What Is The Ultrasonic Extraction Method?

Ultrasonic extraction is an advanced technology that uses ultrasonic energy to extract active ingredients from raw materials. Ultrasonic waves are sound waves with frequencies above the human hearing range (typically greater than 20 kHz). When applied to a liquid, they generate numerous tiny bubbles in the liquid, a process known as cavitation.

These bubbles continuously form and collapse under the influence of ultrasound, instantly releasing intense localized heat, high pressure, and micro-jets. This creates a strong mechanical impact on the cell walls of the raw material, rupturing the cells and releasing the active ingredients into the solvent.

This method has significant advantages. First, it can be extracted at relatively low temperatures, making it ideal for heat-sensitive ingredients and avoiding the destruction of active ingredients caused by high temperatures. Second, ultrasonic extraction is fast and efficient, achieving higher extraction yields in a shorter time while reducing solvent usage, making it more environmentally friendly and energy-efficient. Furthermore, ultrasonic extraction equipment is simple to operate and can be easily scaled up for both laboratory and industrial applications.

Ultrasonic extraction is widely used in various fields. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is used to extract active medicinal ingredients from natural raw materials such as plants and fungi; in the food and beverage industry, it is used to extract flavors, pigments, and antioxidants; in the cosmetics industry, it is often used to extract plant essences for use in skin care products and perfume formulations; in the field of environmental science, it can also be used for the rapid extraction and analysis of pollutants in soil or water samples.