Superheated liquids for the extraction of solid residues from winemaking processes

<p>Solid residues from winemaking process have been subjected to extraction with superheated water-ethanol mixtures. Identification and characterisation of the extracted compounds have been made by spectrophotometry, gas chromatography with either flame ionisation or mass detectors and high performance liquid chromatography with UV detection. The extraction has been performed in a static manner by single or repetitive cycles. All variables affecting the extraction process have been studied and optimised. The extraction time and temperature are 65 min and 210ºC, respectively. Two phases constitute the extract: an aqueous phase, which is rich in phenol compounds and an oily phase, mainly formed by fatty acids. The method allows manipulation of the extract composition by changing the applied pressure, temperature, water-ethanol ratio and pH. The method is faster than the traditional extraction procedures for obtaining valuable compounds from these residues.</p>