ASCPC 2016 ABSTRACTS

Technical Session

Dynamics of the Global Sugar Industry: Challenges and Prospects

Arvind Chudasama

International Sugar Journal, London, UK

Abstract:

There is a widespread consensus among traders and analysts that the global sugar market has finally swung to a supply deficit after five years of surpluses. The 2015/16 (October to September) deficit is likely to be in the range 4 million to 5 million tonnes. While this deficit will cut into stores of sugar built up over the past years, it is unlikely to increase prices significantly. Effectively, the sugar market in 2015 ended where it started. While the supply-demand balance has the sway over prices, the contributory factors impacting the balance are many. These include, weather, policy measures (to include national and regional that support trade barriers, quotas, subsidies, soft loans) speculation, currency movement, rising population, urbanization and changing taste. Of these, the emerging issue that is spreading globally, and which may impact demand is the widespread demonization of sugar. This paper examines these dynamics shaping the industry and looks at the emerging biobased products sector which offers companies a significant opportunity to diversify and maintain competitiveness.

Overview of the Louisiana Sugar Industry

Herman Waguespack, Jr.

American Sugar Cane League, Thibodaux, LA, USA

Abstract:

Of the U.S. sugar producing areas, Louisiana is the oldest and most historic. Sugarcane arrived in Louisiana with the Jesuit priests in 1751, who planted it near Baronne Street in New Orleans. Several plantations were planted in what is now the city limits of New Orleans, and in 1795 Etienne de Bore first granulated sugar on a commercial scale at Audubon Park. Except for disastrous production years during the Civil War, during a disease epidemic of the 1920's, and from 10 degree freezing temperatures affecting the 1990 crop, the Louisiana sugarcane industry has continued to increase in productivity, mainly due to improved varieties, cultural practices, pest control, and sugar processing techniques. The Louisiana sugarcane industry is currently

in its third century of sugar production. Sugarcane is produced on over 500,000 acres in 22 Louisiana Parishes. The yearly Louisiana production of thirteen million tons of sugarcane generates an economic impact of US$2.7 billion to the state. With approximately 451 cane farms and 11 raw sugar factories, Louisiana produces about 20% of the sugar grown in the United States (beets and cane). Approximately 16,400 employees are involved in the production and processing of sugar in Louisiana.

National Sorghum Producers: The Voice of the Sorghum Industry

Brent Crafton

United Sorghum Checkoff Program, Southern Illinois, USA

Abstract:

The National Sorghum Producers (NSP), will provide an overview of the sorghum industry that includes grain sorghum, and biomass sorghum, while highlighting sweet sorghum throughout the United States. NSP is leading legislative and regulatory change through effective policy and relationships for a more profitable, diverse, and competitive sorghum industry. NSP will also define the role of the United Sorghum Checkoff Program (USCP), which operates under the authority of the Commodity, Promotion, Research and Information Act of 1996. The Sorghum Checkoff Program is working to improve the profitability of the sorghum industry through research, promotion, and information.

Agronomic Characteristics and Advantages of Beets (Beta vulgaris) as a Feedstock

Duane W. Bernhardson1, Jay P. Miller,2 Margaret Rekoske3

1Betseed, Incorporated, Grand Forks, ND, USA2Betaseed, Incorporated Bloomington, MN, USA

3Betaseed, Incorporated Shakopee, MN, USA

Abstract:

Beets (Beta vulgaris) center of origin is the Mediterranean region. Around 2000 B.C. beets were first cultivated for medicinal use and as an herb. They were later selected for their root shape from wild species and since that time they have continued to be used as a vegetable and feedstock for livestock. In the mid-1700’s beets were identified as a source of sucrose by Andreas Marggraff. During the Napoleonic Wars, and since then, beets have been cultivated for sucrose. Currently they are predominately cultivated for refined sugar production, and additionally as a feedstock for bioenergy production and high energy animal feed. They have several advantages as a feedstock due to their: wide adaptation to most soil types and climates, drought and salt tolerance, breeding advancements for pest, disease, herbicide tolerance, and improved yield and sugar content. Beets are a non-maturing crop that can be stored in a variety of methods, and have the ability to be grown as a spring and/or winter crop depending on climate. They are capable of producing a crop across virtually all of North America and thus have been able to prove themselves as a viable feedstock for numerous

purposes including: refined sugar production, animal feed, bioenergy production and industrial sugars and chemicals due to their agronomic adaptability and characteristics.

Lignocellulosic Waste Materials as Source of Sugar Derivatives and Products

Jesús E.Larrahondo,1; Sonia P. Ordoñez,2 Crispin Humberto Garcia-Cruz,2 Mauricio Boscolo,2and Elkin Mauricio Rodríguez1

1USC, Cali, Columbia2IBILCE, UNESP, Brazil

Abstract:

New products derived from biomass represent, for producers of sugarcane and alcohol, great economic potential. This has led in the food and/or drugs industries to study ligno-cellulosic materials, such as bagasse from sugarcane, as raw material. This requires technical and economic analysis within the integrated production of sugar, bioethanol, and paper. In this work the main compounds present in acid hydrolysates of bagasse, obtained at the laboratory scale, were characterized by GC-MS. Similarly, exploratory evaluation of the potential use of activated carbon as a detoxifying agent or remover of inhibitors of the alcoholic fermentation and potential production of cellulose microcrystalline from sugarcane bagasse was also observed. In this study compounds with added value, such as vanillin and acetovanillone, were characterized from fractions of lignin (black liquor) obtained from bagasse. In addition, activated carbon removed furfural and phenols from bagasse hydrolysates, which are potential inhibitors of enzymes and yeasts used in bioethanol production.

The New Large-scale Sweet Sorghum Industry in the USA

Matt Heckemeyer

Heckemeyer Mill, Sikeston, MO

Abstract:

Sweet sorghum has been widely recognized as a promising sugar feedstock crop for the manufacture of bioproducts. Heckemeyer Mill has built and equipped the largest, commercial-scale sweet sorghum processing plant in the USA, which is located in Sikeston, Missouri. The plant is currently capable of crushing up to 90 tons/h (equivalent to ~120 acres/day) and producing 24,000 gal of juice per day. Business aims include the production of food-grade syrup and potable alcohol, as well as syrup for the manufacture of non-food grade biofuels and biochemicals. All non-processed fiber is dedicated for large-scale cattle feed at the Heckemeyer farm, with the possibility of incorporating it into particle board. Processing by-products also include seed-heads, juice sediment, and clarification mud. Such by-products are rich in starch, and it is a goal of the

Heckemyer Mill to recycle them into fermentation tanks to improve fermentation yields once technology has been optimized. A full processing scheme for the plant will be described.

Convert Simple Sugars to Profits

David Blume

Blume Distillation, LLC, Freedom, CA, USA

Abstract:

Simple sugars are a readily abundant resource, although they are often discounted as a building block of economic enterprise. Fermentable C5 and C6 sugars can be the cornerstone of a thriving renewables business that is profitable and sustainable. Using raw sugar as a feedstock, one ton would yield ~135.4 gallons of alcohol fuel, while refined sugar would yield ~ 141.0 gallons. In today’s market, appropriate scale alcohol fuel is an inexpensive to produce low-return commodity. The keys to creating truly profitable returns with simple sugars, in a well run appropriate-scale alcohol operation. Success depends on getting good margins, and producing high-value, high-demand end and co-products, including food, industrial, and pharmaceutical grades of alcohol, and CO2 which has market value in industrial applications and beverage markets. All currently have an exponentially better return than fuel. These co-products are actually worth much more than the fuel itself and provide income stability when alcohol or feedstock prices are volatile. This paper provides detailed and unique insight into the design and development of lucrative new products related to fuel production, as well as myriad non-exportable jobs related to development and distribution for small-scale biofuel businesses and presents proven methods for market development and communications.

