| abstract |
An apparatus ( 10′ ) for extracting biomass includes an extractor ( 11 ), evaporator ( 12 ), compressor ( 13 ) and condenser ( 14 ) connected in series by pipework ( 17 ) to define a closed loop extraction circuit. A transfer line ( 18 ) selectively supplies hot solvent vapor from the outlet side of the compressor ( 13 ) to the interior of the extractor ( 11 ), where the solvent vapor heats the biomass. This causes stripping of solvent from the biomass. The transfer line ( 18 ) includes control elements ( 19,20 ) for controlling the flow of solvent vapor. |