Efficient recovery of individual short chain fatty acids from fermented broths
A novel method utilizing filtration, concentration, and ion-exchange chromatography for efficient purification of short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) from fermented broths, achieving high purity and concentration levels for sustainable food and health applications.
Overview
The proposed solution offers a cutting-edge method for the efficient recovery and purification of short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) from fermented broths. This method integrates three main steps: filtration, SCFA concentration, and ion-exchange chromatography. This approach is based on chromatographic expertise and recent advancements in fermentation, allowing for SCFA concentrations to increase from 23 g/L to 146 g/L with purities exceeding 90%. This technology has the potential to significantly impact food sustainability and health by providing enriched SCFA content in fermentation processes.
Technical specifications
- Filtration: Initial step to eliminate solid particles, microbial cells, and debris.
- Concentration: Adaptation of recent protocols to achieve SCFA concentrations over 90%.
- Ion-exchange chromatography: Utilizes strong anion-exchange resin and pH gradient elution for individual SCFA purification.
Additional contingency methods include solvent-efficient liquid-liquid extraction with 85% recovery and alternative HPLC columns for enhanced separation.
Technology readiness level
The current technology readiness level is 3, indicating experimental proof of concept. Further validation will enhance its application in developing sustainable and health-supporting fermentation processes.
About Universitat de Barcelona
The Universitat de Barcelona is a large, comprehensive public research university with an urban footprint across the city and a strong international profile. Industry connects through a university‑affiliated science and technology park that co‑locates companies with academic groups, providing shared labs, prototyping and pilot‑scale facilities, and on‑site incubation. Clinical translation is enabled by integration with leading teaching hospitals, and proximity to Barcelona’s innovation districts and global transport links supports collaboration with multinational R&D teams. Research is backed by competitive European Union programs and Spanish and Catalan public funding, and a dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, startup formation, and collaboration agreements.
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