Fatty acid extraction from crude glycerine using biomass-derived light biocrude
Innovative method for removing fatty acids from crude glycerine using biomass-derived light biocrude as an efficient and cost-effective solvent, meeting key environmental and safety standards.
Overview
This solution offers an innovative method for extracting fatty acids from crude glycerine using biomass-derived light biocrude as the solvent. This approach addresses the need for an eco-friendly and efficient solvent that is non-toxic, non-carcinogenic, and economical. The method leverages the unique properties of light biocrude, including its moderate boiling point and safety profile, making it ideal for industries that handle crude glycerine by-products, such as biodiesel production.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Utilizes biomass-derived light biocrude, which is both cost-effective and environmentally sustainable.
- The solvent has a moderate boiling point range of 120-180°C, making it suitable for fatty acid extraction without requiring extreme temperatures.
- Non-halogenated and non-irritating, ensuring safety in handling and application.
- Provisional patent filed for the low-cost biomass liquefaction process.
Process overview:
- Biomass liquefaction to produce light biocrude.
- Liquid-liquid extraction process to remove fatty acids from crude glycerine.
- Evaluation of residual TFA and biocrude in glycerine post-extraction.
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at TRL 4, indicating that it is in the laboratory validation stage. Future validation steps include scaling up the biomass liquefaction process, conducting detailed extraction analyses, and evaluating the impact of trace biocrude on glycerine applications, potentially with consumer-goods industry partners.
About South Dakota State University
South Dakota State University is a comprehensive public land‑grant research university serving a large statewide community. Industry engages through a university‑linked research and technology park that colocates tenant companies with faculty labs and pilot‑scale processing suites for de‑risking and demonstration. A statewide extension network and field sites provide real‑world environments for validation and market feedback, while shared‑use core facilities and tailored workforce pipelines connect talent and tools to corporate R&D. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from USDA and NSF, with additional awards from NIH and DOE, alongside state and industry partnerships. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP and industry agreements, and incubator space at the research park supports startup formation and scale‑up.
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