Technische Universitaet Dortmund

Technische Universitat Dortmund

Christoph Brandenbusch

Bruno Buehler

Gabriele Sadowski

Andreas Schmid

Bruno Bühler

Jonathan A Collins

Michael Goernert

A method processes a stable emulsion having components from whole-cell biotransformations such as cells, soluble cell components, organic solvents and/or water. In this connection, the emulsion, which is stable after the biotransformation, is mixed with further parts of organic phase, and subsequently the mixture is continuously stirred until a catastrophic phase inversion of the emulsion takes place while mixing; subsequently, this phase-inverted mixture is transferred to a settling container, where the phases of the emulsion separate from one another and can be separated from one another.

Method for processing of stable emulsions from whole-cell biotransformations by means of phase inversion

The method separates emulsions derived from whole-cell biotransformations, including stable emulsions derived from typical biocatalytic two-phase processes that result with such a biotransformation. A supercritical extraction to obtain the valuable product can follow directly, because of the use of compressed or supercritical gas as the separation agent. It is unimportant whether the valuable product is present in the aqueous or the organic phase. Recycling of the organic phase is possible, since the surfactant cell components decisively responsible for the formation of the stable emulsion can be separated off via sedimentation, because of the treatment. The achieved separation remains in existence even after the gas has gassed out, so that aside from extraction, other methods for product isolation can also follow, if necessary.

Method for processing coalescence-inhibited emulsions from whole-cell biotransformations with compressed or supercritical gases

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Essen, Germany

Christoph Brandenbusch