Fractionation of Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina) water soluble proteins by membrane diafiltration

Membrane diafiltration process was developed in order to fractionate the water soluble proteins of supernatant obtained after Spirulina bead milling disruption and centrifugation. The crude extract filtered with 50 kDa, 150 300 kDa or 0.2 µm membranes. Phycocyanin purified extracts were produced filtration on membrane allowed high recovery (more than 89%) A C into retentate permeate as well separation both molecules (depletion C-PC relatively A-PC; enrichment permeate). Blue colour permeates, poor chlorophyll, successfully produced. Concentrated solutions more 80% (dry weight basis) obtained. most severe fouling occurred leading low fluxes (65 L.h−1.m−2). fractionation by size possible for 50, diafiltrations.