Method and device for extracting a fraction from a biological material using optical radiation

Abstract

A method for extracting a fraction from a biological material comprising the following steps of placing said biological material in a closed device comprising a reactor, exposing a surface of said material to optical radiation characterized by one or more wavelength(s) in the range from 380 to 780 nm, said radiation having an illuminance of said surface ranging from 10,000 lx to 299,000 lx, and thereby producing a fluid extract; and optionally collecting a fluid extract. An extract obtained by the method according to the invention.

Description

Description Title of the invention: Method and device for extracting a fraction from biological material using optical radiation technical field

[0001] The invention relates to the extraction of a fraction from biological material using optical radiation State of the art

[0002] The extraction of a part or fraction of a plant or animal material has always been of major interest to many sectors of activity, particularly to the cosmetics industry including perfumery, pharmaceuticals, parapharmaceuticals, veterinary, food and plant health industries.

[0003] Extraction processes are based on processes and technologies designed to remove, or entrain, a fraction of interest from a substrate. This fraction of interest can be extracted, or even solubilized, by a solvent in fluid form (gas, liquid, vapor) or trapped by adsorption onto a solid support. Conventional extraction techniques, such as maceration and / or distillation, are generally based on the use of a liquid solvent in direct contact with, or passing through, the biological material. These maceration and / or distillation techniques are well-known but have several disadvantages. The solvent dilutes the fraction of interest. It can interact with the material to be extracted and degrade it to some extent.The heating, concentration, and / or separation steps typically used in known extraction processes can also lead to losses and / or degradation of the compound(s) of interest. Furthermore, these steps are time-consuming, energy-intensive, and costly. Organic solvents such as hexane or methanol are known to be toxic. Even the use of a non-organic and non-toxic solvent, such as water, is undesirable, as water is an essential resource that must be conserved. Separately, some plant materials currently lack an industrial solution for extracting their unaltered fragrances; these include so-called "mute" flowers or white flowers.

[0004] Dedicated to the most delicate flowers, the traditional enfleurage technique is based on adsorption onto a solid support using fats, either hot or cold. To capture the compounds naturally emitted by the flowers, a fat, such as lard, tallow, or coconut oil, is spread on a flat surface to adsorb these compounds. Fresh flower petals are then placed on this fat. The petals must be replaced with new ones over several days, until the fat is saturated with the fragrance. Once the fat is saturated, it is called a pomade. This pomade can be used as is or transformed by mixing it with alcohol to extract the absorbed compounds after filtration or decantation. The alcohol is then concentrated by distillation, producing a highly concentrated absolute extract. This process is lengthy, which can lead to mold growth and thus defects.It is also expensive and requires a great deal of manual labor for a low yield. The use of an organic solvent and heating is likely to degrade or alter the fraction of interest. Patent application FR2837496A1 (Julliard Jacques Henry, 2002) discloses a solvent-free and heat-free extraction process under vacuum, exemplified with Ylang-Ylang flowers. The flowers or plants are frozen and then placed in stainless steel trays arranged on heated shelves at temperatures below 50°C. The closed chamber is necessarily kept under a vacuum of 0.5 mbar; at its base, the extract is condensed at -50°C. The extract is presented as an emulsion with a 95% yield. The aromas are then separated from the emulsion by adding sodium chloride followed by decantation; they are presented as being as close as possible to the aroma of the fresh plant. This process is nevertheless very energy-intensive.

[0005] Another known alternative for extracting fragile plant materials such as jasmine is the gas entrainment technique. A purified gas stream (for example, air or a mixture of air and water vapor) is introduced into the biological material, carrying away the most volatile fraction. This fraction is then conveyed to a cooling condenser or to a solid support such as activated carbon. Han-Chen Zhou (Food Chemistry 2019 Vol 286 P170-178) presents the potential of this solvent-free, large-scale technology for jasmine flowers, referencing patent application CN201410640845.7. 50kg are extracted over 2 periods of 6-8 hours with an air flow of 1 L / min conditioned at a temperature of 37°C and a humidity of 40%, condensation is carried out at -15°C, after centrifugation, 10L of aqueous condensate are collected, i.e. a yield of 20%.Patent application WO2017 / 192527A1 (Natural Extraction System) describes an example applied to cannabis with gas temperatures of 157°C, 160°C, and 220°C, involving the simultaneous execution of a condensation and centrifugation step between -15°C and 10°C, depending on the expert's choice. This process requires significant energy, particularly electrical energy, for gas circulation, cooling, and centrifugation. The process is lengthy for a low yield, and it remains underutilized, reserved for highly fragile materials due to the lack of alternative processes. Based on the same principle but at different temperatures or pressures, supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) has improved yields. It uses a fluid such as supercritical CO2. Because this fluid is not very polar, it requires the use of organic (co-)solvents such as ethanol or water, which complicates the process.The cost of the equipment, combined with significant energy consumption and environmental impact, explains why this process has not become widespread. Another solvent-free alternative has been developed for laboratory-scale analysis. It is based solely on pressure, specifically the use of a moderate vacuum to collect volatile compounds. The yield of such processes makes them unsuitable for extracting fractions in sufficient quantities for industrial purposes.

[0006] While mechanical extraction using a press is a solvent-free technique particularly suited to citrus fruits, patent application WO2014 / 152785A1 presents a mechanical press technique based on ultrasonic vibrations that rupture the palm fruit, and the filtered oil is clarified by megasonic waves to collect the palm oil. This process specifies operating temperatures between 60 and 100°C.

[0007] In response to the growing interest in limiting environmental impact, particularly the use of organic solvents, processes have been developed combining so-called "green" solvents, notably aqueous solutions, with ultrasonic radiation. Document EP 3 771 343 describes the use of an aqueous solvent combined with ultrasonic radiation at a power density ranging from 1 to 100 watts per liter. The plant material is preferably dried and ground before being macerated in the aqueous solvent.

[0008] Patent application WO 94 / 26853 (Archimex et al.) describes a solvent-free process that uses microwave radiation with frequencies of at least 300 MHz to heat plant material, combined with hydrodistillation at a reduced pressure (e.g., -250 mbar) inside the chamber to lower the temperature (70°C). Patent application US2004187340A1 (Chemat et al.) describes a solvent-free process that uses microwaves to heat plant material to release the naturally occurring volatile substance, preferably at a temperature between 80 and 90°C, or alternatively 68°C at a reduced pressure of 300 mbar. The energy supplied is approximately 800 to 1000 watts over a period of 20 minutes. Despite a considerable time saving, these processes have major drawbacks beyond the high cost of equipment and significant electricity consumption.Microwave heating of the intrinsic water in matter induces a high temperature increase, causing the degradation or transformation of biological matter.

[0009] Industrial-scale extraction techniques are generally preceded by grinding and mixing phases, making them even more energy-intensive. Furthermore, these techniques, whether traditional or not, are generally not very selective, yielding only a fraction of the biological material. They sometimes require subsequent separation steps that can be lengthy and costly, with a potential risk of losing the compounds of interest. One example is the selective distillation, or rectification, of an extract to obtain its "core" by heating it according to the boiling points of the different components of the biological material.

[0010] One of the current limitations of biological material fraction extraction processes is a lack of selectivity at the extraction stage, resulting in extracts that are not very different from the same plant material. Indeed, these processes are based on the affinity of an extractant such as water, ethanol, hexane, CO2, or air, and / or the volatility, or even the stability, of the constituents at given temperatures and pressures. Furthermore, not all of these processes are suitable for producing extracts from particularly fragile materials, such as flowers, which degrade rapidly after harvesting. Losses or degradation generally occur due to high temperatures or the denaturation of the natural matrix of biological material in the presence of solvent.

[0011] Optical radiation, such as light, has been used to activate certain reactions in solvent extraction processes. Examples include accelerating the aging of beverages in oak barrels (US 2021 / 017477A1; WO 2021 / 011210A1), enhancing the extraction of active compounds from mango leaves through activation (CN 108 892 695 A), preparing St. John's wort oil (EP 1 197 219 A1), and targeted extraction from unripe lemons (KR 2024 0104354 A). All of these extractions require the use of an extraction solvent.

[0012] Therefore, there is a need for extraction processes that respect the structure of the biological material and / or the environment, ideally solvent-free or even solvent-free, with low energy and / or time consumption, allowing for the production of natural extracts with varying compositions that can correspond to the natural and unaltered composition of the material, such as its fragrance. Furthermore, there is a lack of natural extraction processes that can produce a quantity of products, a fraction, or an extract that is minimally or not altered at all, with a high yield, in a reasonable time and / or at low cost.

[0013] The invention aims in particular to remedy at least one, and preferably several, of these problems by providing: an extraction process and / or device using optical radiation; an extraction process and / or device allowing selectivity both at the level of the extracted fractions and at their transformation based on optical radiation (choice of one or more wavelengths and / or intensity); an extraction process and / or device enabling a high yield; a gentle extraction process and / or device that can preserve the integrity of the biological material; a process and / or device for obtaining an undiluted extract; a process and / or device that can be implemented without extraction solvent and in particular without solvent and / or without additive and / or in a closed circuit, allowing in particular to obtain an extract without contaminants or residues; a process that can be implemented with few steps; a process that can be implemented very soon after the collection of the biological material to be treated (fields or processing site), which in particular makes it possible to reduce potential losses with high yields; an extraction device comprising or being made of recyclable materials and consumables; a process capable of generating at least one extract fraction and one valuable solid residual fraction; a process that can generate very little, or even no, waste; a process that conserves natural resources such as water; and / or a process and / or device with low energy consumption such as electricity. Description of the invention

[0014] To this end, an object of the invention is a process for extracting a fraction from biological material, said process comprising a step of exposing said material to optical radiation under controlled conditions.

[0015] Unexpectedly, it appears that applying optical, and therefore photonic, radiation at controlled wavelengths and energy or light intensity allows for the selective extraction of an extract, generally in less than 24 hours and with a high mass yield (for example, rose petal extracts with an intense fragrance have been obtained with a mass yield of over 80%, whereas traditional extraction methods show yields of less than 1%), without the need to add an extraction solvent and / or apply an external heating source. Advantageously, the process can be implemented without a substantial increase in the temperature of the biological material.Also, the compounds obtained are not or only slightly degraded and the extract advantageously does not contain undesirable external compounds, such as a solvent, an additive associated with the extraction process even in trace amounts and / or a degradation compound.

[0016] Also, according to a preferred aspect, the invention relates to a process for extracting biological material comprising the following steps: to place said biological material in a closed device comprising a reactor, exposing a surface of said material to optical radiation characterized by one or more wavelengths in the range of 380 to 780 nm, said radiation having a luminous illumination of said surface ranging from 1,000 x 10⁻¹⁰ to 299,000 x 10⁻¹⁰, and thereby producing a fluid extract; and optionally collecting a fluid extract. Several fluid extracts may also be obtained.

[0017] Preferably, the wavelength(s) of said optical radiation comprise only one or more wavelengths in the range from 380 to 780 nm.

[0018] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the optical radiation may advantageously comprise one or more wavelengths in the range from 315 nm to 900 nm. This range of optical radiation corresponds to a broader range than the range of visible light for humans, which is 380 nm to 780 nm. It corresponds to optimized photosynthetic light specifically designed to stimulate plants. Preferably, this radiation is broad-spectrum and / or includes radiation in the visible range.

[0019] According to another preferred aspect, the fluid extract is condensed into a liquid and / or precipitated into a solid.

[0020] According to another preferred aspect, biological matter is a part of plant matter and in particular a part of a plant preferably chosen from the group consisting of stems, leaves, twigs, flowers, seeds, beans, fruits, roots, tubers, wood, bark, thorns, sap, resins, gums, fruit skins or peels, flower petals and their mixture.

[0021] According to another preferred aspect, said light illumination of said surface is 3500 to 290000 Ix and / or the extraction is a fractionation carried out in the absence of solvent.

