Our Technology
Electrodialysis (ED) is a separation technique used industrially for pollution control, desalination, resource recovery and chemical processes. It involves the migration of ions through ion-exchange membranes in an applied electric field. The flux of an ion through the membrane is dependent upon its charge, the bulk concentration of the ion and its mass transport to the membrane surface. In this way species can be removed from reaction mixtures and waste streams thereby reducing the need for costly disposal and purification.
Our Markets
- Biochemical reactions – the use of ED to control the pH of a fermentation reaction
- Downstream Processing – the separation of high value charged species from chemical and biochemical reaction mixtures
- Production of organic acids such as lactic, succinic, acetic and gluconic acids, with increased yields compared to conventional processes
- Dairy and cheese industry – removal of salt from whey
- Wine production – control of acidity of wines and to adjust alcohol content
- Sugar and starch industries – purification (demineralisation) of sugars
Our Goal
We offer process development, process equipment and process control. We use a combination of ED, chemical engineering and equipment design to deliver a single source solution. We are independent from membrane suppliers and select the best membranes for the application. We offer mediated ED (MED) for specialist separations. MED includes suitable functionalised media in the ED spacer to enhance separation of species with the same charge.
Our Advantage
Overcoming difficult separations & purifications
ED can be used for separation and purification tasks that are difficult to achieve by conventional means, and can be used either in situ or in downstream processing.
Higher yields
Increased yields in fermentations and enzyme reactions.
Reduced waste streams
Conversion of salts to free acid and base, reducing waste streams and resulting in more efficient recovery of product.
Volume efficiency
Improved volume efficiency by decreasing product inhibition.
Check out our case study on using electrodialysis for the recovery of succinic acid from fermentations!
Case Study – ELSA