Ethanol Production by Fermentation With and Without Yeast Recycle

Henrique Vianna de Amorim

Fermentec Ltda, Piracicaba, SP, Brazil

Abstract:

There are two main fermentation processes in the world for ethanol production: with no yeast recycle and with yeast recycle. Both could be either batch or continuous. Most of the ethanol produced in the world comes from distilleries without yeast recycle due to the impossibility to recycle the yeast because of the high insoluble solids in the fermented mash, or due to the lack of knowledge of the recycle process. The conditions necessary to choose one or the other process, and the advantages and disadvantages of the two processes, including the batch and continuous variations, will be presented. In conclusion, if you have the right set of conditions, the batch process, with yeast recycle is better due to the greater possibility of yeast selection, if

you have the right tools. Also, fermentation is faster and less prone to bacterial contamination and, of course, results in higher yields.

Incremental Industrial Uses of Sweet Sorghum

Aaron Pepper

SouthEast Renewables, LLC., Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA

Abstract:

Southeast Renewables LLC, based in Florida, USA is planning a very large-scale sweet sorghum plant. The aim of this plant is to grow sweet sorghum and extract juice using diffusion technology. The juice will be uitilized for the manufacture of the following products and by-products: (1) ethanol, (2) butanol, (3) astaxanthin, (4) vinasse fertilizer, and (5) fiber. Other possible industrial products that can be manufactured from sweet sorghum will be discussed and include renewable electricity, synthetic diesel fuel, bio-isoprene, bioplastics, synthetic diesel fuel, and fuel pellets. The paper will discuss the markets for these products and well as their industrial production.

De-trashing Sugarcane and Utilizing Trash and Bagasse for the Production of Bio-carbon, Equals Higher Sugar Yields, Zero Agricultural Waste, a Clean Environment and Increased Profits for the

Sugar Industry

Erwin Bogner and Rick Buhr

American Biocarbon LLC, White Castle, LA, USA

Abstract:

Current harvest practices for sugarcane in Louisiana create multiple waste streams, such as field trash, bagasse, filtered field dirt, and boiler ash. The disposals of these waste streams pollute the environment and are very costly to the sugar industry. American Biocarbon LLC has developed a sugarcane de-trashing and bio-carbon manufacturing process, utilizing these multiple sugarcane harvest waste streams. This newly developed sugarcane-harvesting practice utilizes all sugarcane harvest waste streams and converts these waste materials into environmentally friendly bio-carbon for fuel, as well as bio-carbon for high quality soil amendment. Reduction or elimination of these sugarcane waste streams, will eventually eliminate the burning in the fields, improve the sugar milling process, so more sugar is produced per harvested acre, and clean up the environment. Adopting this newly developed harvesting practice is a win/win/win situation for the Louisiana sugarcane industry, American Biocarbon LLC, and the environment.

Sugarcane Residue and Bagasse as Biochar Precursors for Soil Amendment Applications

Isabel Lima and Renee Bigner

USDA-ARS-SRRC, New Orleans, LA, USA

Abstract:

There are two potential untapped resources associated with the harvesting and processing of sugarcane, the trash (leaves and tops) left in the field or possibly blown off at the factory, and the sugarcane bagasse as surplus from the mills. Burning of sugarcane trash in the field has been under scrutiny in recent years due to urban encroachment and air-quality concerns and excess trash left in the field can also reduce ratoon crop yields due to lower soil temperatures and higher soil moisture. Sugarcane mills produce excess bagasse during the processing season which is left unused for the remainder of the year. These two organic feedstocks can be thermo-chemically converted into biochars (BC) that can be brought back to the field to be used as a soil amendment to enhance soil health, water holding capacity and improve sugarcane yields. Biochars from sugarcane leaf residue (variety HoCP 96-540) and sugarcane bagasse were applied at three application rates, 0, 4, and 8%, with and without commercial fertilizer. Biochars and feedstocks were chemically characterized for their nutrient content, several physico-chemical and adsorptive properties. Sugarcane biomass and theoretical recoverable sucrose (TRS) content were measured and compared across the different treatments. Possible benefits of biochar include an increase in soil carbon content, improvement of soil drainage and aeration, and addition of nutrients to the growing sugarcane crop. Benefits are expected to both sugarcane growers and processors through the production of valued by-products from pyrolysis of sugarcane trash and bagasse as well as enhancing the sugarcane industry’s role in renewable energy markets.

NIR – New Technology to Improve Cane Quality

Anna L. Hale,1 Ryan P. Viator,2 Gillian Eggleston,3 and Alexa Triplett3

1USDA-ARS Sugarcane Research Unit, Houma, LA, USA 2Calvin Viator Ph.D. and Associates, LLC, Houma, LA, USA

3USDA-ARS-SRRC, New Orleans, LA, USA

Abstract:

Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRs) is gaining popularity among scientists studying sugarcane crop quality, and the technology has potential to benefit Louisiana’s sugar industry. Once calibrated correctly, the instrument can be used to estimate the different chemical compositions in sugarcane biomass. A similar version of this system is used for cane payments in South Africa and Australia. The instrument is calibrated using a very high

number of spectra produced from ground, fresh sugarcane stalks and referenced against a separate laboratory analysis for sucrose, brix, fiber, and moisture obtained with separate methodologies. The system is self-contained and includes a cane shredder in tandem with a conveyer which passes the shredded cane in front of an NIR detector. The system is simple to use, with few software controls, and a minimal learning curve. Up to 500 samples per day can be run through the machine with two to three operators and no laboratory consumables. This type of equipment has the potential to minimize laboratory errors and discrepancies, increase the number of samples the laboratory can handle, and reduce labor requirements.

Green Harvesting Residues: Advances on its Effects and Strategies to Reduce its Impact in the Factory

Nicolás Gil, Stephania Imbachi, Tatiana Daza, Julián Lucuara, and Tatiana Sanchez

Centro de Investigación de la Caña de Azúcar, Cenicaña, Cali, Columbia

Abstract:

The harvesting system in Colombia has changed in the last 8 years from 20% cane harvested mechanically to 50% on average harvested mechanically and green, with some of the mills achieving 70%. These changes in cane quality occurred simultaneously with changes in the variety of cane; both of them affecting the recovery of sucrose and sugar quality. This paper presents the assessment of the impact of processing green harvesting residues (GHR) on the stability and efficiency of the sucro-energy processes and quality of the intermediate materials. In preparation and crushing, it was found that changes in ± 1% of industrial fiber decreased the extraction efficiency to 0.5%. In the boilers, the amount of bagasse can be increased to 23% due the decrease in the calorific value of the bagasse associated with higher content of ashes of the GHR compared with clean stalk. On the other hand, the mixed juice color increased from 8900 IU in cane with 2% of GHR residues to 27,000 IU in cane with 7-8 % GHR. The soluble starch also increased in syrup from 900 mg/kg DS to 1600 mg/kg DS. This paper also summarizes some of the strategies implemented by the Colombian sugar industry to mitigate the effects described. These include the use of a heavy-duty shredder in combination with mills with an electrically driven motor, and the adoption of technology development by Cenicaña such as mill settings evaluation, torque control, and imbibition online control. In addition, the implementation of the methodologies to quantify the natural sugarcane color compounds and the color compounds formed in the factory to have a better idea of the action of the different decolorants. The use of amylase to hydrolyze starch, as well as the characterization of microorganisms and their metabolites (organic acids and dextrans), also have contributed to mitigating the impact of processing GHR. In the near future, Cenicaña will pursue the acquisition of a pilot plant to facilitate the research in this topic.