[0022] According to another preferred aspect, the extraction is carried out at an average temperature ranging from ambient temperature, for example from 18°C ​​to 25°C, to 65°C, or preferably to 45°C and more particularly to 37°C.

[0023] According to another preferred aspect, the invention relates to an extraction device comprising a reactor suitable for containing biological material and having a wall transparent to optical radiation. The device includes an optical radiation source, said source emitting optical radiation and being arranged relative to the reactor such that the optical radiation received inside the reactor by a surface of said biological material is optical radiation having one or more wavelengths selected from a range of 380 to 780 nm, and such that the light intensity received from said surface is from 1,000 Ix to 299,000 Ix. This intensity may, however, advantageously exceed 3,500 Ix, 10,000 Ix, 35,000 Ix, and even exceed 290,000 Ix. In a particularly preferred manner and in order to obtain the most satisfactory results, the optical radiation is greater than 80000 Ix and in particular 140000 Ix.

[0024]

[0025] According to a preferred aspect, the reactor includes a support, such as a sieve or basket, preferably perforated, to receive the biological material and / or said radiation source includes an LED diode. Biological material

[0026] The material targeted for extraction is biological material, particularly of plant or animal origin, preferably in its natural state. Indeed, the process can advantageously be applied directly to biological material that may be minimally or not at all processed. This biological material may be natural and unprocessed, or it may be processed, such as cheese. However, it is also preferable that this natural material be isolated from its growth environment and / or that it not contain a biological organism, animal or plant, in its entirety.

[0027] The process is best suited for extracting solid materials. A solid is defined as a material that is not in a fluid state, meaning neither liquid nor gas. The term "solid" includes soft materials and gels with some shape retention. However, the process can be adapted to viscous or liquid materials by modifying the equipment.

[0028] An entire plant can be the subject of the extraction according to the invention. However, depending on the extract to be obtained, the biological material may be, for example, one (or more) parts of a plant, aerial or otherwise, such as its stems, leaves, twigs, flowers, seeds, beans, fruits, roots, tubers, wood, bark, thorns, sap, resins, gums, fruit peels or skins, flower petals, etc. Flowers and / or their petals are preferred. These plant parts may also be extracted in their entirety, that is, uncut or uncrushed, to avoid the loss of odor and / or aroma.

[0029] The biological material can be in intact and / or fresh form, i.e. less than 48 hours, preferably less than 24 hours and even more preferably less than 12 hours after picking, for example less than 5 hours after picking.

[0030] Alternatively, the biological material may have been processed; for example, it may have been previously cut, chopped, ground, crushed, peeled, frozen, heated, dried, roasted, fermented, macerated, filtered, and / or moistened. Thus, flower petals such as irises, peonies, or lilies may be separated from the rest of the plant beforehand, for example, by cutting, in order to allow them to be spread out in the biological material carrier. Advantageously, these steps are not mandatory for the implementation of the invention.

[0031] Alternatively or additionally, the biological material may have been selected. For example, rose petals are used or harvested without the pistils and allergenic pollen. It is possible to avoid harvesting or using the petals on the periphery of the flower, which allows for the selection of undamaged petals while preserving biodiversity in the fields. Any biological material with inherent qualities and defects can produce an extract that retains these initial qualities and defects.

[0032] Any type of plant material can be subjected, in whole or in part, to extraction according to the process of the invention. This includes vegetables, algae, fungi, and mosses. The plant material may, for example, be valued for its essential oils, hydrosols, and / or fragrance.

[0033] By way of non-limiting example, the process is applicable to flowers, including rose, jasmine, tuberose, lilac, lily, hyacinth, sweet pea, freesia, acacia blossom, lily of the valley, daffodil, iris, peony, cornflower, mimosa, carnation, ylang-ylang, patchouli, violet, honeysuckle, lavender, lavandin, orange blossom, immortelle, chamomile, and / or bergamot. The process is particularly advantageous for flowers considered "mute" in perfumery, meaning those that are particularly difficult to extract faithfully, and for white flowers.

[0034] By way of non-limiting example, the process is applicable to fruits, such as citrus fruits, for example lemon, orange, clementine and grapefruit, grape, raspberry, strawberry, pear and vanilla, or to vegetables such as garlic, spinach, black radish, carrots, beets.

[0035] By way of non-limiting example, the process is applicable to a part of fruits or vegetables, such as a bark and in particular citrus peel, a skin or peel, such as grape skin, eggplant skin.

[0036] By way of non-limiting example, the process according to the invention is applicable to barks or woods such as, for example, yew bark, lemon balm, rosewood, cedarwood and / or sandalwood, cinnamon, to a thorn or needle, such as pine needles or thorns, pine sap or even to a moss such as, for example, oakmoss.

[0037] By way of non-limiting example, the process according to the invention is applicable to leaves, such as, for example, tea, mint, patchouli, sage, thyme, rosemary, basil, parsley, nettle, savory, verbena, eucalyptus, hemp, willow, tobacco and / or cannabis.

[0038] By way of non-limiting example, the process according to the invention is also applicable to a root, such as, for example, ginger, iris, vetiver, to a fungus, such as, for example, truffle, a spice, such as five peppercorns, curry, saffron, paprika, clove, a seed, such as, for example, coffee, anise or a bean such as, for example, tonka bean, or cocoa.

[0039] By way of non-limiting example, the process according to the invention is also applicable to algae, such as spirulina, wakame, sea lettuce, or nori. The process according to the invention is not limited to plants; biological materials of animal origin can also be subjected to the extraction of their constituent compounds. Examples of such materials include animal secretions such as honey and musk, or animal or plant matter transformed by a process such as smoking, salting, or fermentation. Examples include bacon, smoked fish, and / or cheese. It is also envisaged that the transformation, for example, fermentation, may take place concurrently with the extraction.

[0040] Biological material can be dry material, that is to say, have a water content of less than 15% (w / w), preferably less than 12% (w / w) in particular for rosemary, thyme, woods, secretions (saps), thorns, vanilla pods or coffee beans or cocoa beans, this is also the case for dehydrated materials such as tea, mushrooms, mustard, spices, condiments.

[0041] The process according to the invention is not limited to a biological material; it can be applied to a mixture of different biological materials such as tea and jasmine, or truffle and cheese. Fraction of biological matter (extracted or residual)

[0042] The extraction process makes it possible to obtain at least two fractions of the starting biological material: at least one extracted fluid fraction (extract) and one residual fraction.

[0043] The extracted or residual biological material fraction comprises, or is composed of, a compound, or a mixture of compounds, referred to as a complex mixture, naturally present in, or generated by, the biological material subjected to the process according to the invention and described above. This fraction may be gaseous, liquid, or solid. This fraction may include, or be composed of, water. This fraction may advantageously include a fragrant and / or aromatic compound such as a terpenoid, an alcohol, an aldehyde, a ketone, etc., or even an essential oil. The compound may, in particular, be a compound used in perfumery or the food industry. It may be a mixture of compounds corresponding to a fraction of compounds such as a top, middle, or base aromatic note, or a combination of notes in a perfume.This fraction may include a volatile odorous and / or aromatic compound, such as phenyl alcohol, carvone, eucalyptol, vanillin, etc. This fraction may contain at least one compound or mixture of compounds known for their gustatory qualities, such as an aroma, or conversely, for their undesirable qualities, such as the repellent effect of tannins on animals or the allergenic effect of certain compounds like eucalyptol. This fraction may contain a compound, or mixture of compounds, known for its biological activity. Biological activity includes, for example, pharmacological, antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, etc., activity. Examples include an alkaloid such as nicotine from tobacco, caffeine from coffee or tea, theobromine from cocoa, cannabidiol and / or tetrahydrocannabidiol from cannabis, or glycyrrhizic acid from licorice.As an example, we can also mention the active molecules contained in essential oils such as the terpene family, such as linalool or limonene, thymol from thyme, eugenol from clove or cinnamon, anethole from anise, carvone or pulegone from mint, eucalyptol from eucalyptus, geraniol or citronellol from geranium, etc.

[0044] The biological material fraction may include a natural dye or pigment such as a flavonoid, anthocyanin, flavone, carotenoid, chlorophyll, etc.

[0045] It may include a compound known for its nutritional quality such as a sugar, a lipid, a protein, an amino acid, a fatty acid, a sterol, a vitamin, a mineral, etc.

[0046] The fraction of biological matter is preferably natural, that is to say without additives (compounds not naturally contained in the starting biological matter) and / or advantageously without organic solvent, even in trace form. Extracted biological fraction or "extract"

[0047] According to a particularly advantageous aspect of the invention, the biological fraction can be a mixture of compounds naturally formed or emitted by the plant in its environment, i.e., its "fragrance" and / or a perfumed water. According to another particularly advantageous aspect of the invention, it is possible to obtain an essential oil from the biological material fraction after separation from the aqueous phase. In both cases, during extraction, the extract is preferably a fluid extract. This fluid extract, preferably liquid and particularly under normal temperature (22°C) and pressure (1 bar) conditions, may, however, contain an insoluble compound, or precipitate, that forms after extraction. According to another advantageous aspect of the invention, it is possible to obtain fragrance fractions such as a top fraction, a middle fraction, or a base fraction.

[0048] According to a preferred aspect of the process according to the invention, a fluid extract is separated or removed from the starting biological material, generally in the form of a fluid such as a gas or a vapor. However, the extract is preferably in liquid form, whether directly extracted as a liquid (e.g., microdroplets), a gas (vapor), or an aerosol. Thus, according to a preferred aspect, the gaseous extract is then condensed into a liquid and / or precipitated into a solid. According to a variant of the invention, the extract is advantageously undiluted and / or free of additives (such as a preservative, or traces of a nonpolar organic solvent such as hexane or an alkane).

[0049] This fraction is preferably substantially colorless, and / or free of at least one, and preferably none, type of pigment present in the starting biological material. Thus, extracts of fuchsia rose (example 2), spearmint (example 3), and beige ginger are colorless. This lack of color due to pigments or their transformations has also been observed in extracts of black vanilla bean, cut red beetroot, orange carrot, orange clementine peel, pink raspberry, and black-purple blackberry. This lack of color due to the absence of pigments makes it possible to resolve, among other things, color stability issues without the use of additives and / or preservatives. The term "colorless" describes, in particular, a "transparent" liquid extract whose L*, a*, and b* coordinates (CIELab) can be defined as L* ranging from 90.0 to 100.0, a* ranging from -2.0 to +2.0, and b ranging from 0 to +8.0.For a solid extract, it is preferably white, which can be defined as having the coordinates L*, a*, and b* (CIELab) with L* ranging from 90.0 to 100.0, a* ranging from -2.0 to +2.0 and b ranging from -2 to +3 under standard measurement conditions.

[0050] The extract obtained according to the invention advantageously exhibits improved stability to the light rays to which it has been exposed. It is preferably photostable with respect to the optical radiation used. This makes it possible to limit the use of solar filters for preserving the extracts.

[0051] The extract obtained according to the invention preferably comprises an aqueous solution. It may also comprise one or more compounds that are sparingly soluble, or even insoluble, in water, such as the terpene family (for example, carvone found in mint). Thus, this extract makes it possible to disperse or even solubilize compounds with varying solubilities, even those insoluble in water, without the need to add a third solvent or ethanol during the extraction.

[0052] The extract obtained according to the invention may advantageously contain little or no degradation compound related to heating, or a compound resulting from an undesired reaction, in particular a compound associated with the presence of organic solvent.

[0053] When this liquid extract contains odorant (or aromatic) molecules, it can be characterized by an intense fragrance, which may correspond to the natural scent of the biological material. Alternatively, it may correspond only to the top, middle, or base notes, or to combinations thereof.

[0054] In another aspect, the process according to the invention can advantageously promote the selective extraction of compounds having different optical properties.

