Assessment of Neutralizing Agent Recycling in the Butyric Acid Fermentation Process

• Grant number: 25/02699-9
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: May 01, 2025
• End date: April 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Chemical Engineering - Chemical Process Industries
• Principal Investigator: Jean Felipe Leal Silva
• Grantee: Moisés de Araújo Lima Neto
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Engenharia Química (FEQ). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Butyric acid is a chemical of great industrial interest, used in the production of solvents, polymers, and fragrances. However, its biotechnological production faces challenges such as low yields and high recovery costs. Traditional neutralization during the fermentation process generates gypsum as a byproduct, while more sustainable alternatives can contribute to eliminating this waste and improving the fermentation process. This project aims to investigate the fermentation of Clostridium tyrobutyricum for butyric acid production from sugarcane juice, with a focus on the use and recycling of calcium carbonate (CaCO¿) as a neutralizing agent. The study will assess the technical feasibility of CaCO¿ reuse and its impact on fermentation performance. Batch fermentations will be conducted under different experimental conditions, analyzing cell growth, productivity, and yield. Analyses will include spectrophotometry for microbial monitoring and chromatography for the quantification of substrates and products. The results will allow for evaluating process circularity and suggesting improvements to optimize butyric acid recovery. The project will also contribute to ongoing research on the development of sustainable biotechnological routes for organic acid production, aiming to reduce environmental impacts and industrial costs. (AU)