Separation of Protocatechuic Acid: Emphasizing on Intensifying Approaches

Abstract

Many recent studies focus on polyphenols, which are categorized into stilbenes, lignans, flavonoids and phenolic acids which are known to possess numerous biological actions. Protocatechuic acid, 3, 4 Dihydroxy, benzoic acid, and a polyphenol found abundantly in more than 500 plant species, known for its pharmacological effects in invivo and invitro studies as well as for its applications in polymer and plastic industries. The requirement for the development of a profitable and competitive method for the separation of carboxylic acids from the fermenter and aqueous streams is met by the process intensification technique- reactive extraction. Further, in Situ Product Recovery (ISPR) that is, integration of fermentation and separation unit is a cost-effective approach for the production of carboxylic acids. The reactive separation of protocatechuic acid using natural and conventional diluents in aminic and phosphorous extractants has been explored. The results of the study will be worthwhile for intensifying the recovery of Protocatechuic from the aqueous waste stream and fermentation broth and for the application of the process intensification at a marketable level, a systematic fundamental understanding at laboratory scale is vital by use of batch experiments.