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Kinetics of phase separation under different process and design parameters in aqueous two-phase systems
C Solano-Castillo1, M Rito-Palomares
1Centro de Biotecnología, Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey, Mexico.
Summary
The study found that a lower height/diameter ratio in settlers significantly speeds up phase separation in aqueous two-phase systems (ATPSs). Disrupted biological suspensions also enhance separation rates, aiding in equipment design.
Area of Science:
- Biochemical Engineering
- Separation Processes
Background:
- Aqueous two-phase systems (ATPSs) are utilized for bioseparations.
- Understanding phase separation kinetics is crucial for efficient ATPS design.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of settler geometry, specifically the height/diameter (H/D) ratio, on phase separation kinetics in ATPSs.
- To evaluate the influence of biological suspensions (whey and yeast) on phase separation rates.
Main Methods:
- Batch studies were conducted using Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) 1000-phosphate systems.
- The effect of undiluted and diluted whey and disrupted yeast suspensions was analyzed.
- Phase separation times were measured across varying H/D ratios.
Main Results:
- Phase separation was significantly faster in settlers with a H/D ratio less than one (larger cross-sectional area).
- Disrupted biological suspensions accelerated the phase separation process.
- Undiluted suspensions notably slowed down the rate of phase separation.
Conclusions:
- The H/D ratio of settlers is a critical parameter influencing phase separation efficiency in ATPSs.
- Biological suspension characteristics (e.g., disruption state, concentration) impact separation kinetics.
- Findings provide insights for optimizing settler design and process parameters for ATPS applications.