FTIR Spectrometry for Enzymatic Hydrolysis Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The enzymatic hydrolysis process in biomass-based chemical production is challenging due to uncertainties in achieving target glucose levels, as existing methods struggle to provide real-time accurate knowledge of process status, especially in harsh industrial environments, making it difficult to react to deviations effectively.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) measurements on process fluids to control process parameters such as enzyme dosing and residence time, allowing for real-time monitoring and optimization of cellulose and hemicellulose conversion into monomeric carbohydrates and lignin content, thereby enhancing process efficiency and reducing contamination risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If real-time measurement is implemented to monitor process status, then response speed to deviations improves, but measurement precision deteriorates due to harsh industrial environment conditions
Solution Approach 1:
A sampling system acts as an intermediary between the harsh process environment and the measurement instrument. Samples are extracted from the process stream, conveyed through a sample line to a measurement cell, and measured in a controlled environment. This mediator protects the FTIR instrument from harsh conditions while enabling real-time monitoring of process parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical/chemical measurement methods with optical measurement (FTIR spectrometry). Instead of using physical probes or chemical indicators that would degrade in harsh environments, the system uses infrared light absorption to measure carbohydrate concentrations, providing both real-time response and high precision.
2Speed
If FTIR measurement capability is built directly into the reactor, then real-time monitoring is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement function is extracted from the reactor itself and placed in a separate, dedicated measurement cell. The sampling system extracts process fluid from the reactor, conveys it to the measurement cell, and returns it to the process stream. This separation simplifies the reactor design while maintaining real-time monitoring capability.
Solution Approach 2:
A sample conveyance system acts as an intermediary, transferring process fluid between the reactor and measurement cell without requiring the reactor to contain built-in measurement equipment. This mediator enables real-time measurement while keeping the reactor structure simple and easy to maintain.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sampling points are monitored simultaneously, then process control coverage improves, but device complexity increases due to multiple measurement apparatuses
Solution Approach 1:
A single FTIR measurement system is designed to handle multiple sampling points sequentially. The measurement cell serves multiple functions by measuring different process streams at different times. This universal approach enables comprehensive process monitoring while avoiding the need for multiple separate measurement apparatuses.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses periodic sampling and measurement cycles to monitor multiple process points. Samples from different locations are taken at different times and measured sequentially in a repeating cycle, providing continuous coverage of all critical points without requiring simultaneous measurement capabilities.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables real-time monitoring and control of the enzymatic hydrolysis process, optimizing enzyme usage, reducing contamination, and improving glucose yield consistency by accurately tracking carbohydrate and lignin content, leading to more efficient and controlled biomass conversion.
Implementation Method 1
performing at least one Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) measurement on at least one process fluid of said manufacturing process, wherein said results indicate the content of one or more carbohydrates in the respective process fluid
Implementation Method 2
enzymatic hydrolysis, from which the sugars (carbohydrates) may be fed further to other processes
Implementation Method 3
controlling the value of at least one process parameter based on the results obtained from said at least one FTIR measurement in order to affect the conversion of cellulose and hemicellulose into monomeric carbohydrates in said enzymatic hydrolysis
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided for controlling enzymatic hydrolysis in a manufacturing process of chemical bioproducts. The method comprises performing at least one FTIR measurement on at least one process fluid, and controlling the value of at least one process parameter based on the results obtained. Said results indicate the content of one or more carbohydrates in the respective process fluid. Said controlling of the value of the process parameter is performed in order to affect at least one of: the conversion of cellulose and hemicellulose into monomeric carbohydrates in said enzymatic hydrolysis, the relative content of soluble lignin in relation to monomeric carbohydrates in said enzymatic hydrolysis.