[0055] Preferably, a fraction of fluid biological material (under normal conditions of pressure and temperature) comprises one or more organic compounds, generally of low molecular weight (e.g., less than 300 g / mol, and more particularly less than 250 g / mol, even more preferably less than 200 g / mol, or even less than 170 g / mol). This material is generally extracted in gaseous form. In this case, the extraction method is linked to the physicochemical characteristics of the molecules, for example, their resistance to optical radiation flux with respect to their molecular weight, or their electron acceptor properties. It is known that a change in pressure and / or temperature influences changes of state, such as from gas to liquid, from liquid to gas, from solid to liquid, or from liquid to solid.

[0056] A liquid extract obtained, or obtainable, by the process of the invention is obviously an object of the invention. It may be characterized, in particular, by its natural fragrance or aroma, corresponding to the natural fragrance of the extracted biological material, its lack of color, and / or its purified composition. By purified composition, we mean the reduction of its number of constituents and / or the ratios of undesirable compounds. Advantageously, the process allows for the elimination or reduction of one or all contaminants external to the material and / or compounds resulting from undesirable side reactions.

[0057] An external contaminant can be an environmental pollutant and / or a process agent, such as a nonpolar solvent or an alkane, for example, hexane. The resulting extracts can therefore be free of traces of additives such as a nonpolar solvent, an alkane, or hexane. The absence of traces can be defined as an amount less than 0.03 or 1 mg / kg; preferably, this amount is undetectable.

[0058] A particularly advantageous aspect of the process is that unwanted reactions that can occur during extraction are minimized by implementing a process that preferably uses little or no solvent and / or does not interact with the biological material being extracted. Undesirable unwanted reactions can include thermal degradation of the material, which particularly affects pigments, hydrolysis of compounds in the presence of substantial amounts of water, esterification in the presence of alcohol, and so on. Such reactions can affect the composition of the extract and may alter compounds such as acids, alcohols, and / or esters, which have a strong olfactory impact.

[0059] Such a natural extract can be characterized by its purified, high-quality composition, such as the absence of volatile compounds with a molecular weight greater than 250 g / mol. It may also preferably include a solvent, such as water and / or an alcohol (e.g., ethanol), although not necessarily in small quantities.

[0060] Such an extract is preferably, due to its novelty, a fragrant or aromatic extract of a fragile biological material, such as flowers resistant to extraction or requiring an organic solvent for their extraction, or even white flowers and / or "mute" flowers. Therefore, the biological material to be extracted may include a flower and / or petals of rose, peony, sweet pea, iris, jasmine, tuberose, violet, mimosa, lilac, acacia, gardenia, freesia, hyacinth, wisteria, lily, narcissus, heliotrope, daffodil, mock orange, or magnolia, and in particular lily of the valley. Residual biological fraction

[0061] According to another aspect of the invention, the residual fraction of the biological material, once extracted, is also a biological fraction according to the invention. This extract is advantageously a solid, or residual, extract, which is generally a dry extract. By "dry" is meant without water, but also more particularly without liquid compounds. A dry extract may have a dry matter content of less than 25% by weight, preferably less than 10%, advantageously less than 1%, and more particularly less than 0.1%. This solid fraction may be obtained through a desired transformation of the biological material by optical radiation, which may generate a composition different from its natural composition. This fraction may be stabilized by optical radiation.

[0062] The residual fraction is preferably in the form of biological material in its natural state, such as, for example, bark, particularly fruit peel (e.g., citrus), fruit, root, aerial parts, leaf, flower, or dried and possibly shrunken flower petal. This fraction thus obtained is preferably free of additives (e.g., preservatives) and / or solvents, particularly organic solvents, and preferably extraction solvents.

[0063] The residual fraction obtained from plants may include structural organic compounds such as cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, as well as natural pigments, or even minerals. Thus, the residual fraction may include compounds generally having high molecular weights, for example, more than 300 g / mol. In another aspect of the invention, the residual fraction may include compounds generally having molecular weights of more than 50 g / mol, more than 100 g / mol, or more than 200 g / mol.

[0064] The residual fraction advantageously comprises at least one, and preferably essentially all, of the pigments from the biological material and / or at least 50% by mass, preferably 75%, and preferably more than 95%, or even all, of the pigments present in the original biological material. The pigments of the biological material are concentrated due to the loss of mass in the extract. This residual fraction can therefore advantageously be colored, in particular having a darker and / or more intense color than the original color of the biological material. Furthermore, it is noted that, in such a dry extract, the pigment(s) generally remain stable in the absence of moisture. This is particularly advantageous since it is possible to limit, or even eliminate, the need for preservatives or sunscreens to stabilize the pigments.

[0065] Such a residual fraction can be used, in particular, for the manufacture of various products or compositions, with or without additives or reagents, such as, for example, the production of paper, filter paper, filter paper, or coloring matter. A colored solid fraction according to the invention can be used as is, alone or in mixtures, and can be subjected to additional processing steps known to those skilled in the art, such as grinding, sieving, rolling, compression, rehydration, and / or extraction with aqueous or organic fluids / solvents. It can also be combined with a biological fraction according to the invention, preferably a liquid fraction. Solvent

[0066] Advantageously, the process according to the invention does not require the addition of a solvent to perform the extraction of the biological material. The term "solvent" refers first to organic liquids commonly used to obtain a homogeneous mixture, under normal temperature and pressure conditions, with the extracted fraction, such as hexane, ethyl acetate, glycerol, propylene glycol, acetone, ether, and / or ethanol. A solvent may also be an aqueous and / or inorganic liquid (water, aqueous buffer, salt, etc.), subcritical water, or a fluid such as supercritical carbon dioxide with or without a polar modifier. The term "solvent" may also include any liquid or fluid substance intended to solubilize the extracted compound(s).

[0067] The use of a solvent is not excluded from the scope of the process according to the invention, as it can be combined with it to improve the extraction (by moistening biological material) and / or the subsequent transport of the extracted fraction once condensed. Furthermore, it can be particularly advantageous in the case of biological material with low water content to provide consistency to the extract and / or to rehydrate it. Thus, a small volume of solvent or liquid can be added to the material to be extracted to moisten it internally and increase its capacity to release the extract in the form of gas, droplets, and / or aerosol. By "small volume of solvent," we mean, for example, a volume not exceeding 75%, in particular 50%, preferably 25%, and most preferably less than 10% of the apparent volume of the material to be extracted (a volume that can be measured by pycnometry or 3D scanning).In fact, very small volumes, such as less than 4%, preferably 3%, and most preferably less than 2% of the apparent volume of the material to be extracted, can be used, which is a substantial advantage in terms of cost, extract purity, and environmental impact. Alternatively or additionally, the solvent volume is determined by the desired condensate volume. However, maceration, or even simple contact with the external surface of the material to be extracted, is not preferred, particularly to avoid the undesirable filtering effect of the solvent on the extraction radiation, the agglomerations of biological matter, and the associated shadowing that could result from total or substantial immersion in a liquid and / or the presence of a thick liquid film on the surface of the material to be extracted. Such substantial immersion and / or the application of such a film should therefore preferably be avoided or minimized."Substantial immersion" can be defined, for example, as 10% to 100% of the apparent volume of the material to be extracted being in contact with a solvent and / or liquid, preferably 50% to 100%, and even more preferably 75% to 100%. A "thick film" refers in particular to a thickness of more than 1 µm, preferably more than 1 mm, and more specifically more than 1 cm.

[0068] Thus, a solvent can also be used to solubilize precipitates, improve viscosity, and / or enhance preservation, either concurrently with or following extraction. It is therefore preferentially introduced after extraction and / or outside the light beam to avoid any unwanted artifacts during the extraction process. In this case, the solvent is not an extraction solvent for the biological material, but a condensation solvent. Alternatively, a condensation liquid / solvent, for example, containing or composed of water and / or ethanol, can be positioned within the reactor, for instance, deposited on the reactor walls or sprayed into it, to allow for the homogeneous condensation of the extract in conjunction with this liquid / solvent and / or to enable the collection of a larger volume of the extract, making it easier to handle.It is of course important that this extraction liquid is not applied in a way that substantially interferes with the extraction surface of the biological material. Therefore, contact between the biological material and the condensation liquid should be minimized or even avoided. Optical radiation

[0069] Biological material is exposed to optical radiation, in particular visible light or radiation, infrared radiation, and / or ultraviolet radiation. Optical radiation is defined according to ISO 20473:2007 as an electromagnetic wave whose wavelength range, measured in a vacuum, is between 1 nm and 1,000,000 nm, corresponding to frequencies from 300,000 THz to 0.3 THz. The term "optical radiation" will be used for both "visible" and "invisible" light, in the ultraviolet, visible, and infrared ranges. These frequencies or wavelengths are a key characteristic of the process of the invention. The associated wavelength ranges vary depending on the technical field. ISO 20473:2007 specifies that the UV / Visible range differs from that of the International Commission on Illumination (CIE). Indeed, frequencies from 380 to 400 nm are attributed to the ultraviolet range and not the visible range.Such discrepancies in the terminology used for radiation types do not invalidate the measurement of the frequency and / or wavelengths characteristic of the radiation used in the process according to the invention. Optical radiation is characterized by ultraviolet radiation divided into three bands: A, B, or C. The near-ultraviolet range will nevertheless be preferred. Ultraviolet C is known for its health risks, particularly for damaging DNA, which is the basis of decontamination processes. Visible radiation is characterized overall by so-called white light, composed of colors. Infrared radiation is divided into three bands: near-infrared (or NIR), mid-infrared (or MIR), and far-infrared (FIR). Infrared radiation is known for its heating capacity and its health risks, particularly to the retina. The near-infrared range will therefore be preferred.Thus, frequencies characterizing visible light, and in particular "white" light, or those close to it, are easier to implement because they are less associated with potential health risks than infrared or UV-C radiation. The range of wavelengths in a vacuum characterizing the optical radiation used in the process according to the invention can vary from 1 nm to 1,000,000 nm, preferably from 100 nm to 100,000 nm, more preferably from 280 nm to 50,000 nm, and even more preferably from 315 nm to 10,000 nm, and in particular from 380 nm to 780 nm. Such wavelengths are measured by photometric instruments. These instruments are dedicated to specific wavelength ranges. These spectrometric instruments are often combined with illuminance measurements and are therefore called "multifunctional" lux meters.For example, the Konica Minolta CL70F lux meter can measure dominant wavelengths from 380 to 780 nm and illuminance up to 200,000 lux. SPECIM FX models using hyperspectral imaging can measure infrared wavelengths from 900 to 1700 nm or 2.7 to 5.3 pm. The CAS140D model can measure UV / VIS / NIR wavelengths from 200 to 1100 nm as well as illuminance levels between 1 and 10⁻¹⁰ nm. 8 and 100 W / m 2 nm. For illuminance measurements up to 299000 Ix, a device called T-10A can be used.

[0070] Optical radiation can be broad, meaning it encompasses all optical radiation with wavelengths from 380 to 780 nm, constituting what is known as "white" light. This type of radiation has yielded particularly satisfactory results in obtaining fragrant fractions that reflect the natural aroma of the biological material to be extracted, and in particular the aroma of fragrant plants and / or flowers.

[0071] White light can also be characterized by its "temperature," that is, the relative distribution of each wavelength that makes up its visible spectrum. The "temperature," or spectrum, can vary from 1000 K (warm or very red) to 10000 K (cool or very blue). As a non-limiting example, the light to which biological matter is exposed can be warm white light with a temperature of 2300 K to 3500 K, such as 2700 K, or neutral white light with a temperature of 3500 K to 5500 K, such as 4000 K, or cool light with a temperature ranging from 5500 K to 8000 K, such as 6000 K. This temperature can also be attributed to standard daylight: 5500 K. A so-called cold temperature is preferred to obtain more fragile and reactive extracts, a so-called hot temperature is preferred to extract compounds resulting from the degradation of certain pigments.

[0072] A so-called cold temperature will be preferred to extract more pronounced top and / or middle notes, a neutral temperature for more balanced notes between the top and base, and a warm temperature for the middle and / or base notes.