High Performance Adsorbants (HPA) Eco-friendly Technology for Color Removal in Sugar

Emmanuel M. Sarir and Benhur R. Pabon

Carbo Solutions International, Los Angeles, CA, USA

Abstract:

Concerns have been raised in recent decades regarding the sustainability of the sugar industry. Pressure for responsible production has come largely from the importers of sugar and ethanol from developed countries and even in local markets. HPA technology is developed from new engineered powder adsorbants with

exceptional high color removal capacity and filterability that allow its use even in high scale sugar refining facilities incorporating both carbonatation and phosphatation processes. The use of HPA technology provides significant advantages in achieving more effective color removal, lower operational cost, and ecofriendly operation in sugar refineries. This paper discusses several important trends in sugar industry sustainability, features of HPA, and its comparison with traditional color removal technologies with a focus on carbon footprint and environmental impact. Data presented includes comparisons between HPA and traditional powder activated carbons, theoretical mass and energy balance for most common color removal technologies.

Biochemical Conversion of Sugar to Novel Renewable Products and Materials

Christopher Skory

USDA-ARS-NCAUR, Peoria, IL, USA

Abstract:

Dextrans and related glucan polysaccharides are synthesized from sucrose by enzymes, called glucansucrases, which are produced by lactic acid bacteria. These water-soluble glucans have been studied for many years and are used in numerous commercial applications and products. A small number of Leuconostoc mesenteroides strains and cariogenic Streptococcus species can also produce water-insoluble glucans that have potential for enhanced oil recovery, encapsulation technology and production of biocompatible films and fibers. We recently developed technology for large-scale production of a recombinant glucansucrase enzyme from L. mesenteroides that produces water-insoluble glucans from sucrose. We can mechanically convert these unique glucans to nanoparticles that produce optically clear coatings and can act as carriers for hydrophobic compounds. We have also developed reaction methods and genetic engineering routes for producing glucans with altered linkage types that affect the physical properties of the polysaccharide. The L. mesenteroides glucansucrase is also more effective than previously described enzymes for the transfer of D-glucopyranosyl units from sucrose to acceptor sugars for the synthesis of novel glucosyl saccharides, which can be utilized as prebiotics and drug excipients. In addition to these unique glucans, we will briefly discuss the development of several other bioproducts that can be effectively made from sucrose.

Co-processing of Cane Raw Sugar in a Beet Sugar Factory in Europe

Barbara Muir,1 Laura Diego,2 and Renata Czaplinska3

1British Sugar, Newark Factory, Notts., UK2Asucarera, Toro, Spain

3AB Sugar, Peterborough, UK

Abstract:

Co-processing of cane sugar in beet factories has been investigated throughout Europe. In addition to creating sustainability and supplementing beet supply, this allows for increased sucrose (purity) throughput, either with or without plant modifications and additional process units (provided the technical difficulties with different types of colorants and impurities can be overcome). Such sugars are generally sold in excess of the national quota as determined by the Sugar Regime. This paper describes the options investigated within the AB Sugar group in Europe, including theoretical modelling as well as laboratory and pilot plant studies that

have successfully translated to industrial scale trials and further optimizations. Today, co-refining in these plants with minimal capital investment has become a matter of course.

Color Precipitants for Premium Raw Sugar Production

Emmanuel M. Sarir, Benhur R. Pabon, Carlos A. Donado

Carbo-Solutions International, Los Angeles, CA, USA

Abstract:

There is renewed interest in the sugar industry around the world to produce a high quality raw grade sugar at the sugar mill, motivated by increasing factory revenue and factory refining process cost is associated with raw sugar quality. Many studies have already been done to develop a simple and economical decolorization processes to remove colored impurities in cane syrups, as a step toward this goal. This paper evaluates the use of new technologies as membrane filtration of juice, ion exchange and oxidative decolorants (ozone, H2O2), but the majority of them have not been successful due to their high capital investment requirements and/or operational aspects (high energy consumption, high maintenance cost). Sulphur dioxide (SO2) has been used for centuries to produce plantation white sugars. However there are many problems associated with the use of sulfur: high sucrose inversion, increase on evaporators scaling, corrosion in pipes and process equipment, and environmental and health concerns. US-FDA currently has a 10 ppm limit on residual sulphur dioxide allowed in food products. With reference to case studies, this paper describes and discusses the use of color precipitant process aids for increasing sugar refinery and sugar mill throughput and color removal process performance, allowing reduction/elimination of traditional sulphitation procedures to obtain plantation white or premium raw sugar quality. Color precipitants are polymers of macro molecular chains, with special properties allowing their application in juice, raw syrup, or vacuum pans. This liquid product contains strong activated adsorbent radical group which can destabilize and trap impurities and then remove them from the pan. Due its very low viscosity and high water solubility it allows easy and complete elimination on the centrifugation stage. It helps to improve the efficiency of the centrifugation and therefore less washing time is required when the product is used in the pans. The product enjoys lower dosage rates and does not generate solid waste.

Microbiology in the Sugar Industries

Maureen Wright

USDA-ARS-SRRC, New Orleans, LA, USA

Abstract:

Sugars from sugarcane, sweet sorghum, and sugar beet juice are susceptible to growth of microbes that are present in the field and factory. Microbial contamination can cause loss of both quality and quantity of fermentable sugars through consumption and production of by-products such as exopolysaccharides. Some microbes find the conditions of juice more conducive to growth and will out-compete other populations. Microbial populations are also affected by temperature, rainfall, soil type, plant variety/cultivar, and pH. Microbes on the plant and in the soil are introduced to juice during processing, and will consume sugars during transport and storage. The time frame between harvest and

final processing is thereby limited. Efforts to develop effective technologies to minimize microbial contamination are challenging because of the broad range of microbial types that can potentially contaminate sugar crops. Populations of microbes that prefer microenvironments, such as high temperature and high osmotic pressure, further exacerbate attempts to control microbes during sugar processing. Microorganisms found in juice also impact the potential to develop value-added uses for bagasse and other by-products, including soil amendments, fuel, and animal feed. Challenges specific to microbial contamination of each sugar crop will be discussed, as well as the potential for targeted control.

Development of Sweet Sorghum as a Feedstock Crop

Randy Powell, Steve Smith, Jared Lindley, and Maury Radin

Delta BioRenewables LLC, Memphis TN.

Abstract:

Since 2009, Memphis-based Delta BioRenewables LLC has operated a semi-works scale facility to demonstrate scalable and replicable technologies for processing sweet sorghum as a commercial feedstock crop. The presentation will profile the development of commodity and specialty products from both the sugar and lignocellulosic components of the crop. In addition, the presenter will summarize multi-year crop results; assess billet and forage-harvesting options; and profile roll mill juice extraction technology development.

