porous sample matrices.
Processes are typically rapid, user friendly and organic solvent free.
The Centre is currently developing novel extraction and chromatographic techniques in a range of areas, notably in oil analysis for environmental applications. Fundamental research is also directed at studying the behaviour of biologically active components, such as enzymes and antibodies in SCFs with the aim of developing a new generation of diagnostic tools.