Fractionation of Organic Acids via Electrodialysis: Extraction Processes and Electrochemical Characterization of Ion-Exchange Membranes

 Dear Colleagues,

The production of organic acids has received significant attention in recent years due to their broad applicability and, in particular, their inherent biodegradability. Current research efforts have predominantly focused on their use in the synthesis of bioplastics, biodegradable polyester resins, medical sutures, pharmaceuticals, and food and beverage formulations, as well as in the textile and paper industries. Organic acids can be synthesized via chemical routes or through carbohydrate fermentation, the latter of which has emerged as the preferred approach due to its lower environmental impact.

One of the major challenges in the production of organic acids is the efficient separation of the target compounds from side products generated in concurrent reactions. Of the available separation technologies, membrane-based processes—especially electrodialysis—have shown promise, as they enable the recovery of organic acids without the need for chemical additives. Nonetheless, the selective fractionation of organic acids via electrodialysis remains a considerable challenge, primarily due to the similarity in the ionic size and charge of these species, which facilitates their co-transport through ion-exchange membranes.

To address this issue, ongoing research has focused on the development of advanced ion-exchange membranes and the optimization of process parameters to enhance separation performance. In particular, the electrochemical characterization of novel membranes is essential to determine their transport properties and assess their potential for the selective separation of structurally similar organic acids.

In this context, Prof. Valentín Pérez Herranz and Dr. Kayo Santana Barros invite the submission of original research articles, case studies, reviews, and short communications addressing the selective separation of organic acids via electrodialysis. This Special Issue aims to serve as a scientific platform for disseminating recent advances in membrane-based fractionation processes and the valorization of organic acids from diverse feedstocks.

Prof. Dr. Valentín Pérez-Herranz
Dr. Kayo Barros
Guest Editors

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