MASS-TRANSFER OF LYSOZYME ACROSS A FLAT SURFACE WITH REVERSE MICELLES

Abstract

Reverse micelles are an effective way to separate and purify proteins by solvent extraction. Optimization of the process requires knowledge of the interfacial mass-transfer rates. In this study, individual mass-transfer coefficients were determined in a cylindrical stirred diffusion cell for the transfer of lysozyme between aqueous 0.1 M KCl solutions containing sucrose or starch, and i-octane containing AOT surfactant. Forward extraction rates were correlated well by the equation, Sh ₁=0.558 Re ₁ ^0.554 Sc ₁ ^0.205. Of particular novelty was the measurement of extraction kinetics in the presence of varying concentrations of sucrose and starch. Individual mass-transfer coefficients increased with sucrose concentration, by contrast, the converse was observed for starch. The influence of sucrose and kinetics of the extraction process are discussed.

Keywords:

• Mass-transfer
• Surfactant
• AOT
• Reverse micelles
• Lysozyme

Acknowledgments