Production of Multiple Agricultural Feedstocks for Processing into Biofuels and Biobased Chemicals

Benjamin L. Legendre

Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, Audubon Sugar Institute, St. Gabriel, LA, USA

Abstract:

This project consists of an array of experts in crop production, protection, and processing to develop complete guidelines for cultivation and harvest of energycane and sweet sorghum, the biomass crops targeted for the Southern United States. A third source of biomass that compliments these crops is the surplus bagasse produced by the eleven raw sugar factories operating in Louisiana. Economists and other logisticians have identified optimal locations in the southern United States for bio-refineries, based on the availability of marginal lands. Life cycle analyses, C sequestration efforts, and wildlife ecological efforts are defining the environmental impact of production of these crops compared to more traditional crops. Research in-house and at facilities of private sector partners have identified a group of high-value products that can serve as suitable feedstocks for selected polymers, bulk chemical, and high–value liquid sectors. Researchers have produced, clarified, and de-ashed syrups derived from energycane and sweet sorghum to meet standard industry specifications for the production of biofuels and biobased chemicals. Research has led to the development of processes to produce and concentrate butanol and isopropanol through fermentation of biomass feedstocks. Two private ventures, NFR Bioenergy and Virdia Inc, a subsidiary of Stora Enso of Helsinki, Finland, have started construction of plants in Louisiana at two sugarcane factories, Cora Texas Manufacturing Company and Raceland Raw Sugar to produce fuel pellets and cellulosic sugars, conventional sugars and starch for the production of gasoline, jet fuel, diesel and biobased chemicals, respectively, from

surplus bagasse at these two factories. The companies indicated that, if successful, negotiations with the remaining nine factories could be initiated to install additional facilities.

Yield and Quality of Some Egyptian New Candidate Sugarcane Varieties under Different Conditions

Ayman Mohamed Abd El-Razek, A. M., R. S. Besheit., and K. S. El-Sogheir

Sugar Crops Research Institute, Agric. Res. Centre, Giza, 12619, Egypt

Abstract:

Two field trials were carried out in two different agro-ecological sites, the first was at Upper Egypt (Luxor Governorate) and the other was at Middle Egypt (Minia Governorate), during the two seasons 2012-2013 and 2013- 2014 as plant cane (first growing season and repeated in 2013-2014 as 1st ratoon). Five newly released promising varieties developed in Egypt named G84/47, G. 2003/44, G. 2004/25, G. 2004/27 and G. 2007/61, in addition to G.T. 54/9 the standard commercial variety, were evaluated for their productivity, quality, and resistance to insect pests under natural infestation (stem borer and pink mealybug). The obtained results indicated: All the new candidate cane varieties under both Luxor and Minia locations showed a relative high degree of tolerance toward both insect stem borer and mealybug infestations compared with the commercial ones, and this trend was true for the two cane plant seasons and the ratoon as well. This emphasized that, in general, nothing of cane variety is immune to insect infestation. The reduction of all studied traits (cane yield, stalk component, juice quality, and sugar yield) due to both insects caused less damage at the Luxor than Minia site. Productivity, quality, and sugar yield of all the tested varieties, especially G.2003/44 and G. 84/47, greatly surpassed the commercial G.T.54/9, in the three seasons under both locations. Results of the interaction between the two variables with regard to cane yield, quality, sugar yield and the tolerance to both insect pests, indicated the possibility of planting the new cane varieties under both sites successfully. Therefore, it could be concluded that any of these varieties could replace or be ancillary to the commercial varieties, under both sites, especially commercial variety GT 54/9 which was cultivated under Egyptian conditions for a long time. The latter has faced obvious reductions in cane and sugar yields in addition to the build-up of diseases and pests, reflecting a great risk facing the sugar industry. Meanwhile, continuous screening for new cane candidate commercial varieties with high productivity and tolerance against pests and diseases is of paramount importance to cane growers and manufacturers.

Characterization of Cellulose Nanocrystals Extracted from Sugarcane Bagasse

Nga Tien Lam and Prakit Sukyai

Biotechnology of Biopolymers and Bioactive Compounds Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Agro-Industry, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, 10900, Thailand

Abstract:

Sugarcane bagasse (SCB) is one of the abundant agro-wastes in Thailand, and its utilization as a cellulose source to extract nanocellulose has attracted a lot of interest in biomaterial application. In this study, cellulose was purified from

SCB using an environmentally friendly process, with SCB pretreated by steam explosion at pressure 13 bar (195 oC) in 15 minutes. Subsequently, xylanase treatment was applied to enhance hemicellulose degradation, followed by bleaching with 1.4% sodium chlorite. Extracted cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) by acid hydrolysis were characterized for morphology, functional chemical groups, crystallinity percentage, and thermal stability by atomic force microscopy (AFM) image, fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), respectively. The obtained CNCs were considered as a potential candidate for reinforced materials.

STARCH WORKSHOP ABSTRACTS

Jack Thompson, Manager, Louisiana Sugar Refining LLC, Gramercy, LA, USA. “Factory and Refinery Starch Issues: Industries Perspective.” Jack.thompson@lsrsugar.com. Missing abstract

New Starch Methodology to Measure Both Soluble and Insoluble Starch and How it Impacts Sugar Crop Production

Marsha Cole,1 Gillian Eggleston,1 Alexa Triplett,1 June Naiki2

1USDA-ARS-SRRC, New Orleans, LA, USA2American Sugar Refining, Inc., Arabi, LA, USA

Abstract:

Starch exists as storage granules (insoluble physical form) in both sugarcane (SC) and sweet sorghum (SS) crops and is composed of long, entangled glucose chains (soluble physical form). With the advent of the USDA Starch Research method, we have been able to better understand how starch concentration and physical form affect sugar crop processing, conversion, and end-goals since starch is not as easily solubilized as once presumed. In a short video demonstration, the audience will be introduced to the USDA Starch Research method. Examples of how the USDA Starch Research method has been used for the SC and SS industries will also be discussed. General topics regarding starch solubilization across factory streams and its affect on processing include (i) viscosity problems, (ii) insoluble starch persistence across processing streams (insoluble starch in SC raw and refined sugars and a consequent penalty of >250 ppm/Brix), and (iii) unsuitable raw sugar or consumer quality syrup production. The effects of starch physical form in carbonatation raw sugar refining will also be briefly visited emphasizing filterability challenges and the production of calcium carbonate fines (<5µm). An overview of other industry starch methods used in the world-wide sugar industry will also be compared to the USDA Starch Research Method. Lastly, the audience will be introduced to the new USDA Factory Method. The goal of this presentation is to provide the audience powerful insight into research and industrial concerns and opportunities regarding the role of starch in the two different sugar industries.

Starch in Sweet Sorghum and Sugarcane: Problems, Opportunities, and Control

Gillian Eggleston,1 Belisario Montes,2 David Stewart,2 Marsha Cole,1 Alexa Triplett,1 Matthew Heckemeyer,3

and Isabel Lima1

1USDA-ARS-SRRC, New Orleans, LA, USA2Alma Plantation, Lakeland, LA, USA

3Heckemeyer Mill, Sikeston, MO, USA

Abstract:Sugarcane is primarily utilized for the manufacture of sugar as well as bioproducts in some countries, whereas sweet sorghum is only utilized for food-grade syrup and bioproducts. The extracted juice from both of these grass crops contains insoluble starch, but much greater quantities occur in sweet sorghum. In sugarcane, starch is a processing impurity, and the new knowledge that there is markedly more insoluble starch than previously considered in products across both the factory and refinery has negatively implicated viscosity, amylase applications, and refinery filtration operations. In sweet sorghum, starch is also a processing problem and an opportunity if the fermentable sugars in starch can be tapped into. Sweet sorghum starch is best removed during large-scale processing by juice sedimentation followed by clarification (80 ˚C; lime to pH 6.5; 5 ppm flocculant), which concentrates soluble and insoluble starch in juice sediment and clarification mud. These by-products can then be recycled into the fermentation tank with appropriate starch degrading enzymes. In sugarcane, both high-temperature (HT) and intermediate-temperature (IT) stable amylases can hydrolyze starch in clarified juice at 96 ˚C during the first 10 min before substantial denaturation, but HT amylases can sometimes cause carry-over amylase activity in the raw sugar even at 1 ppm. A possible solution to controlling both carry-over amylase and insoluble starch at the factory and refinery is the use of powdered activated carbon. Novel combinations and doses (0 to 10 ppm) of an IT stable amylase added to a clarifier tank, next-to-the-last evaporator, and/or last evaporator at a factory, were studied. Using the new USDA research starch method to measure total, insoluble, and soluble starch, a full picture of how starch is transformed and removed by the application of an IT amylase was achieved. Soluble starch was easier to control than insoluble starch. The simultaneous addition of IT amylase to the next-to-the-last evaporator and last evaporator gave the highest hydrolysis of both soluble (99.8%) and insoluble (73.1%) starches.

