Efficient Recovery and Purification of Biobased Chemicals Utilizing Liquid-to-Liquid Extraction Technology

D. Glatz
Koch Modular Process Systems,
United States

Keywords: Biobased chemicals, Extraction, Bio Manufacturing

Summary:

In recent years, industrial biologists have been designing systems for the production of organic chemicals from biomass generated via processes such as fermentation. Most of these processes produce low concentrations of organic chemicals that are higher boiling than water, and as such, distillation is not a viable first step for the recovery and purification process. Liquid-Liquid Extraction (LLE) is an ideal and efficient unit operation for the removal of many of these compounds either directly from the broth itself (whole broth) or from the broth after some pre-treatment step to separate the less desirable components such as cell mass, lignin, etc. The selection of the column type is critical for optimizing the performance and cost for extraction processes. Many biomass feed solutions, especially those produced by fermentation processes or by algae ponds, demonstrate a tendency to emulsify easily upon contact and mixing with an organic solvent. During the poster session, we will be prepared to discuss how and when liquid-liquid extraction technology can be applied to recover bio-chemicals and available to discuss its application across various industries and feedstocks as well as pilot testing, scale up and commercialization activities. Published reference articles available upon request. Thank you