Integrated bioprocess for high-efficiency production of succinic acid in an expanded-bed adsorption system

An integrated fermentation process for the production of succinic acid by Actinobacillus succinogenes at high titer, yield and productivity was developed by applying in situ product removal (ISPR) strategy. The ISPR process was conducted by a coupled expanded-bed adsorption (EBA) system. The novel approach during the product inhibitory period of microbial fermentation enhanced the cell growth of A. succinogenes from 48 h to 126 h, and significantly increased succinic acid production up to the final titer of 145.2 g l−1 with an average yield of 0.52 g g−1, and productivity of 1.3 g l−1 h−1. The maximum yield and productivity reached 0.76 g g−1 and 2.58 g l−1 h−1, respectively after the first ISPR operation cycle. ISPR process with EBA leads to the production of succinct acid via fermentation economically feasible.

► Expanded-bed adsorption was integrated with in the fermentation process viable for in situ extracellular product removal.
► The coupled fermentation–separation system could overcome product inhibition.
► The final titer of 145.2 g l−1 succinic acid was obtained after 126 h fermentation.