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Software based-process simulation and feasibility assessment of a black soldier fly larvae fatty acid extraction and fractionation
Thesis Abstract:
Black soldier fly had recently gotten the spotlight as a great newcomer in animal feedstock and a source of protein. The larvae of this insect contain an abundance of fatty acids similar to that of palm oil and proteins, lacking in ash and fibres, which may cause a large number of wastages with plant-based material. The research was conducted using Superpro™ Simulation software. The process starts with cold water washing. Then the protein from the larvae would be hydrolysed and separated from the carcass. Later, the feed will have its' size mechanically reduced using a grinder. Filtration follows suit, done twice using two different membrane-based units to separate the fly's ashes and cellulose components. Afterwards, water contents and proteins were separated using centrifugation, leaving raw oils to be distilled and some wet protein meal waiting to be dried. The distillations were done three times, separating lauric acid as a distillate and then followed by a myristic acid-palmitic acid separation. Finally, stearic acid would be at the final bottom-feed. The products are all cooled down with heat exchangers to produce a liquid form. The factory will be assessed for its' economic feasibility and cash flow, including labour and energy costs. The observation of the process was repeated three times, using 5-day larvae as control and two different variable feeds.