First Fractionation Results Demonstrate Scalability of REVALOR Approach

Researchers at the Centre de Recerca en Bioeconomia Circular (CRBC) in Barcelona have published preliminary data from the first round of laboratory-scale fractionation trials, a key milestone under Work Package 2 (Biorefinery Process Development).

Olive Pomace as a Model Substrate

Olive pomace — the solid residue remaining after olive oil extraction — was selected as the primary model substrate for Year 1 trials due to its high availability across Mediterranean partner regions and its rich composition of proteins, polyphenols, and dietary fibre. Spain alone generates approximately 4.5 million tonnes of olive pomace annually, a large proportion of which is currently combusted for energy at low economic value.

Enzymatic Fractionation Protocol

The REVALOR team developed a two-stage enzymatic fractionation process that first hydrolyses the lignocellulosic matrix to release phenolic compounds, then applies a protease cocktail to extract a protein-rich fraction suitable for food-grade applications.

Key results from 50-litre pilot runs at CRBC:

• Protein yield: 68% (project benchmark: ≥60%)
• Phenolic compound recovery: 74% (benchmark: ≥65%)
• Solvent use: Zero organic solvents (aqueous-only process)
• Energy intensity: 1.8 MJ/kg dry weight (below the 2.5 MJ/kg target)

“These results are genuinely encouraging,” said Dr. Joan Ferrer, WP2 Leader. “We are ahead of our Year 1 benchmarks on every indicator, and the aqueous-only process is a significant advantage from a regulatory and sustainability perspective.”

Next Steps

The fractionation protocol will be adapted for two additional substrates — tomato pomace and citrus peel — beginning in Q4 2025. Results will feed directly into the Life Cycle Assessment carried out under WP4.