Enhanced mycotoxin extraction using instant controlled pressure-drop (DIC) technology
Instant Controlled Pressure-Drop (DIC) technology improves mycotoxin extraction from cereals by utilizing high temperature and pressure treatments followed by rapid depressurization, enhancing porosity and facilitating better quantification of mycotoxins.
Overview
The Instant Controlled Pressure-Drop (DIC) technology represents a significant advancement in the extraction of mycotoxins from cereal samples. This thermo-mechanical process applies high temperature and pressure for short durations, followed by rapid depressurization. The DIC process enhances the porosity and specific surface area of cereals, leading to more efficient extraction and reliable quantification of mycotoxin levels. This technology has the potential to significantly improve food safety by optimizing the extraction conditions for these harmful compounds.
Technical specifications
The DIC process involves subjecting biological food matrices to saturated steam pressures ranging from 100 to 900 kPa for a few seconds. The process culminates in a controlled pressure-drop at rates exceeding 500 kPa per second, achieving a final vacuum pressure of 10 to 5 kPa. This induces instant auto-vaporization of water, causing expansion of cellular compartments and increasing porosity. The enhanced structural changes facilitate improved extraction efficiencies, as demonstrated in previous studies with phenolic compounds.
Key features:
- Saturated steam pressure treatments up to 900 kPa
- Rapid depressurization exceeding 500 kPa/s
- Final vacuum pressures between 10 to 5 kPa
- Significant increase in porosity and surface area
Technology readiness level
Currently, the DIC technology is at Technology Readiness Level 3. This indicates that the research is in the experimental proof of concept stage. Future validations will involve optimizing the DIC treatment parameters, including steam pressure and treatment time, to further enhance mycotoxin extraction efficiency.
About Tecnológico de Monterrey
Tecnológico de Monterrey is a leading private, multi-campus research university in Mexico, recognized for entrepreneurship and industry collaboration. Its Monterrey headquarters anchors an urban innovation district with open lab space, prototyping, and shared testing facilities that welcome corporate collaborators. An integrated health system supports clinical research and translation, while structured internships and challenge-driven partnerships connect companies with faculty and student talent year-round. Research is supported by competitive federal funding through Mexico’s national science and technology council, along with industry contracts and international sponsors. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, and startup formation.
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