Efficient Separation and Purification of Oligosaccharides: A Systematic Review on Principles and Applications of Membrane Separation Technology

ABSTRACT Oligosaccharides are increasingly valued in research and industry due to their structural diversity and health benefits. However, their efficient separation and purification pose significant challenges, primarily due to structural complexity and the limitations of traditional chromatographic methods. Membrane separation technology has emerged as a promising green and efficient alternative. By leveraging the selective permeability of membrane materials, this technology facilitates the separation, purification, and concentration of oligosaccharides with advantages such as lower energy consumption, operational simplicity, and high efficiency with oligosaccharide recovery often exceeding 70% and product purities frequently above 60% in integrated membrane processes. This systematic review discusses the application of membrane separation technology in oligosaccharide processing, focusing on four key techniques: microfiltration (MF), ultrafiltration (UF), nanofiltration (NF), and reverse osmosis (RO). It further delves into process optimization strategies, including membrane material selection, adjustment of operating parameters, and integrated system designs to enhance separation efficiency and product purity. Furthermore, it explores the future trends in addressing current challenges. By consolidating recent advancements and practical applications, this work provides valuable insights for researchers and industry practitioners, promoting the adoption of membrane separation technology for efficient and scalable oligosaccharide production.