Application and development of supercritical fluid technology under the “dual carbon” background

Over the past forty years, supercritical fluid (SCF) technology has made significant progress in both fundamental research and engineering applications. In recent years, SCF technology, as a green, clean and efficient technology, has successfully applied in many fields such as extraction, separation, chemical reaction, materials preparation and drying. In addition, it has also showed potential applications in spraying, waterless dyeing, power and extractions of oils and gases. SCF technology is expected to play an important role in realizing the national “dual carbon” strategy. The SCF that most commonly used is carbon dioxide (CO₂), which is also the best use of CO₂. SCF spraying technology can realize low or no emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and reduce or avoid the use of organic solvents; SCF waterless dyeing technology can decrease the discharge of dye-containing waste water and save water resources; The scCO₂ fracturing technology can facilitate CO₂ sequestration and enhance shale gas extraction; SCF foaming technology can produce lightweight functional polyester materials; SCF drying technology can retain the original structure and shape of the material to the maximum extent. Additionally, supercritical CO₂power generation technology can improve the current state of thermal power generation. Under the background of dual carbon, to promote the enthusiasm of academia and industry in China for SCF technology research and development, this paper summarized the new SCF technologies in various fields, their current application status, and development prospects, and points out the key directions for SCF technology applications in different fields.