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Production of micro-to nano-sized particles of b-carotene was investigated by means of solution-enhanced dispersion by supercritical fluids (SEDS). b-Carotene was dissolved in dichloromethane (DCM), N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF), n-hexane, or ethyl acetate, and supercritical CO 2 served as an antisolvent. The effects of the organic solvents, operating pressure, and temperature were examined. The morphologies of the particles produced by the SEDS were observed by field emission-scanning electron microscopy and particle sizes were determined by image analysis. Irregularly shaped microparticles were produced in the system with DCM and DMF solution. Plate-like microparticles were generated by using n-hexane solution and irregular nanoparticles by ethyl acetate solution. The optimum operating conditions were found to be ethyl acetate as solvent in a defined pressure and temperature range.

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