In-situ lactic acid extraction using emulsion liquid membrane technology
Innovative emulsion liquid membrane (ELM) technology enables in-situ extraction of lactic acid from fermentation broths, addressing end-product inhibition and enhancing productivity. This method offers a low-energy, environmentally friendly alternative to traditional separation techniques.
Overview
In-situ lactic acid extraction using emulsion liquid membrane (ELM) technology presents a breakthrough in bio-separation processes. This innovative approach addresses the challenge of end-product inhibition in lactic acid fermentation by continuously removing metabolites from the broth. By coupling cell immobilization with ELM, the process enhances microbial efficiency and reduces production costs, making it an attractive alternative to traditional separation methods.
Technical specifications
- Emulsion Liquid Membrane (ELM): Capable of separation against concentration gradients, requiring low energy and solvent inventory.
- Cell Immobilization: Enhances fermentation performance by improving microorganism tolerance and efficiency.
- Process Integration: Combines fermentation and separation in a single step to maintain productivity and reduce environmental impact.
- Experimental Methodology: Fermentation with immobilized cells, followed by ELM extraction and recycling of fermentation broth, leading to pure lactic acid after demulsification.
Technology readiness level
The development of this technology is at TRL 4, indicating that it has been validated in a laboratory environment with plans for further optimization and application testing. The research includes formulating stable ELMs, optimizing process parameters, and integrating ELM technology with fermentation for effective lactic acid extraction.
About Sant Longowal Institute of Engineering & Technology
SLIET is a Government of India–funded, deemed‑to‑be university and centrally funded technical institute in Longowal, Punjab, with a residential campus and an applied, practice‑oriented engineering focus. Co‑located teaching/research labs, central workshops, and departmental pilot‑plant assets enable prototyping, scale‑up, and contract testing; faculty also deliver consultancy and access to instrumentation. A dedicated Training & Placement office connects companies to talent via internships, industrial training, and on‑campus recruitment. Research is supported by competitive national funding, including projects backed by DST and AICTE. An Institute Innovation Cell, incubation support, and an institutional IP policy provide routes for IP protection, licensing, and startup formation.
delivered to your inbox.