Valine Crystallization via pH Control for Low-Energy Granulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for producing valine granules require high energy consumption due to the need to evaporate large amounts of moisture, which is not suitable for valine's low solubility, leading to inefficient production.
Innovation Solution
A method involving pH adjustment and controlled concentration of fermentation broth to separate valine crystals with moisture, followed by mixing with a seed to form mixed granules, reducing moisture content and energy requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the moisture content of fermentation broth is reduced to prevent crystal formation, then granulation can be achieved by fluidized bed granulation, but a large amount of moisture must be evaporated resulting in large energy consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by adding seed crystals to the fermentation broth before the drying process. This causes valine crystals to form early during concentration, transforming the broth into a slurry with solid particles that can be directly granulated without extensive preliminary drying. The seed crystals initiate crystallization at higher moisture contents, eliminating the need to evaporate large amounts of moisture before granulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical-chemical parameters of the fermentation broth by controlling pH (adjusting to 2.0-6.0) and concentration rate during the crystallization process. These parameter changes optimize crystal formation and slurry properties, enabling the system to achieve both crystal formation and granulation capability simultaneously, thereby reducing the energy required for moisture evaporation.
2Manufacturing precision
If valine crystals are formed at low solid content (12-15%), then crystal separation becomes feasible, but large amount of moisture must be evaporated during drying process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by adding seed crystals before concentration, which initiates valine crystallization at lower solid content levels (12-15%). This allows crystals to form and be separated while the broth still contains significant moisture, avoiding the need to concentrate to high solid content and then dry extensively. The crystallization occurs during the concentration process itself rather than after.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses seed crystals as an intermediary to facilitate the crystallization of valine from the fermentation broth. These seed crystals provide nucleation sites that enable crystal formation at lower concentrations, making it possible to separate crystals while maintaining higher moisture content in the system, thereby reducing subsequent drying energy requirements.
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
Produces valine granules with low moisture content, requiring less energy for drying, thus enhancing production efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a large amount of moisture must be evaporated during the drying process
Implementation Method 2
crystals are produced even when the solid content is as low as in a range of about 12 to 15%
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method for producing valine crystals and/or valine granules by using pH adjustment.