Scalable low-energy downstream processing for fermentation-derived lipids
A modular platform for efficient lipid recovery from fermentation processes, integrating cell disruption, clarification, and low-energy concentration techniques. This solution enhances yield and reduces energy and solvent use, facilitating industrial scaling.
Overview
This innovative platform offers a scalable and energy-efficient solution for downstream processing of fermentation-derived lipids. By addressing common challenges such as viscous broths and intracellular lipid accumulation, the platform significantly improves lipid recovery while minimizing energy and solvent consumption. Designed to work seamlessly with existing industrial systems, it incorporates controlled mechanical or enzymatic cell disruption, membrane-assisted clarification, and low-energy phase separation and concentration. This approach ensures higher yields and lower operational costs, making it ideal for large-scale deployment in biorefineries.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Modular Design: The platform can be adapted to various scales and integrates well with existing industrial processes.
- Energy-Efficient Processes: Utilizes low-energy cell disruption and dehydration methods tailored to lipid-rich streams.
- Reduced Solvent Usage: Employs membrane-based clarification that minimizes solvent requirements.
- Improved Lipid Recovery: Enhances yield through efficient phase separation techniques.
- Scalability: Supports rapid scale-up validated by pilot studies and biorefinery infrastructure.
Technology readiness level
Currently at Technology Readiness Level 4, this platform has undergone laboratory validation with plans for pilot-scale testing at the Laboratory for Biorefinery Research in Velenje, Slovenia. Future phases will focus on process optimization, scale-up, and preparation for industrial deployment.
About National Institute of Chemistry (Kemijski inštitut)
Slovenia’s National Institute of Chemistry (Kemijski inštitut) is a leading public research institute based in Ljubljana, bringing together multidisciplinary teams, advanced infrastructure, and close ties with universities to address industry‑relevant challenges. Industry partners engage through contract research, analytical services, collaborative projects, and access to shared facilities such as high‑field NMR, mass spectrometry, and advanced microscopy. Its location near established pharmaceutical and specialty‑chemical manufacturers in Slovenia and Central Europe supports agile partnering, talent pipelines, and rapid technology validation. Research is supported by competitive European Commission programs and national research funding. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, and spinout support, offering clear pathways from discovery to deployment.
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