As part of Lubrizol’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, we are continuously exploring new technologies that not only enhance life, but also minimize our impact on the environment. Among these is Phenobio™ subcritical water technology, an eco-friendly and high-performing solution for botanical extraction.

Phenobio™ subcritical water technology is unique in that it manipulates water temperature and pressure in such a way that the behavior of water as a solvent changes, as its polarity becomes similar to different organic solvents. This eliminates the need for added chemicals.

Compared to water and glycerin-based alternatives, Phenobio™ subcritical water technology has a better extraction efficiency with no thermal degradation and a broader recovery range of phytoactives from plants. This leads to more concentrated ingredients that will have an expected higher efficacy for skin and hair.

The proof is in the testing.

Our scientists compared the phytochemical composition of extracts made from green tea, cucumber, and chamomile using three different techniques, including subcritical water, hot water, and glycerin.

More effective.

Tests showed that Phenobio™ subcritical water technology boosted the recovery of phenolic and polyphenol compounds, leading to more enriched and concentrated extracts. This sustainable technology™ also offered botanical extracts with higher antioxidant efficacy.

More environmentally friendly.

Compared to conventional extraction processes, this technology offered a host of environmental benefits, as it required less feedstock, water and energy.

The new data tells a compelling sustainability story:

No chemical solvents used
26% less feedstock
7x shorter extraction time
27% energy savings
64% water savings
100% compostable biomass post extraction

All told, Phenobio™ subcritical water technology unlocks a world of new possibilities within botanical extracts while at the same time helping to protect the environment.

New data reveals environmental and performance advantages of Phenobio™ subcritical water technology