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The Effect of Fermentation Broth Components on Performance of High Silica ZSM-5/Silicone Rubber Mixed Matrix Membranes
Citation:
VANE, L. M. AND V. V. NAMBOODIRI. The Effect of Fermentation Broth Components on Performance of High Silica ZSM-5/Silicone Rubber Mixed Matrix Membranes. Presented at AIChE Annual Meeting, Philadelphia, PA, November 16 - 21, 2008.
Impact/Purpose:
To inform the public
Description:
Fermentative organisms produce a range of compounds in addition to the desired product. For example, in addition to ethanol, standard yeast produces longer straight-chained and branched alcohols and organic acids. Additionally, biomass pretreatment process, particularly acid-based treatments, can introduce organic acids into the sugar feed stream to the fermentor. Carboxylic acids, such as acetic acid and succinic acid, are commonly encountered in the conversion of biomass to ethanol and other biofuels. Pervaporation using mixed matrix membranes has proven to be a selective method of removing alcohols from fermentation broths. Such membranes are prepared by dispersing ethanol-selective zeolite particles into a polymer matrix. The carboxylic acids and longer chain alcohols present in the broths, however, compete with ethanol for adsorption sites within the zeolite channels and this affects the permeability and selectivity of the mixed matrix membrane.
