Valorization of macroalga Saccharina latissima as novel feedstock for fermentation-based succinic acid production in a biorefinery approach and economic aspects

• Published in: Algal research (Amsterdam) 2016-06, Vol.16, p.102-109
• Main Authors: Marinho, Gonçalo S., Alvarado-Morales, Merlin, Angelidaki, Irini
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Actinobacillus succinogenes; Bioenergy; Building block; Fermentation; Polyphenols; Saccharina latissima; Seaweed
• ISSN: 2211-9264; 2211-9264
• DOI: 10.1016/j.algal.2016.02.023

This study aimed to evaluate the potential of the macroalga Saccharina latissima as feedstock for fermentation-based succinic acid production in a biorefinery approach. Seasonal variations in the content of carbohydrates, and fermentable sugars, had a significant impact on the succinic acid yield and titer. A maximum succinic acid yield of 91.9% (gg−1 of total sugars) corresponding to 70.5% of the theoretical maximum yield was achieved when a blend of macroalgal biomass cultivated over two growing seasons and harvested in July and August was used as feedstock. A succinic acid titer of 36.8gL−1 with a maximum productivity of 3.9gL−1h−1 was achieved. The high content of total phenolic compounds (TPCs) in the macroalgal biomass (July–August: 5–1% DM), and high concentration of macro- (Ca, K, Na, Mg, P, N and Fe) and micronutrients in the solid residue recovered after enzymatic hydrolysis (PHSR), makes co-production of antioxidants (i.e. phenolics) and fertilizer very attractive. Finally, a simplified economic assessment showed that for the analyzed scenarios the main product's selling price (succinic acid) can be lowered significantly by coproducing added value products (fertilizers) and high added value-lower volume products (antioxidants). [Display omitted] •Harvest time and cultivation period had an impact in the content of fermentable sugars and TPCs.•Maximum succinic acid yield of 91.9% (gg−1 of total sugars) and titer of 36.8gL−1•Extraction of TPCs should be performed before hydrolysis to maximize product recovery and revenue.•Post-hydrolysis solid residue rich in macro- and micro minerals•Co-production (succinic acid, TPCs, fertilizers, etc.) increases gross profit.