[0073] Also, according to a variant of the invention, the applied light is said to be "neutral", for example, it is between 3500°K and 5500°K. For example, this is strictly understood to be between 3500°K and 3850°K, between 4250°K and 4750°K, between 4750°K and 5500°K, and more preferably between 3850°K and 4250°K, or having any other temperature range defined by the numbers 3550, 3600, 3650, 3700, 3750, 3800, 3850, 3900, 3950, 4000, 4050, 4100, 4150, 4200, 4250, 4300, 4350, 4400, 4450, 4500, 4600, 4700, 4800, 4900, 4950, 5000, 5050, 5100, 5150, 5200, 5250, 5300, 5350, 5400, 5450, 5500.

[0074] Also, according to a variant of the invention to improve the stability of very fragile materials and / or improve the fractionation of top notes, it is appropriate to apply a light whose temperature is said to be "cold". For example, this one is strictly greater than 5500°K, in particular greater than 5600°K and preferably greater than or equal to 6000°K or having any other temperature range defined by the numbers 5550, 5600, 5650, 5700, 5750, 5800, 5850, 5900, 5950, 6000, 6050, 6100, 6150, 6200, 6250, 6300, 6350, 6400, 6450, 6500, 6600, 6700, 6800, 6850, 6900, 6950, 7000, 7050, 7100, 7200, 7500, 8000, 8500, 9000, 9500, 10000, 10500, 11000 and 11500.

[0075] In certain cases, it is possible to use lights with a so-called warm temperature to improve the separation of background notes, such as a light with a temperature strictly below 3500°K, preferably below 3000°K and preferably less than or equal to 2700°K, or having any other temperature range defined by the numbers 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1600, 1650, 1700, 1750, 1800, 2000, 2200, 2400, 2450, 2500, 2550, 2600, 2650, 2700, 2750, 2800, 2850, 2900, 2950, ​​3000, 3100, 3150, 3200, 3250, 3300, 3400 and 3500.

[0076] Optical radiation can also be characterized by a range of wavelengths that is not white light, such as radiations from 380 to 430 nm or 400 to 430 nm of a so-called "violet" light, from 430 to 480 nm of a so-called "blue" light, from 480 to 560 nm of a so-called "green" light, from 560 to 580 nm of a so-called "yellow" light, from 580 to 620 nm of a so-called "orange" light, or from 620 to 750 nm or 620 to 800 nm of a "red" light, or a combination and / or subcombination of these radiations. Thus, the top notes will be preferentially extracted with dominant wavelengths between 420 and 500 nm from a blue LED, the middle notes preferentially with dominant wavelengths between 500 and 740 nm through an orange filter for yellow light, and the base notes preferentially with dominant wavelengths between 600 and 800 nm from a red LED.The most volatile compounds will be preferentially extracted with violet / blue or near-UV wavelengths, particularly UV-A and / or UV-B. The least volatile compounds will be preferentially extracted with orange / red or near-IR wavelengths, and more specifically those that are photosynthetically active.

[0077] Another example is the particularly advantageous use of radiation from 315 nm to 380 nm, better known as Wood's light or "black light," for fragile materials. This type of radiation is generally described as "UV-A" and includes UV / Visible radiation.

[0078] The optical radiation used to implement the invention can also be characterized by a "broadband" or "narrowband" wavelength. Narrowband radiation ensures greater selectivity of the fraction to be obtained, i.e., radiation with a wavelength range of at most 40 nm or 2 nm. Examples include commercial lamps emitting broadband UV-B radiation from 280 to 320 nm or narrowband UV-B radiation from 311 ± 2 nm, or blue LED lamps with a wavelength of 460 ± 40 nm.

[0079] Different types of radiation can be combined simultaneously. Thus, several types of radiation characterized by discontinuous wavelength ranges can be used. For example, a so-called "cool" white light can be combined with radiation from a red LED with dominant wavelengths between 600 and 800 nm.

[0080] One can also, for example, utilize the particularly advantageous use of radiation from 280 nm to 315 nm. Such radiation is generally described as "UV-B" and improves plant protection or even their maturation when combined with white light. Advantageously, optical radiation can be selected from among the radiations used for photosynthetic activity in plants to promote the release of fluid extract from matter. This type of radiation is dedicated to the germination, growth, flowering, and maturation of plants. It preferentially combines radiation in the visible spectrum with some discontinuous bands in the near-infrared and UV-A and / or UV-B.

[0081] The application of optical radiation according to the invention can be continuous or intermittent. Although the application of continuous radiation may be considered simpler, intermittent application may be desirable for several reasons, for example, to lower or control the temperature of the biological material or to reduce the energy impact of the process. For example, one could consider exposure for a few seconds every minute or for 15 minutes every 20 minutes, etc., such as white light combined with near-infrared radiation.

[0082] Different types of radiation can be combined consecutively or intermittently. For example, radiation with a range of wavelengths described as blue, applied for 20 minutes, can be followed by radiation with a dominant wavelength described as red, applied for 5 minutes, and so on every 25 minutes. While it is not impossible to apply optical radiation combined with other types of radiation, a particularly advantageous aspect of the invention is to apply only optical radiation, preferably visible, such that radiation in the wavelength(s) within the range of 380 to 780 nm. Thus, non-optical radiation is preferably not applied to biological material. It is also preferable not to apply UVC radiation and / or radiation in the far-infrared.The entire wavelength range from 380 to 780 nm can be very advantageously used to ensure stability and selectivity of the extract (e.g., a fragrance) and the residual fraction. However, a broad-spectrum light extending to IIV-B, IIV-A, and the far-red (700–800 nm), including a portion of the near-infrared, can also be used, specifically from 280 nm to 1200 nm.

[0083] Furthermore, any other wavelength range defined by the numbers 280, 290, 300, 310, 320, 330, 340, 350, 360, 370, 380, 390, 400, 410, 420, 430, 440, 450, 460, 470, 480, 490, 500, 510, 520, 530, 540, 550, 560, 570, 580, 590, 600, 610, 620, 630, 640, 650, 660, 670, 680, 690, 700, 710, 720, 730, 740, 750, 760, 770, 780, 790, 800, 820, 840, 860, 880, 900, 920, 940, 960, 980, 1000, 1020, 1040, 1060, 1080, 1100, 1120, 1150, 1180 and 1200 are also part of the light ranges that can be used.

[0084] Beyond wavelength, the optical radiation received by the biological material according to the process of the invention is also characterized by radiant power or energy flux, expressed in watts or, for luminous flux, in lumens. This radiant power thus generates an irradiance, as defined by IEC 845-21-053, and / or illuminance, as defined by IEC 845-21-060, of the biological material. Irradiance is expressed radiometrically in watts per square meter (W / m²). 2Illuminance is expressed photometrically in lux (Ix) and is specific to the visible wavelength range for the human eye. These two quantities correspond to the energy and / or light flux density, or the energy flux incident on a point of a given surface. This illuminance is measured across all wavelengths, and thus the level of illuminance depends on the range of wavelengths; the wider the range, the higher the potential illuminance level.

[0085] Optical radiation, or the light received by a surface, is defined by a relative wavelength distribution (or spectrum) and a corresponding illumination level. Unexpectedly, the illumination level influences the reaction time, and a minimum illumination is required for the reaction to occur at room temperature.

[0086] The light illumination to which the biological matter is exposed (and therefore which it receives) according to the process of the invention due to optical radiation, for example but not necessarily, for white light (corresponding to a range of 380 to 780 nm), is generally greater than 1,000 lux (Ix) and less than 299,000 Ix, in particular in a range from 2,000 Ix to 290,000 Ix, preferably a range from 8,000 Ix to 299,000 Ix, even more preferably from 10,000 Ix to 299,000 Ix and very particularly from 32,000 Ix to 185,000 Ix. or any other range defined by the numbers 30000, 40000, 50000, 60000, 70000, 80000, 70000, 80000, 90000, 100000, 110000, 120000, 130000, 132000, 134000, 136000, 138000, 140000, 142000, 144000, 146000, 148000, 150000, 155000, 160000, 165000, 170000, 175000, 180000, 185000, 190000, 195000, 200000, 210000, 220000, 230000, 240000, 250000, 275000, 290000, 299000.

[0087] Particularly advantageously, this illuminance, especially for white light, is generally greater than 30,000 Ix, advantageously greater than 80,000 Ix and very advantageously greater than 110,000 Ix and preferably greater than 140,000 Ix.

[0088] A white LED bulb with a diameter of 50 mm, with a beam angle of 36°, a power of 5.7W, with an efficiency of 100 lm / W can satisfy this illuminance provided that it is positioned close enough to the biological material, i.e. less than 120 mm, and preferably between 5 and 70 mm, and more preferably between 0 and 70 mm, depending on the transformations desired.

[0089] The light intensity to which the biological material is exposed according to the process of the invention, due to optical radiation, for example, a range of dominant wavelengths restricted between 420 and 500 nm (so-called blue), is generally greater than 1500 ln, advantageously greater than 3500 ln, and preferably greater than 10000 ln. For example, a 50 mm blue LED bulb, with a power of 7 W, an 80° beam angle, and an efficiency of 79 ln / W, meets these conditions provided it is placed close to the biological material, i.e., less than 120 mm away, preferably from 10 to 70 mm. Generally, a distance of 20 to 40 mm is preferred, and more preferably between 0 and 70 mm, depending on the desired transformations.

[0090] This illuminance is measured by dedicated instruments such as those used for wavelength measurements, which provide quantities of lumens per unit area (lux). The devices mentioned previously can also measure this quantity.

[0091] The desired energy illumination is advantageously obtained by selecting a light source with the required nature and power of radiation (or energy flux) and an appropriate positioning relative to the biological material. Such a source is exemplified below. Source of radiation

[0092] Preferably, the light source emitting the optical radiation is a light-emitting diode (LED) or superluminescent lamp. This type of light source, commonly called LED, is well known. This type of lamp is particularly advantageous for implementing the process according to the invention, since it emits only low thermal energy, which can be particularly desirable, notably to avoid or minimize the temperature rise of the medium and / or reduce energy consumption.

[0093] Nevertheless, other sources of radiation can be used advantageously with appropriate means of user protection such as, for example, a halogen, incandescent, tungsten, quartz-halogen, long tube or compact fluorescent, metal halide (high intensity discharge), high pressure sodium, xenon (including arcs), deuterium, mercury vapor, filament or flash, and / or laser lamp.

[0094] The light source is obviously chosen to emit at least part, and preferably all, of the desired radiation as described above, and can therefore be of various types, for example, narrowband or broadband, adjustable in power or wavelength, multi-wavelength, pulsed, etc. For example, an LED source is particularly suitable because its radiation power can be adjusted by a dimmer, as well as its temperature from warm to cool, or even by color selection. An alternative to an artificial light source is natural light, such as sunlight or a fire, with or without an optical filter. However, according to one embodiment of the invention, the use of natural light as the sole source of radiation can be excluded.

[0095] To implement the process according to the invention, it is desirable, particularly in the context of industrial-scale extraction, to use more than one light source.

[0096] These can be arranged in various ways, for example, horizontally or vertically above the material to be extracted. These light sources can be mounted on a support in the form of bulbs, spotlights, panels, strips, bars, and / or racks, single or multiple, linear or curved. Preferably, these sources are positioned, inclined, or spaced in such a way as to allow for homogeneous illumination. Preferably, the light source is positioned substantially above and / or laterally to the biological material, so as to avoid or minimize the propagation of any thermal energy emitted by the radiation source towards the biological material. Preferably, these sources are spaced in such a way as to allow for better control of the biological material's temperature.

[0097] Each light source generates an energy flux or radiant power (defined by IEC 60050 document IEV 845-21-038), expressed in watts. For light sources, this power is often described as the product of the power consumed in watts and the luminous efficacy (defined by IEC 60050 document IEV 845-21-089) in lumens per watt.

[0098] As an example, a power output of approximately 30 W from 6 lamps in Example 3 gave results equivalent to 4 lamps of 15 W emitting the same type of light for the extraction of 10-30 g of biological material with a reservoir such as that in Example 3.

