Comparative analysis of process intensification technologies (PIT) for improved cell disruption and lipid recovery in Aurantiochytrium sp. SW1 microalgae

Abstract

SummaryThis study explores enhancing lipid recovery from the lipid‐rich marine microalgae Aurantiochytrium sp. SW1, known for its robust cell wall posing challenges, which necessitates energy‐intensive cell‐disruption for efficient intracellular lipid extraction. Despite advancements in other microalgae, there is lack of reports on efficient cell disruption for Aurantiochytrium sp. SW1 which is vital to reduce the energy costs and minimising the downstream process while maximising lipid yields. Three process intensification technologies (PIT) – microwave treatment, autoclave treatment and ultrasonication were employed on wet Aurantiochytrium sp. SW1 cells to improve the lipid extraction efficiency. Assessing the disruption effectiveness via lipid content, suspension turbidity and particle size distribution, alongside scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for cellular morphology changes post‐PIT treatments, this study indicates all three methods reduced particle size with prolonged treatment time, implying successful cell wall disruption and intracellular component release. Ultrasonication, especially at 50 W power for 10 min, exhibited the highest efficacy, yielding lipid content of 67.76 ± 0.03%. Microscopic analysis unveiled ultrasonication‐induced cell shrinkage and increased membrane permeability, supporting its effectiveness in enhancing solvent penetration for improved lipid recovery. This research underscores PIT techniques' potential as sustainable, energy‐efficient strategies for lipid extraction from Aurantiochytrium sp. SW1 microalgae.