Innovative and Green Extraction Technologies for Recovery of Biomolecules

Dear Colleagues,

The significant advances in white biotechnologies, through the use of enzymes and/or microorganisms, make it possible to obtain innovative bioproducts with high added value which have been extensively studied for potential industrial applications. Moreover, agro-industrial byproducts and residues are increasingly being regarded as a raw material for the production of novel biocompounds whose valorization is considered as a driving force in the implementation of “zero waste policies”. However, an obstacle for producing biomolecules is the economic and environmental cost associated with their conventional extraction and purification processes. Conventional extraction techniques are time consuming, require a large volume of solvents, generate hazardous residues, use high temperatures, and are highly energy demanding, which can contribute to the degradation of target biomolecules. Therefore, the implementation of green extraction technologies, such as ionic liquid solvents, green solvents, supercritical fluid extraction, microwave-assisted extraction, and pressured liquid extraction has been growing. These new technologies increase the extraction yield and reduce the required processing time and resources. Moreover, they are safe and ecofriendly.

Owing to the diversity and complexity of biomolecules and the differences in their features, the scope of this Special Issue focuses on the evaluation of green extraction techniques for the recovery of biomolecules of interest contained in complex matrixes. In particular, the scope is based on though not limited to studies at pilot scales prior to industrial exploitations, the combination of green techniques to overcome some shortcomings, and research related to environmental impact. Both original papers and reviews are welcome.

Dr. Loubna Firdaous
Prof. Dr. Pascal Dhulster
Guest Editors

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