A New Enzymatic Solution to Remove Starch from Sugarcane with No Residue Enzyme in Final Sugar

Jadyr Oliveira,1 Danilo Oliveira,2 Diego Oliveira,1 and Rafael Borges1

1Prozyn Biosolutions, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil2DOCS, Piracicaba, SP, Brazil

Abstract:The application of the enzyme-amylase in sugarcane juice has proven to be very effective in reducing the starch content, with significant benefit to the quality of the produced sugar and with a positive cost/benefit ratio. Some constraints are considered related to incomplete inactivation of the -amylase enzyme, which limits the application of the sugar in processed products that has starch in its composition. This study aims to demonstrate the effectiveness of

an -amylase named StarMax Zero, developed by Prozyn, which has the characteristic of being self-inactivated minutes after his performance in the starch molecule, thus ensuring no active enzyme in the sugar. The tests were conducted in three periods of 30 days each, with application of a conventional -amylase in the 1st and 3rd periods, and applying StarMax Zero in the intermediary period. The results show that both enzymes were able to reduce the starch content levels in cane juice, but only StarMax Zero due to its engineered innovation, has been demonstrated to be inactivated and does not cause residual active enzyme in the sugar produced. A significant reduction in the turbidity of the clarified juice and syrup is also presented, but this issue deserves further investigation since it was not a relevant part of the objective of this work.

Insights into Streams Characterization and Enzymatic Solutions for Sugar and Ethanol Production from Sugarcane

Jacqueline Chimilovski and Armindo Gaspar

Novozymes Latin America, Auraucaria, Brazil

Abstract:

In the extremely competitive market of sugar, unit operations in sugarcane mills currently works close to their maximum capacities or have yields near their theoretical limits, but there is still room for important improvements. Enzyme applications can be a sustainable solution for increasing the productivity of sugarcane mills and smoothing their process. Novozymes has been developing new enzymatic solutions to improve quality of the final products and increase process and productivity gains on the sugarcane market. Additionally, new versions of current solutions are constantly developed and improved. One example is the development of high performance -amylases for starch degradation without residual activity in the final sugar product. Bioinnovation is based on close contact with sugarcane mills as well as on a deep understanding of the process and the chemical composition of different streams. This has led us to develop technology demanded by the industry with strong scientific support. Evaluations include the chemical composition of juice and molasses from different Brazilian mills, collected during a full season, which gave insight into the importance of substrate variation for developing robust enzymatic solutions.

The Effect of Starch and Non Starch Polysaccharides on the Cane Purchasing System: The Thai Experience

Wirat Vanichsriratana,1 Sombat Khotavivattana,2 and Klanarong Sriroth1

1Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Agro-Industry, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand2Department of Product Development, Faculty of Agro-Industry, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand

Abstract:

The Thai cane and sugar industry has been using the Commercial Cane Sugar (CCS) for its cane purchasing system since 1992. The system determines the cane price as a function of cane quality. This index is affected by starch and dextran contamination in the cane juice sample. During 2012-2015, multiple cases of contamination were reported and influenced the overall cane price. While starch contamination is commonly found in samples in all regions, dextran contamination is mainly found only in cane from the Northeastern region. The long distance between farm and factory (cut to crush time) allows conversion of glucose to

dextran, thus causing the unusual purity index (>90%) that is indicative of prominent dextran contamination in the region.

POSTER ABSTRACTS

1. Use of Vegetable Oils for the Long-term Storage of Sweet Sorghum Syrups

Gillian Eggleston,1 Stephanie Boone,1 Lynda Wartelle,1 Eldwin St. Cyr,1 Alexa Triplett,1 Matthew Heckemeyer,2 Randall Powell,3 and Maureen Wright1

1USDA-ARS-Southern Regional Research Center, New Orleans, LA, USA2DeltaBiorenewables LLC, Memphis, TN, USA

3Heckemeyer Mill, Sikeston, MO, USA

Abstract:

For the newly developing large-scale manufacture of biofuels/bioproducts from sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench), it is critical that 65 Brix syrups be stored long-term for year-round supply, efficient transport, acceptable end-product yields, and economic viability. Unfortunately, sweet sorghum syrup is vulnerable to microbial spoilage during storage and this represents a major technical challenge. Previous research indicated that 0.85 cm soybean oil was a promising surface sealant of sweet sorghum syrups for at least 80 days if stored at 25 C. ̊ The storage of pilot plant and industrial scale manufactured clarified syrups from sweet sorghum were evaluated. Three inexpensive vegetable oils were evaluated as surface sealants (0 to 1.7 cm thick layers) on clarified 65 Brix syrups, and stored for 1 year at ~25 ˚C. Soybean, canola, and sunflower oil sealants all preserved 65 Brix syrups for up to 1 year, especially with 1.7 cm layers. Soybean oil (up to 0.5 cm) did not preserve 28 Brix syrups against severe microbial deterioration, even over the first 7 days of storage, and other stabilization technologies need to be investigated.

2. The Production of Butanol and Isopropanol from Energycane Syrup using Clostridium beijerinckii optinoii

Young Hwan Moon, Ying Yang, and Franz Ehrenhauser

Audubon Sugar Institute, LSU Agricultural Center, St. Gabriel, LA, USA

Abstract:

Clostridium beijerinckii optinoii produces butanol, isopropanol, and very little ethanol/acetone in a 6.0: 3.8: 0.2 weight ratio, unlike other ABE organisms where the ratio is 6:3:1 (butanol:acetone:ethanol, weight ratio). Acetone is not considered to be favorable for downstream process due to its corrosiveness and volatility. The butanol/isopropanol mix produced by Clostridium beijerinckii optinoii is expected to be more practical for butanol production than the butanol/acetone mix from the ABE fermentations. Under an LSU AgCenter program funded by the USDA, sweet sorghum and energycane are being studied as biofuel feedstocks on producing butanol from the crops component sugars through microbial fermentation with the Clostridium bacterium. Sugarcane molasses normally is used as the feedstock for butanol fermentations. Sugarcane molasses contains sucrose, fructose, and glucose. The test biofuel crops produce syrups containing the same sugars as the sugarcane molasses. In this study, the sugar feeds from sugarcane

molasses and energycane were tested in batch fermentations (10 L scale) to maximize the production of butanol and isopropanol using Clostridium beijerinckii optinoii. Using 3% glucose as a carbon source, the solvent concentrations (butanol and isopropanol) and solvent yields were 10.03 g/L and 0.43 g/g, respectively, with a sugar utilization of 81.7%. However, on 2.5% glucose medium supplemented with an additional 0.5% sugar supplied as sugarcane molasses, sugar consumption was 100% and the solvent concentrations (13.37 g/L) and solvent yields (0.45 g/g) were both higher. Energycane syrup (2.5%) with sugarcane molasses (0.5%) with invertase produced a solvent concentration of 10.61 g/L and solvent yield of 0.36 g/g with sugar consumption of 100%. This work showed that the production of butanol and isopropanol from glucose or energycane using Clostridium beijerinckii optinoii can be increased by adding sugarcane molasses as a cheap supplementary nutrient. Due to the low productivity for butanol production in batch fermentation, an immobilized cell production system for the energycane syrup with sugarcane molasses will be introduced to improve the butanol productivity.

