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Process analysis and modeling of a single-step lutein extraction method for wet microalgae.
Mengyue Gong1, Yuruihan Wang1, Amarjeet Bassi2
1Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5B9, Canada.
Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology
|October 2, 2017
Summary
Microalgae offer a sustainable source for lutein production. This study optimized a rapid, single-step process for extracting lutein from wet microalgae biomass, achieving high yields economically.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Natural Product Chemistry
- Process Engineering
Background:
- Lutein, a valuable carotenoid, is commercially produced from marigold flowers.
- Microalgae present a promising alternative source for lutein extraction.
- Efficient extraction from wet biomass is crucial for economic viability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze and optimize a single-step process for simultaneous extraction, saponification, and purification of free lutein from wet microalgae biomass.
- To evaluate the extraction kinetics and influencing factors for lutein recovery.
- To develop a cost-effective and scalable method for lutein production.
Main Methods:
- Process analysis of a single-step extraction, saponification, and purification.
- Evaluation of binary solvent mixtures for wet biomass extraction.
- Investigation of solvent type, polarity, cell disruption, and alkali/solvent ratios.
- Mathematical modeling using Fick's second law of diffusion to determine mass transfer coefficients and extraction rates.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated feasibility of binary solvent mixtures for wet microalgae extraction.
- First-time evaluation of lutein extraction kinetics from microalgae chloroplasts.
- Identified optimal conditions: ultrasonication pre-treatment, 0.5 h reaction, 0.27 L/g solvent ratio, 1:3 ether/ethanol mixture, and 1.25 g KOH/L.
- Achieved high lutein yields (>8 mg/g) within a 1-hour process.
Conclusions:
- The developed single-step process is efficient and economical for large-scale lutein production from microalgae.
- Extraction rate is significantly influenced by the alkali-to-solvent ratio.
- This method offers a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional lutein sources.
