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Sonic wave separation of invertase from a dilute solution to generated droplets
R D Tanner1, S Ko, V Loha
1Chemical Engineering Department, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA. rtanner@vuse.vanderbilt.edu
Applied Biochemistry and Biotechnology
|June 13, 2000
Summary
A new bubble fractionation method using ultrasonic waves significantly enhances protein concentration in droplets by 50%. This technique offers an easier and faster way to isolate proteins from dilute solutions.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Chemical Engineering
- Separation Science
Background:
- Droplet fractionation using a separatory funnel can concentrate proteins.
- Existing methods have limitations in efficiency and ease of use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an improved method for protein enrichment in droplets.
- To increase the efficiency and speed of protein transfer into droplets.
Main Methods:
- Utilized ultrasonic waves combined with a bubble gas stream for droplet generation.
- Employed bubble fractionation to enrich the protein concentration at the solution-air interface.
- Applied vacuum to aid in droplet transfer and condensation.
Main Results:
- Achieved approximately a 50% increase in protein concentration within the generated droplets.
- Demonstrated a higher partition coefficient (approx. 8.5) at pH 5.0.
- The new method is easier to use and generates droplets more rapidly than traditional separatory funnel methods.
Conclusions:
- The ultrasonic-enhanced bubble fractionation method is a more efficient technique for protein isolation.
- This method offers practical advantages for concentrating proteins from dilute solutions.
- Optimized protein recovery is achievable at specific pH conditions (pH 5.0).