3. Microbial and Physicochemical Properties of Sugarcane Bagasse for Potential Conversion to Value-Added Products

Maureen Wright, Isabel Lima, and Renee Bigner

USDA-ARS-SRRC, New Orleans, LA, USA

Abstract:

Sugarcane bagasse is a potential source for commercially-viable products such as animal feed, mulch, or fuel. The applications will be determined by the levels of moisture, ash, and beneficial chemicals. Generating value-added products will be impacted, and may require conversion of the substrate, by microbes. Microbes present in bagasse have potential for optimal conversion to beneficial products because they have the ability to metabolize fibrous cane, and to survive the environmental conditions in bagasse. An analysis of both microbes and chemicals present in bagasse will be necessary to determine the most viable potential applications. This study evaluates the microbial and physicochemical properties in bagasse samples from three individual cultivars and one sample of mixed cultivars which were collected in south Louisiana. The individual cultivars were either shredded or passed through a roller mill. The mixed sample was collected from the final tandem mill at a factory. Samples for microbial analysis were grown on two types of media. One medium, MRS, selects for Leuconostoc and Lactobacillus, microbes that metabolize sugars. The second medium, NA, allows growth of a broad range of microbes which are present in the cane growing environment. Microbial counts and type were compared across cultivars and processing method and were correlated with physicochemical analyses.

4. Authentication of Sweet Sorghum Syrups by Ion Chromatography to Stop Adulteration and Mis-branding

Gillian Eggleston, Lynda Wartelle, and Eldwin St. Cyr

USDA-ARS-SRRC, New Orleans, LA, USA

Abstract:

Commercial sweet sorghum syrups can be adulterated with inexpensive sugar syrups, particularly high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) or corn syrup, and sold at a relatively low market price or even mis-branded. This undermines the economic stability of the current small-scale producers of food-grade sweet sorghum syrup as well as the developing large-scale bioproduct industry. An analytical method is urgently needed to evaluate adulterated commercial sweet sorghum syrups. Ion chromatography with integrated pulsed amperometric detection (IC-IPAD) has been previously used to differentiate white, refined sugars manufactured from sugarcane and sugar beet. By applying a strong IC-IPAD NaOH/NaOAc gradient method over 45 min, monosaccharides, oligosaccharides and oligosaccharide isomers of at least 2 to 12 dp, as well as sugar alchohols can be detected in multiple commercial sweet sorghum and other sugar syrups. Fingerprint IC oligosaccharide profiles are extremely selective, sensitive, and reliable. By using five characteristic marker

chromatography peaks of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), including maltose and maltotriose, in combination with a low sucrose peak, adulteration and mis-branded syrups were identified. The analysis of 7.0 Brix blind syrup samples, marker peaks allowed the detection of as low as 10% HFCS adulteration, which is within the lower limit of adulteration before action is taken.

5. Microbial and Physicochemical Properties of Sugarcane Bagasse for Potential Conversion to Value-Added Products

Maureen Wright, Isabel Lima, and Renee Bigner

USDA-ARS-SRRC, New Orleans, LA, USA

Abstract:

Sugarcane bagasse is a potential source for commercially-viable products such as animal feed, mulch, or fuel. The applications will be determined by the levels of moisture, ash, and beneficial chemicals. Generating value-added products will be impacted, and may require conversion of the substrate, by microbes. Microbes present in bagasse have potential for optimal conversion to beneficial products because they have the ability to metabolize fibrous cane, and to survive the environmental conditions in bagasse. An analysis of both microbes and chemicals present in bagasse will be necessary to determine the most viable potential applications. This study evaluates the microbial and physicochemical properties in bagasse samples from three individual cultivars and one sample of mixed cultivars which were collected in south Louisiana. The individual cultivars were either shredded or passed through a roller mill. The mixed sample was collected from the final tandem mill at a factory. Samples for microbial analysis were grown on two types of media. One medium, MRS, selects for Leuconostoc and Lactobacillus, microbes that metabolize sugars. The second medium, NA, allows growth of a broad range of microbes which are present in the cane growing environment. Microbial counts and type were compared across cultivars and processing method and were correlated with physicochemical analyses.

6. Authentication of Sweet Sorghum Syrups by Ion Chromatography to Stop Adulteration and Mis-branding

Gillian Eggleston, Lynda Wartelle, and Eldwin St. Cyr

USDA-ARS-SRRC, New Orleans, LA, USA

Abstract:

Commercial sweet sorghum syrups can be adulterated with inexpensive sugar syrups, particularly high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) or corn syrup, and sold at a relatively low market price or even mis-branded. This undermines the economic stability of the current small-scale producers of food-grade sweet sorghum syrup as well as the developing large-scale bioproduct industry. An analytical method is urgently needed to evaluate adulterated commercial sweet sorghum syrups. Ion chromatography with integrated pulsed amperometric detection (IC-IPAD) has been previously used to differentiate white, refined sugars manufactured from sugarcane and sugar beet. By applying a strong IC-IPAD NaOH/NaOAc gradient method over 45 min, monosaccharides, oligosaccharides and oligosaccharide isomers of at least 2 to 12 dp, as well as sugar alchohols can be detected in multiple commercial sweet sorghum and other sugar syrups. Fingerprint IC oligosaccharide profiles are extremely selective, sensitive, and reliable. By using five characteristic marker chromatography peaks of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), including maltose and maltotriose, in combination with a low sucrose peak, adulteration and mis-branded syrups were identified. The analysis of 7.0 Brix blind syrup samples, marker

peaks allowed the detection of as low as 10% HFCS adulteration, which is within the lower limit of adulteration before action is taken.

7. Genotype and Maturity Effects on the Economical Potential of Sweet Sorghum Starch and Fermentable Sugars in Juices

Marsha R. Cole,1 Gillian Eggleston,1 Eric Petrie,2 Sophie Uchimiya,1 and Caleb Dalley2

1USDA-ARS-SRRC, New Orleans, LA, USA2USDA-ARS-Sugarcane Research Unit, Houma, LA, USA

Abstract:

Starch from sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) is a promising source of untapped fermentable sugars that can add value to sweet sorghum juice and by-product fermentation yields. Little information exists regarding the economical value of starch in sweet sorghum nor the optimal genotype, maturity, and environment for ideal harvesting and juice fermentation quality parameters. In this study, the quality parameters of four commercial cultivars, Dale, M81E, Theis, and Topper were grown in southern Louisiana (over 2 years) and studied at the milk (M), soft dough (SD), hard dough (HD), physiological (PM), and post-physiological (PPM) maturity stages were assessed. The majority of the juice quality and physical crop traits essential to processing and fermentation were strongly influenced by environmental and genotype interactions (<0.0001), however total sugars and juice phosphates were affected by genotype and maturity interactions. Although a moderately strong correlation between total sugars and juice Brix was found (R=0.767), the use of Brix as an in-field harvesting indicator to predict stalk maturity is not recommended since it does not consider genotype influences. Total sugars in extracted juice decreased by genotype in this order: Top 76-6 > Theis > Dale > M81E and was greatest at HD maturity. However, only a weak correlation was found between total starch and total sugars in the extracted juices, with total starch varying considerably (P<0.05) by genotype in this order: M81E >> Dale > Theis >>> Top 76-6. Theoretical ethanol values showed that ~6-17% added value can be obtained from the hydrolysable starch content in raw sweet sorghum juices, and possibly more when including processing by-products and seed heads are recycled back into fermentations. Top 76-6 was the best genotype for syrup manufacturing while it did have some small potential to augment fermentation yields with starch. Dale and M81E were most attractive for fermentations only if the additional value from its high starch content is utilized and its hydrolysis is economical to the manufacturing and fermentation processes.

