Chemically assisted rapid algae harvesting from dilute phase
US10487304B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 3, 2017 |
| Grant date | Nov 26, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 3, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC12N1/06
- WIPO fieldBiotechnology
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
The present disclosure generally pertains to methods for the harvesting of biomass, in particular algae, from dilute aqueous suspension. In one embodiment, the method comprises the steps of: adjusting the pH of the dilute aqueous suspension to cause disruption of the algal cell walls and exposure of the hydrophobic tails of the algal lipid bilayer; adding at least one organic solvent to the dilute aqueous suspension; and mixing the dilute aqueous suspension. The method may also include the steps of: waiting for formation of an organic layer from the dilute aqueous suspension; and recovering the organic layer. The organic layer rises to the top of the dilute aqueous suspension, allowing for mechanical separation or decanting of the organic layer.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.