Silicone-based membrane technology for organic acid separation
Innovative silicone-based membranes facilitate rapid, solvent-free transport of organic acids from bioreactor broths, enhancing purification and concentration processes. Ideal for industries seeking efficient acid separation.
Overview
This solution leverages silicone-based membranes to advance the separation and purification of bio-derived organic acids from bioreactor broths. By employing a solvent-free process, these membranes enable the rapid transport of medium-chain fatty acids through a polydimethylsiloxane layer. This technology promises efficient separation of hydrophobic and hydrophilic acids, offering a significant improvement over traditional liquid-liquid extraction methods.
Technical specifications
- Silicone-based membranes: Utilize polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) for effective hydrophobic acid transport.
- Hydrophobic extractants: Dissolved in the membrane to aid in the diffusion of hydrophilic acids and diacids.
- Purification process: Includes bipolar membrane electrodialysis, electrodialysis, and selective precipitation for acid recovery and NaOH regeneration.
- Testing and validation: Employs model PDMS films and diffusion cells for assessing acid transport, with further studies on electrodialysis and precipitation techniques.
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at TRL 4, indicating that it has been validated in the lab environment. Further validation and development are planned to enhance its readiness for commercial applications.
About University of Toronto
The University of Toronto is a comprehensive public research university with three campuses in the Toronto region and a globally scaled research enterprise. Its downtown footprint is embedded within a major academic health network and an adjacent innovation district, enabling co-located labs, clinical trials, and rapid testing with end users. Companies connect through co-op and long-duration internships, sponsored research, and access to shared core facilities and prototyping resources. Research is supported by Canada’s Tri‑Agency (NSERC, CIHR, SSHRC) and the Canada Foundation for Innovation, alongside provincial programs and industry partnerships. A dedicated technology transfer office provides IP management, licensing, and startup support through a coordinated entrepreneurship network.
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