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Pilot scale processing of detergent-based aqueous two-phase systems.
1Institute für Enzymtechnologie der Heinrich-Heine Universität Düsseldorf, Forschungszentrum Jülich, D-52426 Julich, Germany.
Biotechnology and Bioengineering
|July 20, 1997
Summary
Separating detergent-based aqueous two-phase systems is challenging due to unique properties. This study demonstrates successful pilot-scale separation using gravity settling and centrifugal separators, paving the way for industrial applications.
Area of Science:
- Biochemical Engineering
- Separation Science
Background:
- Detergent-based aqueous two-phase systems (ATPS) exhibit challenging properties like minimal density differences and complex rheology.
- These characteristics complicate the separation and purification of components within these systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of pilot-scale separation techniques for detergent-based ATPS.
- To assess the performance of different centrifugal separators for industrial application.
Main Methods:
- Pilot-scale separation experiments (1-20 kg) were conducted using gravity settling and centrifugal separators.
- Performance analysis focused on self-desludging liquid-liquid separators and nozzle separators.
- Separation efficiency was evaluated with and without microbial cells, considering varying feed rates.
Main Results:
- Stable operation was achieved in a self-desludging liquid-liquid separator at a feed rate of 16 L/h.
- A nozzle separator processed higher feed rates (up to 90 L/h) but yielded slightly lower phase purity and top-phase recovery.
- The presence of surface-active components significantly impacted separation performance.
Conclusions:
- Pilot-scale separation of detergent-based ATPS is feasible using centrifugal separators.
- Self-desludging liquid-liquid separators offer stable operation, while nozzle separators provide higher throughput with minor trade-offs in purity.
- Further research is needed to optimize separation in the presence of surface-active components for large-scale applications.
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