Mesoporous materials for bioacid extraction using natural amino acids
Innovative mesoporous materials modified with natural amino acids for selective extraction of microbial-produced acids from aqueous environments, mimicking biological acid transport mechanisms. Suitable for succinic, fumarate, malic, and monocarboxylic acids.
Overview
This solution leverages mesoporous materials surface-modified with natural amino acids to extract organic acids produced during fermentation and metabolic cycles. By mimicking biological acid transport mechanisms, these materials target small acids such as succinic, fumarate, malic, and monocarboxylic acids, offering a novel approach to bioacid extraction from aqueous environments.
Technical specifications
The innovation utilizes mesoporous silica nanomaterials (MSN) with precisely tunable pore sizes and surface chemistry. By incorporating the entire suite of natural amino acids, these materials mimic the selective interaction seen in biological systems, such as those of serum albumin. The targeted acids are selected based on their interaction with the amino acids, informed by their pKa values and protein binding characteristics. Future iterations may include advanced functionalization, such as magnetic properties and antifouling coatings, to enhance performance in fermentation conditions.
Technology readiness level
Currently, this technology is at TRL 4, indicating that it has been proven in a lab setting. Ongoing research aims to further validate the selective capture of organic acids, with plans for iterative development over the next 12-18 months.
About Colorado School of Mines
Mines is a specialized public research university focused on engineering and applied science, known for a hands-on, industry-facing culture. Companies collaborate with faculty in co-located labs and at field-scale test sites across the Rocky Mountain region, enabling validation in real-world conditions. Its Golden location places partners near a U.S. Department of Energy national laboratory and within the Front Range innovation corridor, providing access to suppliers, startups, and major corporate R&D. Research is supported by competitive federal funding, notably from the National Science Foundation and the U.S. Department of Energy. A dedicated technology transfer office streamlines IP, licensing, sponsored research, and startup formation.
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