Process Improvement Project for Juice Clarification in the Sugar and Ethanol Industry

Abstract

The project focuses on reducing the ash percentage in the final product, enhancing the quality of crystal sugar. To achieve this, the study analyzes the replacement of static screen meshes with finer mesh geometry, aiming for more efficient retention of impurities, including organic and inorganic acids, as well as colloidal materials such as pectins and waxes. Implemented during the 2023/2024 off-season in a sugar mill located in the Triângulo Mineiro region, the objective is to optimize juice filtration, reduce the consumption of chemical inputs, and increase energy efficiency. When sugarcane is milled, it generates juice rich in sugars and other substances, such as acids, salts, and colloids. To ensure product quality and purity, it is essential to eliminate impurities such as sand, clay, and bagasse. The clarification stage includes mechanical and chemical processes, such as heating and liming, which facilitate residue removal. This project contributes to the competitiveness and sustainability of the sugar-energy industry, strengthening its economic and environmental relevance. The replacement of screens resulted in a final product with greater purity and better commercial acceptance. Throughout almost every day in August 2024, the quantified ash content in crystal sugar significantly decreased compared to the same period in 2023. This improvement reflects an increase in the quality of sucrose produced by the industry.