Novel electromagnetic separation technology for the production of pea protein concentrate

Use of plant protein is of growing interest to address consumer demands and sustainability of future food supply. In this study, Lorentz force-assisted charge carrier separation enhancement strategy was employed to separate pea protein (Pisum sativum L.). The magnetic field is generated by parallel magnets, 20 cm long, 10 cm wide and 10 cm apart, and perpendicular to the electric field formed between parallel electrodes. The charged particles would cut the magnetic induction lines during the movement and were subjected to a Lorentz force towards the negative electrode, which improves the highest purity and yield of the protein concentrate by 3.6% (db) and 1.8% respectively, over exclusively triboelectric separation. After the ultrafine milling, air pre-classification and optimized electromagnetic separation, the purity of the resulting pea protein concentrate was increased from 27.8 ± 0.6% to 72.1 ± 0.8% (db) with a yield of 9.2 ± 1.2%. This study pointed out the value of magnetic field used as an auxiliary means in the electrostatic separation. [Display omitted] •Setting the collection bin on the negative plate can result in high-purity protein.•Distance between the electrodes can regulate the separation purity and yield.•Lorentz force experienced by charged particles is changing constantly.•Magnetic field increased protein content by 3.6% over exclusively electric field.