[0099] For example, the radiation source according to the invention may comprise an array of six 5.7 W LED lamps, each 55 mm in diameter, with a 36° beam angle and corresponding to 450 lm, positioned relative to each other in two staggered rows of three lamps, with a spacing of approximately 20 mm between them. This array may be positioned 5 mm from the wall of a tank as described in Example 3.

[0100] The spacing of the light sources is advantageously determined to allow for the dissipation of at least some of the heat emitted by the light sources through convection. However, depending on the environment, a mechanical ventilation system or a climate-controlled chamber dedicated to the light sources may prove beneficial.

[0101] One advantageous aspect of the process is that the radiation can be reflected, thus exposing the maximum surface area of ​​the biological material to light without requiring multiple light sources. For example, a mirror can be used and positioned to direct at least a portion of the optical radiation towards the biological material being extracted.

[0102] Optical radiation can differ from that emitted by the light source used. For example, different sources can emit different types of radiation, which are then combined. The radiation emitted by a light source can also be modified, diffracted, condensed, etc., by the use of one or more known optical devices. Such devices include, in particular, a dispersive system, a prism, a rotating grating, a slit, a diaphragm, a lens (concave or convex), a mirror (possibly multi-faceted), an optical filter, etc.

[0103] An optical filter can be advantageously used to select a range or band of wavelengths of radiation and / or its intensity. It can be integrated into the lamp, like colored lamps, or it can be placed outside the lamp like a photographic filter. It can be in the form of a colored film applied to the wall of the reactor containing the biological material to be extracted, like window film. This filter can also be integrated into the material of the reactor wall, like colored glass.

[0104] Optical filters can be produced using various technologies depending on the desired effect on optical radiation. They can be bandpass, highpass, lowpass, band-stop, multiband, longpass, narrowband, wideband, adsorption, dielectric, neutral density, self-darkening, tunable, polarizable, linear, variable, and so on. The filter material can include, or be made of, radiation-transparent materials such as glass, gelatin, plastics like acrylic, polymers, metals like aluminum, fused silica, and so forth. Temperature and pressure of the extraction stage

[0105] The process according to the invention allows for the fractionation of the starting biological material into an extract and a residual material fraction, without the substantial use of heating means. Indeed, the process is not intended to substantially heat the biological material. Preferably, the chosen temperature corresponds to the temperatures of the biological material's natural environment, particularly when it is desired that the extract have a natural fragrance. Furthermore, during the process according to the invention, at atmospheric pressure (1 bar), the average temperature around the reactor can be in the range of -70°C to 120°C. Advantageously, it is strictly lower than 80°C, 75°C, 70°C, 65°C, 60°C, 55°C, or 50°C.

[0106] It is also generally advantageous to extract at an average temperature above 5°C, particularly above 12°C, and especially at 18°C. Extraction can thus be carried out at an average temperature ranging from ambient temperature, for example 18°C ​​to 25°C, to approximately 69°C or 65°C, or preferably around 45°C, and more specifically 37°C. This temperature is measured using a thermometer that measures the surface temperature of the biological material being extracted.Preferred temperature ranges, because they do not alter the natural fragrance very much when it is extracted, are from 10°C to 65°C, in particular from 15°C to 45°C or any other temperature range defined by the numbers 10.0, 10.0, 11.0, 12.0, 13.0, 14.0, 15.0, 16.0, 17.0, 18.0, 19.0, 20.0, 21.0, 22.0, 23.0, 24.0, 25.0, 26.0, 27.0, 28.0, 29.0, 30.0, 31.0, 32.0, 33.0, 34.0, 35.0, 36.0, 37.0, 38.0, 39.0, 40.0, 41.0, 42.0, 43.0, 44.0, 45.0, 46.0, 47.0, 48.0, 49.0, 50.0, 51.0, 52.0, 53.0, 54.0, 55.0, 56.0, 57.0, 58.0, 59.0, 60.0, 61.0, 62.0, 63.0, 64.0, 65.0, 66.0, 67.0, 68.0, 69.0.

[0107] To prevent excessive temperature fluctuations in the biological material, the material itself and / or the reactor interior can be regulated. Regulation methods, such as refrigeration / cooling, heat removal (e.g., ventilation via an airflow) or heat absorption (e.g., condensation of the extract), can be used. Other, non-limiting examples include applying optical radiation intermittently and / or varying its intensity, for example, reducing it, or even selecting a specific radiation intensity. It may therefore be advantageous to use radiation that does not contain particularly heating radiation, such as far-infrared radiation, or alternatively, to remove the heat generated by the light sources to prevent an increase in temperature inside the reactor.Therefore, it can also be advantageous to avoid using known thermal heating methods (e.g., microwaves, or one or more heating elements using electric resistance or induction, flames, and / or incandescent heating lamps (filaments), etc.). This minimizes the alteration of the extract's composition due to the temperature increase it can induce, beyond a desired photosynthetic effect. Thus, the use of a continuous spectrum encompassing all, or a substantial portion (e.g., > 50%, preferably > 75%), of the mid- and far-infrared wavelengths, from 25 pm to 1000 pm, or even the near- and mid-infrared (0.78 pm to 1000 pm), can be excluded, particularly for the extraction of sensitive biological material, such as plants (and especially flowers), and especially for the extraction of their fragrance.

[0108] Alternatively, or in combination, thermal control methods can also be used to lower or raise the temperature. Preferably, these methods can be located outside the reactor. In this case, these heating methods can be of any type, including thermal radiation such as infrared. Alternatively, or in combination, thermal cooling methods can also be used to regulate the temperature outside the reactor when it needs to be lowered, particularly to preserve the material being extracted or to improve condensation of the extract, especially on part of a reactor wall.In both cases, these can be of any type of cooling system such as, for example, a climate chamber, a Peltier effect heating and cooling plate, or alternatively a fluid circulation with an external reservoir allowing the condensation of the extract and the cooling of the circulating gas by a cryogenic fluid bath, a water or air refrigerant, etc.

[0109] Preferably, the process is carried out under normal pressure conditions, i.e. without external negative or positive pressure being applied to the reaction medium, and the extraction advantageously takes place substantially at atmospheric pressure (e.g. 1 bar) and preferably without compressing the biological material.

[0110] The temperature range to which the biological material can be subjected during extraction can vary from -70°C to 25°C. Ideally, the ambient temperature should be between 18°C ​​and 25°C, particularly under normal pressure conditions (1 bar). However, applying a light vacuum, for example around 500 mbar or 700-800 mbar, may be desirable to reduce the temperature and / or improve extraction, for example, to facilitate the movement, condensation, and / or transfer of the extract to a reservoir. The application of a moderate vacuum of 200-300 mbar is already known to improve existing technologies; however, applying a vacuum of around 600-700 mbar helps prevent the risk of aspirating the residual fraction at the end of the extraction.Alternatively, positive pressure can be applied, for example, to achieve cooling and / or suction via gas circulation. Mild conditions, for example around 1.1 to 1.2 bar, are preferred. Extraction time

[0111] The reaction time or exposure time of biological material to optical radiation varies depending on the nature, intensity, and therefore the power of the radiation or light flux. Thus, the more powerful the radiation at given wavelengths, the potentially faster the extraction time. It will also depend on the intrinsic characteristics of the biological material, such as its nature (mass, volume), structure, moisture content, etc., as well as the nature of the desired biological fraction.

[0112] Obtaining a biological fraction, in particular an extract under normal temperature and pressure conditions (e.g., 22°C and 1 bar), is generally carried out over a period ranging from 1 min to 48 h, more precisely between 20 min and 48 h, preferably between 1 h and 36 h, between 2 h and 20 h, and advantageously between 2 h and 18 h. A period ranging from 1 h to 10 h, preferably from 1 h 30 min to 4 h, and even from 1 h 45 min to 2 h 30 min have also given satisfactory results.

[0113] To obtain a residual fraction that is a dry extract, it can be particularly advantageous to prolong the period of exposure to optical radiation, for example by adding an exposure period of 1 min to 18h, more precisely from 20 min to 8h and more particularly from 20 min to 4h.

[0114] It is understood that the exposure of biological matter to optical radiation allows the simultaneous obtaining of an extract and / or a residual biological fraction.

[0115] The extract can be withdrawn from the reactor intermittently, once the extraction of the desired fraction is complete. In this case, a second extraction cycle can be implemented to further dehydrate the remaining fraction. Advantageously, the extract can be continuously removed from the reaction medium, for example, by aspiration or a flow of air or inert gas. Additional steps in obtaining an extract

[0116] According to a preferred aspect, a condensation step of the extract is performed. The condensation of the extract can be carried out within the reactor containing the biological material. This condensation can occur through contact with a reactor wall. In this case, the process may optionally include a step of removing the extract from the reactor, for example, by interrupting the application of optical radiation. The extract can then be transferred to a reservoir. Alternatively, the condensation and / or precipitation step can be carried out in a reservoir to which the fluid extract has been directed. This reservoir can be separate from the reactor. It is preferably located outside the field of action of the optical radiation.

[0117] The temperature difference between a reactor wall and the extract temperature can, on its own, cause condensation, advantageously without the use of additional cooling methods, particularly at normal temperatures and / or pressures (22°C and 1 bar). However, depending on the process conditions, it may be necessary to cool the reactor and / or the tank. Cooling methods that can be used include conventional techniques such as regulating the reactor's external environment through air conditioning, using a thermostatically controlled bath, a cryogenic fluid, a refrigerated enclosure, a double-walled refrigerated bath for the reactor and / or tank, and / or a Peltier plate or furnace. Cooling can improve the stability of the extract or a fraction of its components.For particularly unstable compositions, the use of a cryogenic bath (liquid nitrogen, dry ice, etc.) can be advantageous. For example, algae will require temperatures lower than ambient temperature in their natural environment, such as 12°C or below; lily of the valley will require a temperature between 18 and 22°C, just as a cactus will require a temperature higher than ambient in its natural environment, such as 40°C or even above 40°C.

[0118] According to a preferred design, the liquid extract is not substantially in direct contact with the biological material, and / or does not permeate or pass through it. To prevent reabsorption of the extract by the biological material and / or its deposition on it, thus causing maceration, it is advantageous to provide means for capturing and / or separating the biological material that are separate from the condensation means. In particular, direct contact of the biological material with the reactor walls and / or the condensed extract is advantageously avoided. For example, the biological material is advantageously placed on a support that promotes gas evacuation and / or limits condensation, such as a sieve, basket, grid, or strainer.The mesh size used is advantageously small enough to physically contain the biological material, even in its dried form, but large enough to prevent any blockage due to condensation of the extract (examples 1 and 3). This mesh can also be used to sift the biological material to be extracted out of the reactor in order to remove undesirable elements such as pollen or pistils from flowers, which can cause allergens and / or color the extract. For example, a diamond-shaped mesh in the basket fabric measuring 16x8 mm, 10x5.5 mm, or 6x3.3 mm (with a 1 mm wire) prevented any condensation within an aluminum basket. Aluminum also reflects some of the applied light. Food-grade or pharmaceutical-grade stainless steel is also an alternative to aluminum. Depending on the nature of the biological material, the support can be equipped with accessories.The support medium can be combined with an absorption / adsorption medium, for example, a portion of filter paper such as blotting paper to prevent the biological material from macerating. In the case of sufficiently large, non-particulate solid biological material, a suspension medium such as a hook can be considered, or even more than one suspension medium, such as a clip or a ring. Advantageously, a holding device preventing the material from bending towards the walls can be used, such as a vertical and / or horizontal rod, in a reactor where the light sources are positioned horizontally, vertically, and / or inclined. Conversely, the light sources can be fixed, such as, for example, a top-down illumination field, and in this case, the surface of the support can be inclined to direct the light flux specifically onto certain parts of the biological material.Such a device is particularly well-suited to plants that are flexible and do not support themselves. For example, an angle of less than 45°, preferably less than 30° and more specifically less than 20°, around 10°, will be particularly suitable for exposing the inside of the bell-shaped flowers of lily of the valley stems positioned upside down. Furthermore, the support can include a stem-holding system, such as clamping holes, allowing the stems to be positioned and / or shielded from light either by positioning them away from the light or by covering them with an aluminum section.Particularly in the case of fine biological material comprising or consisting of powder and / or dust (such as mimosa pollen), or viscous or oozing substances like honey, it can be advantageous to use a means of capturing the fine and particulate biological material. This means using a material that physically retains the biological material, limiting its maceration or flow within the reactor. The material is preferably permeable to the extract. It can be a filter paper type. Its thickness is preferably between 20 µm and 1 mm, and more preferably between 60 and 130 µm, with a porosity ranging from 20 to 62%. It can be adsorbent and is preferably white. This material can be placed on a grid or at the bottom of the basket described previously. In this case, the capture medium (e.g., the filter paper) can be exposed to optical radiation after the biological material has been removed and processed separately.For cases involving liquid seepage and / or liquids such as rum, a shallow, preferably transparent, tank is recommended. In the case of liquids, they can be deposited directly onto blotting paper or a thin absorbent material such as cellulose, for example, less than 3 mm thick. Alternatively, the liquid to be extracted can be introduced into the reactor, particularly on its support, from an external reservoir of biological material, possibly by being adsorbed by capillary action onto a support positioned within the reactor.

