This paper describes some of our recent research in extraction and fractionation of lipid compounds from natural products, and our experience in developing a pilot scale extraction plant for demonstration of these technologies to potential end users. The processes include a method for extraction of polar lipids, and methods for direct processing of aqueous feed streams to produce a lipid extract and a lipid-depleted protein residue, using the food suitable and environmentally benign solvent dimethyl ether.

A portable pilot scale plant was developed to encourage uptake of these processes by industry and private investors, and has been very successful. The rationale for development of the plant was to enable potential end users to evaluate the technology without needing to invest in their own capital, to enable them to produce approved product samples on-site in their own registered facilities, to enable pilot studies and full scale costings to be carried out, and to showcase the technology and build familiarity and experience with the process through hands on use. Highlights and lowlights of the development will be described, including issues relating to design of a versatile portable plant, and design for use with flammable solvents.