Energy input assessment for nanosecond pulsed electric field processing and its application in a case study with Chlorella vulgaris. (June 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Buchmann, Leandro; Böcker, Lukas; Frey, Wolfgang; Haberkorn, Iris; Nyffeler, Markus; Mathys, Alexander
• Is Part Of: Innovative food science & emerging technologies. Volume 47(2018)
• Page Start: 445
• Page End: 453
• Publication Date: 2018-06
• Subjects: Food -- Biotechnology -- Periodicals; Food industry and trade -- Technological innovations -- Periodicals; Aliments -- Biotechnologie -- Périodiques; Food -- Biotechnology; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 664.005
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ifset.2018.04.013
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1466-8564

Abstract

Abstract: Arising challenges in the bio-based industry caused by population growth, seek sustainable solutions to increase productivity with the given resources. Nanosecond pulsed electric field (nsPEF) processes provide a promising tool to tackle these challenges. Among the possible applications of nsPEF are the following: sub-lethal stress induction, targeted release of intracellular valuables and induced cell apoptosis. However, without accurate pulse measurement and control, nsPEF processes are not readily applicable within the bio-based industry. The present research undertook an in-depth analysis of the process parameters and their influences on pulse measurements to address this shortcoming. These findings regarding the system enabled calculation of an accurate energy input from pulse measurement based on a novel theoretical relationship. The acquired comprehensive understanding of the system dependency enabled applications of nsPEF in the bio-based industry. A case study with Chlorella vulgaris allowed microbial contamination control applying nsPEF while retaining the viability of microalgae cells. Industrial relevance: Pulsed electric field (PEF) technologies are rapidly developing because of their promising applications, continuous operability, short processing times and low energy requirements. Nanosecond PEF (nsPEF) as emerging field can be applied for sub-lethal stress induction, targeted release of intracellular valuables and induced cell apoptosis. However, process characterization and control is limited so far. The acquired comprehensive understanding of the system dependency in this research enables improved applications of nsPEF in the bio-based industry. Highlights: Multiphysics simulation based reactor optimization Novel theoretical relationship to assess treatment chamber resistance Significantly improved nanosecond pulse measurement and control (p < 0.01) Case study of nsPEF treatments for bio-based applications Microbial contamination control with retained Chlorella vulgaris viability