[0119] The extract is preferentially condensed within the reactor. The mist / vapor / vapor generated by the optical radiation is advantageously condensed on the reactor walls. Preferably, the reactor and / or the biological material are subjected to controlled movement or displacement, for example, by tilting or rotation, which notably improves the flow of the extract condensate by gravity to the bottom of the reactor or to a means of disposal. Advantageously, the condensed extract is discharged continuously through a pipe with a remote valve, which a person skilled in the art can select and adapt to the system. Advantageously, the remote valve can supply different tanks corresponding to different fractions. Alternatively, different tanks, each connected by a valve, can be used.

[0120] According to another preferred aspect of the process according to the invention, an extract absorption step is carried out. Advantageously, an absorption (or adsorption) step of the extract by an absorbent substrate or adsorbent can be performed. This absorbent / adsorbent can be a solid absorbent material, for example, a fibrous cellulose-based material such as paper, for example, filter paper. Alternatively or in combination, an adsorbent such as activated carbon, or any other adsorbent known to those skilled in the art, can be used. In this case, it may be advantageous to disperse or incorporate the adsorbent in or on an inert support such as cellulose or cellulose acetate, a resin, etc. Such supports are generally known to those skilled in the art. This absorption / adsorption can take place simultaneously during, and / or successively after, the extraction.The absorbent / adsorbent can therefore be positioned outside the reactor, for example in a tank, or within the reactor itself. In this case, the biological material to be extracted can be positioned near the absorbent / adsorbent material. Preferably, the biological material can be positioned away from the condensation and / or adsorption means for the extract. If an absorbent / adsorbent substrate is used, a subsequent separation step can be implemented to desorb the extract from the substrate.

[0121] According to certain aspects of the process of the invention, the losses associated with the use of open extraction systems such as enfleurage, or those using mass transfer with multiple stages and / or with potential denaturation of the extracts by heating or solvents, can be avoided. Thus, higher yields than those obtained by conventional processes can be achieved. These yields can range from 10% to 90%, preferably from 50% to 90%, by mass, particularly for biological material such as a flower, leaf, and / or fruit, or even a root. As illustrated in the examples, the extraction yield can vary depending on the nature of the biological material and its intrinsic moisture content.Thus, for example, the extraction yield for rose petals is around 85% extract, for mint aerial parts around 66% extract, for sliced ​​ginger around 60% extract, for chopped clementine peel (62% extract and 38% residual fraction), and for tree moss (85% extract and 15% residual fraction). Lower yields may be observed depending on the nature of the biological material, and more specifically, depending on a lower intrinsic water content, such as for cut vanilla pods (26% extract and 74% residual fraction) or chopped tree bark (12% extract and 88% residual fraction).

[0122] The process according to the invention makes it possible to obtain a natural fraction (extracted fraction and / or residual fraction) containing few or no secondary compounds and therefore corresponding as closely as possible to a natural extract of the biological material. The extract obtained, in particular the liquid extract (but also the residual material fraction), can be used as is, which can be particularly advantageous.

[0123] Of course, it is also possible to process this extract or residual fraction according to the various desired uses. Thus, without limitation, it can be subjected to steps such as agitation, decantation, centrifugation, filtration, freezing, precipitation, pressing, heating, sterilization, distillation, concentration, purification, and / or fractionation on a solid support. Depending on the nature of the fraction, it is also possible to incorporate it or them into another extraction or manufacturing process for any other composition.

[0124] When the material to be extracted is dry (see above), a re-wetting step of the biological material can be carried out prior to and / or concurrently with the extraction step. This re-wetting can be achieved by spraying, misting, and / or vaporizing the biological material with a humidifier or by placing it on a moist support that allows absorption of the humidifier by transfer. This humidifier can be a condensation solvent such as water, an alcohol (e.g., ethanol), or a mixture (e.g., 90% or 70% ethanol). If this step is carried out concurrently with the extraction, care must be taken to ensure that the irradiated surface is sufficiently unobstructed to allow the emission of the extract in the form of aerosol, vapor, and / or droplets.

[0125] Steps in obtaining residual material

[0126] The residual fraction is characterized in particular by the biological material lacking the extract described above. Preferably, this residual material is solid. In one specific case under consideration, it is a dry residual material with a very low moisture content, as previously indicated. To obtain the lowest possible moisture content, the fractionation process according to the invention advantageously comprises more than one extraction step and / or at least one agitation step of the biological material. This agitation step is conventionally carried out during the drying of biological material to separate unexposed fragments, or by turning over the material not exposed to radiation. The residual material fraction can thus generally exhibit improved stability with respect to the optical radiation used, which notably promotes its conservation and / or preservation, particularly during transport.

[0127] The residual material fraction can be advantageously used in the manufacture of dyes, pigments, compounds or active ingredients, paper, or filters. The yield of the residual fraction can range from 5% to 85% by mass, depending on the moisture content of the initial biological material. However, it is higher for biological material with a low moisture content, such as wood. Device

[0128] In another aspect, the invention also relates to a device for implementing the separation process described above. It may therefore include an element and / or means previously described.

[0129] This device therefore includes a reactor, preferably closed, suitable for containing the biological material to be extracted, and an optical radiation source as described above, and possibly a biological material support.

[0130] The reactor is therefore of a shape and size suitable for containing the biological material to be extracted and is chosen accordingly. This reactor is preferably closed and may therefore advantageously include means of access to the interior of the reactor, such as a door, hatch, opening, etc., and means of closure, such as a lid, door, etc. Such a reactor may advantageously be a sealed enclosure to prevent the loss of the extract in gaseous or droplet form and to promote its extraction and condensation. A reactor and / or device that is gas-tight and / or fluid-tight may be considered to optimize the recovery of the extract.

[0131] Advantageously, the reactor includes means for transferring and / or capturing the gaseous, vapor, and / or liquid extract. These can be positioned inside the tank (see above) or outside. In the latter case, a conduit can carry the extract from the reactor vessel to a tank. The closure means should advantageously be adapted with a sealing system to contain most of the extract inside the device, advantageously at least until it condenses. The closure means should advantageously be adapted to facilitate the evacuation of the extract once it has condensed inside the device.

[0132] The reactor includes a means for exposing the biological material to optical radiation emitted by the optical radiation source. It may seem simpler to position the radiation source outside the reactor, but this is not mandatory. When the radiation source is external, the reactor includes a transparent wall, which is generally perpendicular to the direction of propagation of the optical radiation applied to the biological material and can be positioned on top. The biological material is obviously positioned facing this wall, preferably without being in contact with it. The material of this reactor wall can advantageously be glass, optical glass, fused silica, quartz, or a plastic such as a polymer like polypropylene, or even diamond or sapphire, etc.

[0133] Preferably, the wall is chosen to have a known thickness for optimal transmittance over the chosen radiation range. For example, a flat clear glass wall 2 mm thick has given satisfactory results. However, the wall need not be flat; it can be curved for optimal illumination, and a person skilled in the art can easily choose the best configuration. Preferably, all the reactor walls are transparent to the desired radiation, which simplifies the installation of one or more optical radiation sources. Alternatively, the reactor walls other than those allowing the transmission of optical radiation can be made of stainless steel or any other radiation-reflecting material. When, according to a variant of the invention, the light source is placed inside the reactor, the reactor walls may comprise or be made of a reflective material.

[0134] According to another preferred aspect, the bottom of the reactor can be inclined or curved to allow continuous gravimetric flow of the extract advantageously condensed during extraction to a reservoir preferably remote and in particular positioned outside the field of optical radiation.

[0135] According to another aspect of the invention, the device according to the invention may include a device for protecting the biological material from receiving radiation other than that specifically chosen. The device may also be positioned in an enclosure or cabinet that does not allow the passage of optical radiation, such as, for example, sunlight. This aspect is particularly advantageous for controlling the extraction conditions. An additional advantage of such a device is that it prevents glare for users during extraction. On an industrial scale, it is envisaged that the devices according to the invention could be stacked to save space.

[0136] The reactor may advantageously include a support for receiving the biological material. This support may have a surface, particularly a flat one, for placing the biological material. This surface is advantageously kept at a distance from the walls and the bottom of the reactor, for example by feet. The distance from the reactor walls may be greater than 5 mm, and more particularly greater than 10 mm, and advantageously greater than 15 mm. The distance from the bottom of the reactor may be greater than 5 mm, and more particularly greater than 10 mm.

[0137] The surface of the support is advantageously permeable and includes pores and / or openings of dimensions appropriate to the type (dry, flexible, soft, etc.) and dimensions of the material to be extracted. It may comprise or be made of a sieve, net, and / or cloth with a mesh of appropriate shape, such as diamonds, and / or with meshes advantageously larger than or equal to approximately 10 x 5.5 mm. For dry materials, they are preferably larger than or equal to 6 x 3.3 mm. When the biological material to be extracted is a solid, the support may be sized to accommodate a material thickness ranging, in particular, from 1 to 2000 mm, especially from 1 to 500 mm, advantageously from 1 to 200 mm, preferably from 1 to 50 mm, and more particularly from 1 to 30 mm. It may also comprise a sheet of porous material, such as filter paper.

[0138] The surface can be surrounded by a border of a particularly suitable height, namely from 2 mm to less than 2010 mm, in particular from 1 to 510 mm, advantageously from 1 to 210 mm, preferably from 2 mm to less than 60 mm, and more particularly less than 40 mm.

[0139] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the support may comprise a sheet of permeable, and optionally absorbent, material, such as paper, blotting paper, or absorbent material, onto which the biological material may be placed. This material is advantageously deposited on all or part of said surface of the support.

[0140] According to another preferred aspect of the invention, the surface can be inclined at an angle appropriate to the morphology of the biological material; for example, this angle is chosen to be between 1° and 90°, and more particularly between 5° and 15°. Indeed, the device according to the invention can position the biological material in such a way as to improve the access of the light flux to specific parts of the material to be extracted, such as the interior of flowers. Additionally or alternatively, other positioning means can be considered, such as a clamping orifice and / or an additional accessory for physically holding the biological material, for example, a clip.

[0141] According to another preferred aspect of the invention, the device and / or reactor may also include a means of protection against light radiation to exclude certain area(s) from radiation exposure. Such a means may include a shield or element made of a light-absorbing material, such as aluminum, arranged to partially intercept the light radiation.

[0142] Advantageously, a humidifying liquid and / or a condensation solvent may be present in the reactor, which may therefore also include a means for making it available. This is particularly advantageous when the biological material is dry (see above). This means for dispensing a controlled, and generally limited, quantity of liquid or solvent must be positioned so as not to substantially restrict the emission of the extract from the surface of the biological material under the effect of irradiation. This means may include a reservoir allowing its controlled dispensing, for example, absorbent paper soaked in liquid or solvent, or a misting device.

