Development of a solid-phase extraction method for the separation of algal lipid classes
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Authors
Claudio Pachecano, Elizabeth
Date
Type
thesis
Language
eng
Keyword
biodiesel , algae , lipids , microalgae , Scenedesmus sp. , solid-phase extraction , triglycerides , phospholipids , glycolipids , fatty acids , lipid classification , algal lipid classification , useful lipids for biodiesel production
Alternative Title
Abstract
Algal oils have been extensively used as feedstocks for the production of biodiesel. These can be obtained using one of several extraction techniques, such as Soxhlet extraction. A critical issue is the presence of compounds in the crude extract that lead to lower yields and low-quality biodiesel produced, i.e. phospholipids (PLs). Solid-phase extraction (SPE) is commonly used for the analytical and sample preparation of compounds due to its rapidity, low cost and simplicity; including lipid analysis. The literature presents validated SPE methods for the fractionation of lipids in complex mixtures (i. e. human sources). However, SPE methods applied to algal lipid classification have yet to be fully developed and validated in the literature.
The objective of this project is thus to provide the user with a rapid, efficient and reliable standardized analytical method for the determination of useful lipids, triglycerides (TGs) and fatty acids (FAs) from algal biomass to produce biodiesel.
Firstly, critical factors affecting the performance of the SPE procedure using NH2-Si were identified and evaluated, namely active phase, loading mass, precondition step and elutions. The results indicated that there is a cross-contamination between lipid classes, especially PLs, which were prone to be prematurely eluted when high quantities are present in the algal biomass (>15 mg). SPE conditions (active phase, loading mass, precondition step and elutions) were modified and tested in order to decrease the cross-contamination. The modified SPE method solved the PL elution issue. However, the elution of other type of lipids of interest was negatively affected (i. e. underestimation of fatty acids).
Secondly, current SPE procedures using -Si and NH2-Si to quantify algal lipids were tested and standardized, and the results were then compared to the composition of standard mixtures of lipids used to perform the SPEs.
An accurate reference to determine the total useful lipid content for biofuel production and other applications, using SPE procedures, is recommended in this thesis. SPEs using -Si and NH2-Si columns can be performed consecutively to quantify, firstly, neutral lipids (TGs, and FAs), GLs and PLs; and secondly, TGs and FAs; respectively.
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ProQuest PhD and Master's Theses International Dissemination Agreement
Intellectual Property Guidelines at Queen's University
Copying and Preserving Your Thesis
This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.