Date – 2 October 2023
Microalgae are increasingly being hailed as a rich source of high-value biomolecules useful in various industries, from biofuels to pharmaceuticals [1]. However, the challenge lies in efficiently extracting these biomolecules. Hydrodynamic Cavitation and VORTA technology promise to redefine microalgae processing and help unlock their full potential.
Traditional methods for processing microalgae often involve high energy input and yield inefficiencies, emphasizing the need for novel technologies that can optimize this process from cultivation to end-product extraction.
Extraction of Biomolecules from Microalgae
Microalgae offer a broad spectrum of biomolecules such as lipids, which are crucial for biofuel applications, and various other bioactive molecules used in pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. Effective extraction techniques are central to the commercial viability of microalgae-based products. VORTA offers an efficient way to break down cell walls, thereby enhancing the release of intracellular contents. Combined with VORTA technology, the throughput of biomolecule extraction can be substantially increased, making the process more commercially viable.
VORTA uses the power of fluctuating pressure conditions to generate cavities or bubbles in liquid media. When these bubbles collapse, they release a high amount of energy capable of disrupting the robust cell walls of microalgae, thus making the extraction of valuable intracellular substances easier.
VORTA stands out for its effectiveness in breaking down the rigid cell walls of microalgae. This action allows for more straightforward and more efficient extraction of vital biomolecules such as lipids, proteins, and pigments. VORTA can be integrated seamlessly into various stages of microalgae processing, from cultivation and harvesting to pre-treatment.
VORTA Technology: A Step Ahead
VORTA technology offers unique advantages over traditional HC devices, especially in the realm of energy efficiency. Its vortex-based mechanisms enable higher throughput and are designed for scalability. VORTA devices can be easily adjusted to handle large volumes of biomass, thus making them ideal for industrial-scale operations.
Advantages of VORTA
- Precision: Allows for a controlled and predictable cavitation characteristic.
- Efficiency: higher energy efficiency compared to conventional HC devices.
- Scalability: The design of VORTA allows easy modification of the device scale, offering flexibility for processing larger volumes without sacrificing efficiency.
- No clogging: One unique advantage of VORTA is its ability to handle solid biomass without clogging, making it exceptionally versatile in a range of applications.
Conclusion
VORTA technology is poised to transform the way we approach microalgae biorefineries. These innovative technologies hold the promise of making microalgae processing more efficient, scalable, and environmentally responsible. Researchers and industries alike can look forward to a new era of sustainable biomolecule extraction from microalgae, thanks to these advancements.
References
[1] Mittal, Rochak, and Vivek Ranade. 2023. ‘Bioactives from Microalgae: A Review on Process Intensification Using Hydrodynamic Cavitation’. Journal of Applied Phycology 35 (3): 1129–61. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10811-023-02945-w.
