Fraunhofer Institute for Environmental, Safety and Energy Technology UMSICHT
Impregnation by means of supercritical carbon dioxide
The use of compressed carbon dioxide (CO2 ) for impregnation offers a sustainable alternative to conventional environmentally harmful solvents. The advantage of functionalizing materials in this way is that only the layers close to the surface are affected, thus optimizing the yield of active ingredients. Furthermore, the CO2 impregnation process makes it possible to finish perfectly shaped components close to ambient temperature and to remove the solvent without leaving any residue. The result: less environmental impact and material savings.
Supercritical carbon dioxide as solvent
During impregnation, the pressurized CO2 acts as a solvent, combining the advantages of a gas and a liquid in a "supercritical" state. In this state, the CO2 acquires the properties of a solvent and transports the additive into the material. To separate the CO2 after impregnation, only the pressure needs to be lowered, in contrast to previous energy-intensive processes. The solvent properties gained from the CO2 are lost again, and the CO2 can be collected without residue and reused.
Our value proposition
With the help of CO2 impregnation, we are able to functionalize a wide range of materials. In the simplest case, this can be the coloring of a component. Other examples include increasing the antimicrobial activity of a surface, the water-free tanning of hides or the introduction of thermolabile substances.
Suitable materials for impregnation include plastics, but also natural materials and foodstuffs. We will be happy to test whether the material relevant to you is suitable for CO2 impregnation.
Our unique technical equipment ranges from small plants to PLC-controlled plants on a technical scale. We can offer you a scale-up at our location, which allows realistic conclusions for the practical application in your company.
Your way to cooperation with us
The cooperation takes place in the scientific area on the basis of publicly funded research projects as well as in the context of industrial research in direct order for you. We will be happy to advise you on this.