This study used supercritical fluid extraction to successfully enhance the conditions for extracting oil from pomegranate seeds. To determine the optimal extraction conditions for maximizing pomegranate oil yield, the researchers employed a Box-Behnken design experimental strategy, involving three parameters with three levels each: extraction pressure, extraction temperature, and extraction time. To determine the optimal optimization conditions, the Response Surface Method (RSM) and the Artificial Neural Fuzzy Intelligent System (ANFIS) were also used. The results revealed a strong correlation with the experimental data, demonstrating that both strategies were helpful in optimizing the extraction process. The ideal extraction parameters, according to this study, were an extraction pressure of 40 MPa, an extraction temperature of 55 °C, and an extraction time of 120 min with a CO2 flow rate of 21.3 L/h.
Keywords: Box–Behnken design; adaptive neuro-fuzzy interference system; oil; percentage yield; pomegranate seed; response surface methodology.