8. Impact of Added Nutrients in Sweet Sorghum Syrup Fermentation to Produce Ethanol

K. Thomas Klasson

USDA-ARS-SRRC, New Orleans, LA, USA

Abstract:

This work demonstrated that sweet sorghum syrup was efficiently converted to ethanol by yeast. Fermentation broth with sweet sorghum syrup performed better (at least faster) than with only pure sugars due to the pH-buffering effect of sweet sorghum syrup solutions. Sugar solutions containing up to 200 g/L total sugar from sweet sorghum syrup were easily fermented with or without added nutrients. The addition of nutrients improved the rate of the fermentation but

did not impact the final product distribution. The synergetic impact of yeast extract and peptone as nutrients was demonstrated.

9. Mechanism of Action of Powdered Activated Carbons to Remove Residual Amylase Protein, Cane derived colorants, and Insoluble Starch

Isabel Lima,1 Gillian Eggleston1, Emmanuel Sarir,2 Carlos Andres Donado,3 Jack Thompson,4 and Eldwin St. Cyr1

1USDA-ARS-SRRC, New Orleans, LA, USA2CarboUA International, Los Angeles, CA, USA

3 CarboUA International, Sao Paulo, Brazil4LSR Refinery, LLC, Gramercy, LA, USA

Abstract:

There is a need in the world-wide sugar industry to find a practical and economical solution to remove or inactivate residual -amylases that are high temperature stable from factory or refinery streams. A survey of refineries that used amylase and had activated carbon systems for decolorization, revealed they did not have any customer complaints for residual amylase. Five commercial, high performance powdered activated carbons (PAC) were investigated for their ability to remove residual amylase as well as other impurities. Removal of the residual amylase protein by PAC was dependent on its surface area as well as mixing (retention) time. A select, high performance PAC (RFM-JH™) with high surface area (1764 m2/g) performed the best and, because this PAC also had the largest particle size characteristics (mean particle size ~274 μm), it was also the easiest to filter after use. Activated carbon also had the additional benefit of removing color, and RFM-JH™ preferentially removed cane derived flavonoid and phenolic colorants at pH 9 over process formed color at pH 4, which is the opposite of color removal by the refinery phosphatation-clarification process and thus complementary. The dose of RFM-JH™ was more critical than retention time with respect to color removal. RFM-JH™ also consistently removed undesirable insoluble starch from raw sugar syrups and refinery liquors. A tentative mechanism for the removal of impurities is provided. Further studies are now warranted to investigate the use of high performance PAC as a tool to remove residual amylase, select colorants, and insoluble starch at the large-scale.

10. Sweet Sorghum Bagasse for Production of Biochar

Isabel M. Lima and Renee L. Bigner

USDA-ARS-SRRC, New Orleans, LA, USA

Abstract:

Sweet sorghum bagasse is an untapped resourceful, carbon rich material that can be thermo-chemically converted into value-added biochars. These biochars can be applied to the field as a soil amendment for soil health enhancement, improved soil carbon content, water holding capacity, soil drainage and aeration, and plant and sugar yields. This study looked at four different varieties of sweet sorghum and processed their bagasse into biochars at low and high temperature (350 and 700 °C). The objective was to determine if there are key differences amongst the varieties and pyrolysis temperature in terms of resulting properties of the biochar. The feedstocks and respective biochars were chemically characterized for their nutrient content, and several physico-chemical and adsorptive properties were

determined to ascertain their potential use as either adsorbents, soil amendment materials, or as fuel sources and compared with other plant and refinery wastes. Benefits of using sweet sorghum bagasse as value-added material are expected for both sweet sorghum growers and processors through the production of value-added pyrolysis products as well as enhancing the sweet sorghum industry’s role in renewable energy markets.

11. Using Biocides to Reduce Sucrose Losses in Louisiana Raw Sugar Mills

Stephanie Boone,1 Gillian Eggleston,1 K. Thomas Klasson,1 Eldwin St. Cyr,1 Belisario Montes,2 Kevin Pontiff,3

Duane Legendre,3 and Maureen Wright1

1USDA-ARS-SRRC, New Orleans, LA, USA2Alma Plantation LLC, Lakeland, LA, USA

3Leighton Sugars LLC, Thibodaux, LA, USA

Abstract:

Sugarcane sucrose deterioration begins post-harvest causing significant problems for the sugar industry. In Louisiana, the majority of sucrose destruction occurs during storage in mill yards and overnight truck sleeper loads. Raw sugarcane factories in Louisiana apply biocides to reduce sucrose loss caused by bacterial contamination. However, very few factory studies have evaluated biocide usage, and no known biocide studies have included cane grinding rates. This study assessed three biocides, sodium hypochlorite (bleach), carbamate and humulone (hops) during cane juice processing at two Louisiana raw sugar factories, and included cane processing or juice flow rates by integrating factory tank and pipe retention times as sampling intervals. Processed juice exposure to biocide was calculated at less than 10 minutes. Results showed that bleach reduced microorganism growth by two logs. Carbamate and humulone application had no effect on growth, but microbe concentration varied with juice temperature, and the largest microbe reduction occurred during juice clarification. Currently, discontinuing usage of carbamate, humulone and bleach is not recommended. More research is needed in the area to determine if biocide application is practical and effective during factory operation. Study findings emphasize the increased need for consistent, rigorous factory and mill yard sanitation.

12. The First Use of a HPLC System at a Louisiana Sugarcane Factory: What it Can Do For You

Gillian Eggleston,1 David Stewart, 2 Belisario Montes,2 Lynda Wartelle,1 and Chardcie Verret3

1USDA-ARS-SRRC, New Orleans, LA, USA2Alma Plantation, 4612 Alma Road, Lakeland, LA, USA

3Audubon Sugar Institute, LSU, St. Gabriel, LA, USA

Abstract:

Alma Plantation sugarcane factory established and operated the first High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) system in Louisiana in 2015. Although many HPLC systems exist, the factory opted for a ThermoFisher TM ion chromatography (anion exchange) system with integrated pulsed amperometric detection. With the help of USDA-ARS and LSU scientists, a method was established to measure mannitol, glucose, fructose, and sucrose in 10 min. For the best accuracy, separate and higher dilutions are needed to quantitate sucrose due to its relatively high amount in sugar products (except molasses). Training was essential for operations and analyses. No technique is worth anything if the results cannot be interpreted properly, thus, training was also critical in basic sugar chemistry, Leuconostoc sugarcane deterioration reactions, and color formation in the factory. A simplified chart was provided to the factory staff to help interpret the results. The HPLC system allowed the factory to: (i) monitor sucrose losses in “real time”, (ii) rapidly

identify dextran via mannitol, (iii) rapidly monitor molasses exhaustion and enzyme applications, and (iv) explain difficult samples more easily. The pros and cons of using a HPLC system at a sugarcane factory are described.

