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Published on: August 9, 2024
Membrane extraction for detoxification of biomass hydrolysates
David L Grzenia1, Daniel J Schell, S Ranil Wickramasinghe
1Ralph E. Martin Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72703, USA.
Bioresource Technology
|February 25, 2012
Summary
Membrane extraction efficiently removed inhibitors like sulfuric acid and furfurals from corn stover hydrolysates. This method enhanced ethanol yields by 10% compared to traditional ammonium hydroxide treatment.
Area of Science:
- Biochemical Engineering
- Separation Science
- Renewable Energy
Background:
- Corn stover hydrolysis produces inhibitors (sulfuric acid, acetic acid, furfurals) that hinder ethanol fermentation.
- Effective detoxification is crucial for improving biofuel production efficiency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate membrane extraction for removing key inhibitors from corn stover hydrolysates.
- To assess the efficiency of different organic extractants and regeneration methods.
- To compare ethanol yields after membrane extraction versus conventional detoxification.
Main Methods:
- Utilized microporous polypropylene hollow fiber membranes for liquid-liquid extraction.
- Employed organic extractants: 15% Alamine 336 in octanol, oleyl alcohol:octanol mixture, or oleyl alcohol.
- Investigated extractant regeneration using NaOH and ethanol back-extraction.
- Developed a module cleaning protocol for repeated use.
Main Results:
- Achieved rapid removal of sulfuric acid, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, and furfural.
- Observed decreased acetic acid removal efficiency at higher hydrolysate pH.
- Successfully regenerated the organic extractant and reused the membrane module.
- Detoxification via membrane extraction with 15% Alamine 336 in oleyl alcohol yielded 10% more ethanol.
Conclusions:
- Membrane extraction is a viable and efficient method for detoxifying corn stover hydrolysates.
- The process offers improved ethanol yields and potential for module reuse.
- Optimized extractant composition and regeneration are key to process effectiveness.
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