Process optimization and scale up for lipid extraction from fermentation broths
A solution for optimizing and scaling up lipid extraction from fermentation broths using advanced pilot-scale technologies to improve efficiency and yield. The approach combines sample analysis, process design, pilot trials, and industrial scale-up planning, supporting applications such as biofuels, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Technologies include membrane filtration, solvent extraction, vacuum distillation, centrifuges, homogenization, de-gumming, and polishing. Current status is TRL 5 with pilot-scale testing.
Overview
A project to optimize and scale up the process of lipid extraction from fermentation broths. The goal is to develop an efficient and scalable extraction approach that can be adapted to industrial applications, including biofuels, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. The work focuses on creating an optimized process that can meet varying quality and yield requirements.
Technical specifications
The solution uses a suite of pilot-scale (or larger) technologies, including:
- Membrane filtration
- Solvent extraction systems
- Vacuum distillation
- Centrifuges
- Homogenization
- De-gumming
- Polishing
The process includes:
- Sample Analysis: Determine the composition of the fermentation broth to tailor the extraction process.
- Process Design: Develop an extraction and purification process based on broth composition and target product requirements.
- Pilot Trials: Run trials using pilot-scale equipment to verify process efficacy.
- Industrial Scale-Up: Produce detailed designs and plans to transition from pilot to industrial scale.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 5, with pilot-scale testing completed. The next stages involve scaling up to industrial application, with an anticipated completion timeline of 2–3 years.
About Lambton College
Lambton College is a career‑focused public college in Sarnia, Ontario, recognized for hands‑on, industry‑aligned applied research. Companies engage through three NSERC‑funded Technology Access Centres—the Lambton Manufacturing Innovation Centre, the Bio‑Industrial Process Research Centre, and the Digital Technology Lab—which provide contract R&D, prototyping, testing, and process optimization. Facilities include a BSL‑2 lab, a Natural Health Products lab, and the Canadian Extrusion Research Laboratory, with teams based on campus and at the adjacent Western Sarnia‑Lambton Research Park, enabling rapid validation and scale‑up alongside a major regional energy and chemical manufacturing cluster. Applied research is supported by funding from NSERC, Mitacs, the Ontario Centre of Innovation, the Canada Foundation for Innovation, the Ontario Research Fund, and FedDev Ontario programs. A dedicated commercialization function offers IP strategy and licensing support, augmented by resources from Intellectual Property Ontario.
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