[0143] It has been observed that when water-laden biological materials shrink and decrease in volume due to extraction, the surface area exposed to radiation increases. Therefore, a certain thickness of material (e.g., up to 3 cm) can be extracted without stirring or agitating the biological material, which is advantageous for fragile materials. This is particularly true for materials with large specific surface areas, such as flowers, leaves, or petals. However, for some materials that do not shrink or shrink very little during extraction, such as dry materials, it may be advisable to spread them in a thin layer (e.g., less than 1 cm thick) and / or to use means of agitation, turning, or detachment, such as repeating the process with a change of sieve.

[0144]

[0145] A solid, liquid, viscous or gaseous extract obtained according to the process of the invention or by the device according to the invention is also an object of the invention. Brief description of the figures

[0146] The invention will be better understood upon reading the following description, given solely by way of example and made with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0147] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a device according to the invention used to implement the method described in Example 1.

[0148] Figure 2 represents the GC / MS chromatograms of the gas phase analysis of the three rose petal extracts obtained according to Example 2 by adsorption on a Tenax under vacuum (1 hour at 40°C) and thermal desorption coupled with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC / MS): from top to bottom (a) fresh petals (b) petals kept away from light (c) petals heated to 50°C.

[0149] Figure 3 represents the chromatograms of the gas phase analysis of the two extracts of aerial parts of mint obtained according to example 3 by adsorption on a Tenax under vacuum (1 hour at 25°C) and thermal desorption coupled with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC / MS): from top to bottom (a) light source 2 and (b) light source 1.

[0150] Figure 4 represents the chromatograms of the gas phase analysis of the two ginger root extracts obtained according to Example 4 by adsorption on a Tenax under vacuum (1 hour at 25°C) and thermal desorption coupled with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC / MS): from top to bottom (a) light source 2 and (b) light source 1.

[0151] Figure 5 represents the chromatograms of the gas phase analysis of three lily of the valley extracts obtained according to Example 5 by adsorption on a Tenax type sorbent (polymer based on 2,6-diphenyl-p-phenylene oxide) under vacuum (36 hours at 21-25°C) and thermal desorption coupled with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC / MS): from top to bottom (a) light source 3, (b) light source 1 and (c) light source 2. These chromatograms are of the same type as those carried out previously. Detailed description

[0152] Example 1 - Experimental device for photoextraction according to the invention

[0153] A device according to the invention, adapted to laboratory scale, is used and schematically represented in Figure 1. This device comprises: a circular conical photo-reactor body (container) made of colorless transparent glass, 10 mm in diameter at the top and 145 mm in depth and 80 mm deep. A perforated basket 20 made of aluminum wire mesh, 70 mm deep, is placed inside the photoreactor 10. The plant material 30 (here, 15 grams of rose petals) is positioned in the basket 20. The thickness of this plant material 30 varies from 30 to 60 mm. The distance between the bottom of the basket 20 and the bottom of the reactor 10 is approximately 10 mm. The basket 20 receives the plant material to be extracted and exposes it to light. The mesh of the basket 20 (here, a diamond-shaped mesh measuring 16 x 8 mm for the edges and 10 x 5.5 mm for the base) is also used. In this example, the photoreactor 10 advantageously includes a lid 40, here a transparent and colorless glass plate 2 mm thick and measuring 150 x 150 mm. Optical radiation generated by four LED bulbs 52 is directed perpendicularly to the plane of the lid 40 towards the plant material. The distance between the light source (surface of the LEDs 52) and the glass lid 40 is 35 mm. The four LEDs 52 are spaced between 5 and 20 mm apart. These distances allow for the dissipation of heat generated by the LEDs 52. The photoreactor 10 in this example is housed in an enclosure with mirrors 50 on the vertical and horizontal walls, reflecting light towards the plant material 30 placed in the basket 20. In the following examples, the ambient temperature outside the photoreactor 10 is generally lower than inside it. This difference allows for the condensation of a liquid extract on the internal walls of the photoreactor 10, when desired. In the examples below, this temperature outside the reactor 10 is generally regulated at 22 ± 3°C and can be measured using a thermometer-hygrometer. The relative humidity of the ambient air outside the reactor 10 has been measured to be between 33 and 44%. Light sources 1, 2 and 3

[0154] Two types of light emissions covering the entire wavelength range of visible radiation, i.e., from 380 to 780 nm, were used in these examples: a "neutral white" light emission (light source 1, or SL1) and a "warm white" light emission (light source 2, or SL2); both are emitted by light-emitting diodes (LEDs). A third light source, or SL3 (LEDs), was used for a "cool white" light emission. Such LEDs are commercially available and include, among other things, a diffuser, or lens. The individual characteristics of these bulbs are as follows:

[0155] SL1:

[0156] The SL1 light source comprises four identical commercial bulbs, each with a power rating of 5.7 W, and flat, circular diffusers. In this particular case, each bulb contains eight light-emitting diodes (LEDs). They are specified as having a color temperature of 2700 K, an intensity of 540 lumens, and a beam angle of 36°. Each bulb has a diffuser diameter of 50 mm and a housing height of 54 mm. The stated energy consumption is 6 kWh for 10,000 hours, the estimated lifespan is 15,000 hours, and the bulbs are recyclable. The electromagnetic emission in the visible spectrum, measured along the axis of the light beam at a distance of 70 mm, exhibits a luminous intensity of 136,000 lux with dominant wavelengths in the 560-650 nm band.At a distance of 1 cm from the diffuser, the intensity is saturating and unmeasurable, i.e. greater than 200000 lux over all wavelengths of the visible range.

[0157] SL2:

[0158] The light source is generated by four identical commercial LED bulbs, each with a power rating of 5.7 W, of a type similar to those previously described, and each also comprising eight light-emitting diodes (LEDs). In this case, these bulbs are specified as having a color temperature of 4000 K. The electromagnetic emission in the visible spectrum is measured at a distance of 70 mm along the axis of the light beam and exhibits a luminous intensity of 141,000 lux, with dominant wavelengths in the 480 nm and 580-620 nm bands. At 1 cm from the outer surface of the diffuser, the intensity is unmeasurable at saturation, exceeding 200,000 lux across all wavelengths of the visible spectrum.

[0159] SL3:

[0160] The SL3 light source comprises six identical commercial bulbs, each with a power rating of 9.5 W, and flat, circular diffusers. Each bulb uses LED technology. They are specified as having a color temperature of 6000 K (measured with an average of 6600 K), a brightness of 880 lumens, and a beam angle of 110°. Each bulb has a diffuser diameter of 50 mm and a housing height of 57 mm. The stated energy consumption is 9.5 kWh for 1,000 hours, the estimated lifespan is 25,000 hours, and the bulbs are recyclable.The electromagnetic emission in the visible spectrum is measured along the axis of the light beam at a distance of 70 mm and exhibits an average luminous intensity of 143,000 lux, with dominant wavelengths in an intense band in the 440-480 nm range and a less intense broad band in the 520-620 nm range. At a distance of 1 cm from the diffuser, the intensity is unmeasurable at saturation, exceeding 200,000 lux across all wavelengths of the visible spectrum.

[0161] Example 2 - Extraction process according to the invention of volatile compounds from rose petals

[0162] a) Extract of fresh rose petals

[0163] 15 ± 1 g of freshly harvested, fragrant, and colorful rose petals (fuchsia rose) are immediately placed in the basket. The basket is then inserted into the photoreactor 10, and the lid 40 is positioned to close the photoreactor 10. The assembly is exposed to the light source 1 emitted by the LED lamps 52, according to the specifications described in Example 1, with a distance of 35 mm between the outer surface of the lid 40 and the surface of the diffuser of the bulbs 52, for 12 hours. The petals then appear completely dried. Within the first 30 minutes of the process, a mist was observed in the photoreactor 10, which then condensed into a liquid extract on the walls and at the bottom of the reactor 10. Once dried, the petals retain their original color, but in a darker and more intense shade due to the concentration and the absence of degradation.

[0164] The ambient temperature in photoreactor 10 during photoextraction was monitored by infrared measurement using a thermal imaging camera. This temperature varied on average between 37-42°Cr

[0165] The resulting rose petal extract is transparent. It was collected by aspiration (the distillates or droplets present on the vertical walls were scraped off) and then weighed: with a collected weight of 13 ± 1 g of extract, the yield was 87% by mass. The liquid extract is fragrant and typical of the rose scent. The extract was analyzed by GC / MS (see Figure 2) and revealed molecules characteristic of the rose scent, particularly phenylethyl alcohol.

[0166] Once extracted, the dried petals are collected and weighed: with a weight of 2±1g, the yield of the residual fraction is 13% by mass. The residual solid fraction has an intense color, darker than the original color.

[0167] b) Extracts of rose petals after storage

[0168] 11 ± 1 g of rose petals similar to those used previously are detached from fresh roses and placed in the basket, then in the closed photoreactor. The assembly is stored in the dark at an ambient temperature of 20 ± 5 °C for 36 hours. The petals are then exposed to the light source 1 according to the method of the invention and under the same conditions as described previously for the fresh petals.

[0169] The extract is transparent and weighs 9 ± 1 g, resulting in a yield of 82% by mass. The dry extract petals are collected and weighed: with a weight of 2 ± 1 g, the yield is 18%. The dry solid fraction exhibits an intense but partially brown color, indicative of the presence of secondary compounds associated with potential degradation during storage.

[0170] c) Extracts of rose petals after heating

[0171] 14 ± 1 g of petals similar to those used previously are placed in the reactor basket, which is then sealed and placed in an oven at 50°C for 14 hours. After this heating, the petals are uniformly brown, indicating degradation. After opening the reactor, the petals have a mass of 12 ± 1 g. The petals are then photoextracted according to the procedure described in the previous examples.

[0172] The colorless and odorous liquid extract is collected and then weighed: with a weight of 10g, the yield is 83% by mass.

[0173] The dry extracted petals are collected and weighed: with a weight of 2±1g, the yield is 17%. The solid fraction has a brown color.

[0174] GC / MS Analysis of the Extracts of the Different Extracts According to the Invention: The three colorless, fragrant liquid extracts were analyzed under the same conditions by GC / MS. The chromatograms in Figure 2 show that the extracts all contain molecules characteristic of the rose scent, such as phenylethyl alcohol. However, the plant material extracts that have undergone potential transformation due to storage time (Fig. 2b) and / or exposure to a temperature of 50°C (Fig. 2c) exhibit different characteristics, notably different ratios between the naturally occurring compounds. Such variations may, in some cases, be desirable, for example, if they are characteristic of the expected extract, or undesirable, for example, if the goal is to obtain the pure fragrance of the plant material.

[0175] It should be noted that mass yields similar to that of Example 1a) were obtained on frozen petals (83%) which retained a darker color than their original shade. The yield is slightly lower on withered petals (62%), this being probably due to the loss of, among other things, volatile constituents and water.

[0176] Example 3 - Extraction process according to the invention of volatile compounds from Mentha Spicata L. mint leaves

[0177] a) Use of Light Source 1 (see Example 1)

[0178] 20±1g of cut spearmint leaves and stems are introduced immediately after harvesting into a photoreactor of the same type as that described in Example 1. They are subjected to photo-extraction according to the conditions described in Example 1 with the following variations:

[0179] The rectangular basket measures 100 x 160 mm and is 40 mm high. The rectangular photoreactor measures 210 x 150 mm and is 60 mm high. It is closed with a 250 x 200 mm glass plate. The light source used consists of six SL1 lamps arranged in a staggered pattern on the same plane, with a distance of approximately 20 mm between the lamp diffusers. The lamp diffusers are positioned 5 mm from the lid and approximately 35 mm from the biological material. After approximately four hours of extraction, the leaves have a dried appearance. The colorless, fragrant liquid extract collected weighs 12 ± 1 g. The mass yield is therefore 60 ± 5%. The fragrant liquid extract was analyzed by GC / MS and contains molecules characteristic of Mentha spicata L., such as carvone.

