Tailoring Activated Carbons for Efficient Downstream Processing: Selective Liquid-Phase Adsorption of Lysine

Area of Science:

• Biochemical Engineering
• Separation Science
• Materials Science

Background:

• Lysine is a vital amino acid produced via glucose fermentation in biorefineries.
• Downstream processing in biorefineries is energy-intensive, increasing production costs.
• Adsorption using hydrophobic materials offers a sustainable alternative for separation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the selective separation of L-lysine from aqueous solutions using tailored activated carbons.
• To establish structure-adsorption relationships for activated carbons in lysine separation.
• To enhance lysine adsorption and separation efficiency from glucose.

Main Methods:

• Screening of various commercial activated carbons with diverse properties.
• Comprehensive characterization of activated carbon textural properties and surface functionalities.
• Systematic modification of activated carbon via oxidation to optimize adsorption performance.

Main Results:

• Identified specific surface area and oxygen functionalities as key factors in lysine adsorption.
• Achieved a 13-fold increase in lysine and glucose separation efficiency.
• Enhanced lysine adsorption by 30% through activated carbon modification.

Conclusions:

• Tailored activated carbons show significant potential for energy-efficient L-lysine separation.
• Oxidation modification of activated carbons effectively improves lysine adsorption and selectivity.
• This approach offers a cost-saving and resource-efficient alternative for lysine recovery in biorefineries.