Statistical Design, a Powerful Tool for Optimizing Biosurfactant Production: A Review

Abstract

Biosurfactants (Bs) have been studied for decades and applied in different industrial sectors because of their competitive biochemical characteristics, and the fact that they are environmentally friendly. Current scientific investigations mainly involve the search for novel Bs producing organisms with attractive characteristics. Bs are expected to replace synthetic surfactants in the near future, but low production yields and inefficient downstream processes have prevented their widespread use. Although there are numerous reports on Bs optimization, to date there has been no critical compilation or revision of the statistical designs and strategies employed for improved production. The purpose of this mini review is to briefly discuss the factors that affect Bs production and the importance of statistical design as an essential tool for increasing production.