Direct electrodialysis of fermentation broth with periodic removal of fouling layers

Abstract

In the present investigation the fermentation broth is fed directly into the electrodialysis module without prefiltration. Under these conditions a biofouling layer of living and dead parts of the fermentation broth builds up primarily on the anion exchange membranes. The mainly negatively charged fouling producers, for example protein ions, are transported by the electric field to the anion exchange membranes.