[0180] The extracted leaves are collected and weighed: with a weight of 7±1g, the yield is 35±5% by mass. The solid fraction has an intense green color.

[0181] b) Use of Light Source 2 (see Example 1)

[0182] The process described in Example 3a) above is replicated identically, except that the light source is generated using 6 SL2 type lamps and a weight of 21 ±1 g of mint leaves and stems. The mass of the colorless and fragrant extract collected is 13 ±1 g, and the yield is 62 ±5% by mass.

[0183] The extracted leaves are collected and weighed: with a weight of 7±1g, the yield is 33±5%. The solid residual fraction has a green color.

[0184] Analysis of the extracts by GC / MS of the different extracts according to the invention

[0185] The two colorless, fragrant liquid extracts obtained according to processes 3a) and 3b) described above were analyzed under the same conditions by GC / MS. The chromatograms in Figure 3 show the presence of molecules characteristic of the odor of Mentha spicata L., such as carvone.

[0186] These chromatograms also indicate that the distribution of wavelengths of the applied light makes it possible to obtain extracts with different compositions, particularly in terms of compounds or ratios between them.

[0187] Notes: This process generated mass yields of the same order of magnitude for spinach leaves (90% extract and 10% residual fraction), aerial parts of rosemary (80% extract and 20% residual fraction), aerial parts of basil (67% extract and 33% residual fraction). Example 4 - Extraction process according to the invention of compounds from ginger root

[0188] a) Use of Light Source 1 (see device in Example 2)

[0189] 38 ± 1 g of fresh ginger roots, previously sliced, are placed in the 40 mm high basket and then in the photoreactor, which is closed with the glass plate before photo-extraction. The photoreactor and light source are as described in Example 3.

[0190] Exposure to the light source was carried out until apparent drying, i.e. for approximately 18 hours.

[0191] The extract was collected by aspiration (potential condensates on the vertical walls were scraped) and then weighed: with a weight of 25 ± 1 g, the yield was 66 ± 3% by mass. The fragrant liquid extract was analyzed by GC / MS and showed the presence of odor molecules from ginger root, particularly eucalyptol. The extracted roots are collected and weighed: with a weight of 9±1g, the yield is 24±3% by mass. The dry residue is beige in color, with a striated appearance but remains soft like gum.

[0192] b) Use of Light Source 2 (see device in Example 2)

[0193] The process described in Example 4a) above is replicated identically, except that the light source is generated with six SL2 lamps instead of SL1s, and a weight of 32 ± 1 g of fresh ginger root, previously sliced, is used. The collected colorless, fragrant extract is 21 ± 1 g, with a yield of 66 ± 3% by mass. The fragrant liquid extract is analyzed by GC / MS and contains fragrant molecules from the ginger root, particularly eucalyptol.

[0194] The extracted roots were collected and weighed: with a weight of 9±1g, the yield is 28±3% by mass. As before, the dry residue is beige in color with a striated appearance, but remains soft like gum.

[0195] Analysis of the extracts by GC / MS of the different extracts according to the invention

[0196] The two colorless, odorous liquid extracts were analyzed under the same conditions by GC / MS. The chromatograms in Figure 4 confirm the presence of molecules characteristic of ginger root, such as eucalyptol. They also indicate that the type of light applied allows for extracts with different characteristics, particularly in terms of the constituents or the ratios between the observed constituents.

[0197] Example 5 - Extraction process according to the invention of compounds from lily of the valley stems

[0198] A photoreactor of the same type as that described in Example 1 is used. The lily of the valley strands are subjected to photoextraction under the conditions described in Example 1 with the following variations:

[0199] - The photo-reactor is rectangular, measuring 210x150 mm and 60 mm in height.

[0200] - This one is closed with a glass plate measuring 250x200 mm.

[0201] A perforated support, measuring 105 x 150 mm, made of aluminum wire mesh with a 16 x 8 mm diamond pattern, without a rim, and with a surface inclined at a width of 10° ± 5°, is inserted and held at a minimum distance of 10 mm from the bottom of the reactor. The lily of the valley stems, hanging upside down, are held by this support by securing the stem tips in the mesh at the top of the support, thus limiting the amount of light reaching the stem tips. In this way, the stem supporting the cluster of flowers or bells is held in such a way that the bells are distributed on either side of the stem, facing the light beam.

[0202] The light sources used consisted of six SL1, SL2, or SL3 lamps arranged in a staggered pattern on the same plane, with a distance of approximately 20 mm between their diffusers. The diffusers were positioned 40 mm from the glass plate for SL1 and SL2, and 33 mm for SL3.

[0203] The environment outside the reactor is air-conditioned to 21°C and the relative humidity of the ambient air is 42%.

[0204] a) Use of Light Source 3

[0205] 9±1g of fresh lily of the valley stems are introduced into the reactor via the dedicated support.

[0206] Exposure to the SL3 light source was carried out for 2 hours.

[0207] The liquid extract was collected by aspiration (potential condensates on the vertical walls were scraped) and then weighed: with a weight of 4 ± 1 g, the yield was 40 ± 25% by mass. The fragrant liquid extract was analyzed by GC / MS and showed odor molecules from the lily of the valley head space. The residual fraction had a dark green stem.

[0208] b) Use of Light Source 1

[0209] 4±1g of fresh lily of the valley stems are introduced into the reactor, on the support.

[0210] Exposure to the SL1 light source was carried out for 3 hours.

[0211] The extract was collected by aspiration (potential condensates on the vertical walls were scraped) and then weighed: with a weight of 2 ± 1 g, the yield was 50 ± 25% by mass. The slightly fragrant liquid extract was analyzed by GC / MS and showed odor molecules from the lily of the valley head space. The residual fraction had a dark green stem.

[0212] c) Use of Light Source 2

[0213] 4±1g of fresh lily of the valley stems are introduced into the reactor via the dedicated support.

[0214] Exposure to the SL2 light source was carried out for 3 hours.

[0215] The extract was collected by aspiration (potential condensates on the vertical walls were scraped) and then weighed: with a weight of 4 ± 1 g, the yield was 100 ± 25% by mass. The fragrant liquid extract was analyzed by GC / MS and showed odor molecules from the lily of the valley headspace. The residual fraction had a dark green stem.

[0216] Analysis of the extracts by GC / MS of the different extracts according to the invention

[0217] The three colorless and fragrant liquid extracts were analyzed under the same conditions by GC / MS. The chromatograms in Figure 5 show the presence of molecules characteristic of the lily of the valley headspace, predominantly benzyl alcohol, phenylethyl alcohol, and benzaldehyde, and to a lesser extent C5-C8 alcohols and terpenes such as citronellol. It also indicates that the type of light applied allows for extracts with different characteristics, particularly in terms of constituents or the ratio between the observed constituents. The invention is not limited to the embodiments presented, and other embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

Demands 1. A process for extracting biological material comprising the following steps: - to place said biological material in a closed device comprising a reactor, -exposing a surface of said material to optical radiation characterized by one or more wavelengths within a range of 380 to 780 nm, said radiation producing a luminous illumination of said surface ranging from 10,000 x 10⁻¹⁰ to 299,000 x 10⁻¹⁰, and thereby producing the emission by said surface of a fluid extract in the form of a vapor, microdroplets and / or an aerosol; and possibly - collect said fluid extract.

2. The process according to claim 1, wherein said extract is an extract not containing pigments and preferably a colorless extract.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said wavelength(s) of said optical radiation comprise only one or more wavelengths in the range from 380 to 780 nm and / or said optical radiation is white light.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein said optical radiation also comprises radiation in the UV-A wavelength(s) from 315 nm to 380 nm and / or UV-B wavelength(s) from 280 nm to 315 nm.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein said optical radiation also comprises Wood's light type radiation having a radiation from 315 to 400 nm.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein said optical radiation also comprises radiation having one or more wavelengths in the range from 315 nm to 900 nm.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1, 2 or 6, wherein said optical radiation also comprises radiation having one or more wavelengths in the range from 280 nm to 315 nm, referred to as "pink".

8. The method according to any one of claims 1, 2, 6 or 7, wherein said optical radiation also comprises radiation having one or more wavelengths in the range from 315 nm to 380 nm, referred to as "ultraviolet".

9. The method according to any one of claims 1, 2 or 6 to 8, wherein said optical radiation also comprises radiation having one or more wavelengths in the range from 380 nm to 430 nm, referred to as "violet".

10. The method according to any one of claims 1, 2 or 6 to 9, wherein said optical radiation also comprises radiation having one or more wavelengths in the range from 430 nm to 480 nm, referred to as "blue".

11. The method according to any one of claims 1, 2 or 6 to 10, wherein said optical radiation also comprises radiation having one or more wavelengths in the range from 480 nm to 560 nm, referred to as "green".

12. The method according to any one of claims 1, 2 or 6 to 11, wherein said optical radiation also comprises radiation having one or more wavelengths in the range from 560 nm to 580 nm, referred to as "yellow".

13. The method according to any one of claims 1, 2 or 6 to 12, wherein said optical radiation also comprises radiation having one or more wavelengths in the range from 580 nm to 620 nm, referred to as "orange".

14. The method according to any one of claims 1, 2 or 6 to 13, wherein said optical radiation also comprises radiation having one or more wavelengths in the range from 620 nm to 800 nm, referred to as "red".

15. The process according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the fluid extract is condensed into a liquid and / or precipitated into a solid.

16. The process according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the condensation is carried out in the presence of a condensation solvent such as water and / or ethanol.

17. The process according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the biological material is a part of a plant material and in particular a part of a plant preferably selected from the group consisting of stems, leaves, twigs, flowers, seeds, beans, fruits, roots, tubers, wood, bark, thorns, sap, resins, gums, fruit peels or skins, flower petals and mixtures thereof.

18. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said luminous illumination of said surface is from 30000 to 290000 Ix, preferably from 80000 to 299000 Ix.

19. The process according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the extraction is a fractionation carried out in the absence of an extraction solvent, in particular on said surface of said biological material.

20. The process according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said biological material is dry and / or a humidification step is carried out before and / or during extraction.

21. The process according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the extraction is carried out at an average temperature ranging from ambient temperature, for example from 18°C ​​to 25°C, to 65°C, or preferably to 45°C and more particularly to 37°C.

22. The process according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the biological material comprises a rose, peony, sweet pea, iris, jasmine, tuberose, violet, mimosa, lilac, acacia, gardenia, freesia, hyacinth, wisteria, lily, narcissus, heliotrope, daffodil, mock orange, or magnolia flower and in particular lily of the valley.

23. The process according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the plant material is a vegetable, such as beetroot or carrot, a fruit, such as citrus fruit, raspberry, strawberry, or pear, vanilla, a condiment, a spice such as a dried berry, seaweed, a fungus, such as truffle, a moss such as tree moss, a grain such as coffee, a bean such as cocoa or an aromatic herb such as thyme or rosemary.

24. An extraction device comprising a reactor suitable for containing biological material and having a wall transparent to optical radiation, said device comprising an optical radiation source, said source emitting optical radiation and being arranged relative to the reactor so that the optical radiation received inside the reactor by a surface of said biological material is optical radiation having one or more wavelength(s) selected in a range from 315 to 900 nm, preferably from 380 to 780 nm, and such that the light irradiance received from said surface is from 10,000 Ix to 299,000 Ix and preferably from 30,000 to 299,000 Ix. 25.The extraction device according to claim 24, wherein the biological material is solid and wherein said reactor comprises a permeable support such as a basket and / or a sheet of material for collecting said biological material, said basket comprising openings allowing emission of the extract and / or preventing maceration.

26. The extraction device according to any one of claims 24 to 25, wherein said radiation source comprises an LED diode and preferably several LED diodes, these being advantageously arranged in a staggered pattern relative to each other.

27. An extract of biological material, said extract being obtained, or being obtainable, according to the process as described in any one of claims 1 to 23.

28. A residual fraction of biological material, said extract being obtained, or being obtainable, according to the process as described in any one of claims 1 to 23.

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