13. Low Tech Use of Post-Harvest, Processed Sugarcane Bagasse

Charles L. Webber III,1 Paul M. White Jr.,1 Eric C. Petrie,1 James W. Shrefler,2 and Merritt J. Taylor3

1USDA-ARS, Sugarcane Research Unit, Houma, LA, USA2Oklahoma State University, Division of Agriculture Sciences and Natural Resources, Cooperative Extension

Service, OK, USA3Oklahoma State University, Division of Agriculture Sciences and Natural Resources, Department of

Agricultural Economics, Durant, OK, USA

Abstract:

Research was conducted in 2015 to investigate the use of sugarcane bagasse as a natural mulch for vegetable production. Louisiana processed 12.8 million tons (11.6 million MT) of sugarcane in 2014, producing 1.5 million tons (1.36 million MT) of raw sugar and an estimated 3 million tons (2.7 million MT) of bagasse. Bagasse is the fibrous material remaining after removing the juice from the sugarcane delivered to the mill. Typically, Louisiana sugarcane factories burn a portion of the bagasse to heat boilers to steam power the factory for milling and sugar processing. The balance of the bagasse is stored at the sugar factory where it accumulates until used for fuel during the next year’s harvest. Sugarcane factory owners, operators, and associated researchers have investigated and employed various uses for the sugarcane bagasse, including pelletizing the bagasse into briquettes. The field experiment compared sugarcane bagasse mulch, black plastic mulch, and no mulch (control) for suitable mulching treatments for squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) production. The experiment included the three mulching treatments, four replications, three rows/plot, 70 in. (1.8 m) row spacing, and 25 ft (7.6 m) plot lengths. Following application of the mulches, yellow squash var. ‘Straightneck’ seeds were direct seeded 1.5 ft (45 cm) apart, the length of each plot. Squash fruit was harvested three times a week for a total of 19 harvests, June 3 to July 15, 2015. Combining the 19 harvests, the plastic mulch produced a greater number of marketable fruit/acre and fruit/plant, which resulted in a 5 and 9 tons/acre (1.8 to 3.3 MT/ha) yield advantage compared to the control and the sugarcane bagasse mulch, respectively. There were no differences among the mulching treatments for unmarketable fruit yields. Further research will investigate the impact of mulching treatments on fruit production across the harvest season, as well as evaluating the influence of allelopathy by the sugarcane bagasse on cucurbit growth.

14. Post-Processing, Energy Production Use of Sugarcane Bagasse Ash

Charles L. Webber III1, Paul M. White Jr.1, Eric C. Petrie1, James W. Shrefler2, and Merritt J. Taylor3

1USDA-ARS, Sugarcane Research Unit, Houma, LA, USA 2Oklahoma State University, Division of Agriculture Sciences and Natural Resources, Cooperative Extension

Service, Durant, OK, USA3Oklahoma State University, Division of Agriculture Sciences and Natural Resources, Department of

Agricultural Economics, Durant, OK, USA

Abstract:

Sugarcane bagasse ash (SBA) is a multi-processed by-product produced from the milling of sugarcane. Bagasse is the fibrous material remaining after removing the sugar, water, and other impurities from the sugarcane delivered to the factory. Louisiana produces an estimated 3 million tons of bagasse each year. In Louisiana, the bagasse is often used as a fuel for running the factories (steam and electricity), processing the sugarcane (fueling boilers), and occasionally selling excess electricity, and as a result producing over 22,500 tons SBA as a by-product annually. Sugarcane factory owners, operators, and associated researchers have investigated and employed various uses for the sugarcane bagasse ash. Research was conducted to investigate the use of SBA as an amendment to soilless planting media for the production of vegetable seedlings. The ash was combined by volume with a commercial soilless growing media into 5 ratios (0%:100%, 25%:75%, 50%:50%, 75%:25%, and 100%:0%, sugarcane bagasse ash and growing media, respectively). Squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) var. ‘Straightneck’ and cantaloupe (Cucumis melo L.) var. ‘Magnum Hybrid Melon’ were planted in each of the five different planting mixtures with four replications, and each experiment was repeated twice. The results indicate that the addition of the ash enhanced squash and cantaloupe seedling growth, depending on the percentage of the ash added to the growth media. Squash plant stalk lengths and plant total fresh weights (stalk, leaves, tops, roots, and total plant) overall responded best at the 75% ash levels. Squash dry weights were consistently greater for all treatments where ash was added to the growth media compared to adding no ash. The 25% and 50% ash media produced the greatest cantaloupe leaf fresh weights. Cantaloupe leaf dry weights followed a similar trend, where the 25% and 50% ash media produced greater plant weights with lesser yields compared to the 75% and 100% ash media. This data suggests that the 75% and 25% ash growth media were suitable potting media combinations for squash and cantaloupe seedling production, respectively. Future research should investigate the addition of starter fertilizers to the sugarcane bagasse ash amended media to further enhance the growth of squash and cantaloupe seedlings. Additional plant species should also be evaluated for their response to sugarcane bagasse ash amended growth media.

15. Unique Cropping Systems for Louisiana Sugarcane

Charles L. Webber III,1 Paul M. White Jr.,1 Caleb Dalley,2 Ryan P. Viator,3 and James W. Shrefler4

1USDA-ARS, Sugarcane Research Unit, Houma, LA, USA2North Dakota State University Hettinger Research Extension Center, Hettinger, ND, USA

3Calvin Viator, Ph.D. and Associates, LLC, Thibodaux, LA, USA4Oklahoma State University, Division of Agriculture Sciences and Natural Resources, Cooperative Extension

Service, Durant, OK, USA

Abstract:

A Louisiana sugarcane field is typically replanted every 4 years due to declining yields and, although it is a costly process, it is both a necessity and an opportunity to maximize the financial return during the next four year cropping cycle. Fallow planting systems (FPS) during the fallow period prior to planting sugarcane has the potential to influence not only the following sugarcane crop, but the economics of the production system as a whole. Research was conducted at the USDA-ARS, Sugarcane Research Unit at Houma, LA to determine the impact of unique FPS on sugarcane production. The experiment included seven treatments; two FPS crops, kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) and cowpeas (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.), three FPS harvest treatments for each FPS crop, and a control. The experiment had four replications. The kenaf and cowpeas were planted on 8 May 2013. The three FPS harvest treatments included the removal of the FPS crop at 50 days after planting (DAP), the removal of the harvested FPS crop at 100 DAP, and lastly, cutting the FPS crop at 100 DAP and incorporating the plant material into the soil prior to sugarcane planting. The control treatment did not have a FPS crop. Sugarcane variety HoCP 96-540 was planted on 26 August 2013, 110 days after planting the FPS crops. The plant cane was harvested on 17 November 2015. Although the sugarcane total recoverable sugar (TRS) (kg/MT) was greater with the kenaf cover-crop treatment 50 DAP (120 kg/MT) compared to the cowpea treatment 50 DAP (111 kg/MT) and the cowpea 100 DAP with the residue incorporated (112 kg/ha), none of the FPS crop treatments were significantly better or worse than the control (no FPS crop). The average values for the sugarcane production factors across all treatments were 95,700 plants/ha (plant population), 112 MT/ha (sugarcane yield), 114 kg/MT (sugar yield per metric

tonne of sugarcane), and 12,841 kg/ha (sugar yield per hectare). The results demonstrate the potential use of these alternative FPS crops during the fallow period prior to planting sugarcane without adversely affecting the plant cane yields.

16. Model Study on Extraction of Both Fermentable Sugars and Non-structural Carbohydrate from Sweet Sorghum Using a Diffusion Process

Nana Baah Appiah-Nkansah,1,2 K. Zhang,1 W. Rooney,3 and D. Wang2

1IGERT Trainee in Biorefining2 Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA

3 Department of Soil and Crop Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA

Abstract:

Sweet sorghum stores a high concentration of soluble sugars in its stalk and produces grain in the panicle. This grain represents a significant amount of starch. The ethanol industry currently uses sugarcane processing methods for sweet sorghum; however, sweet sorghum differs from sugarcane in that sweet sorghum produces significant quantities of grain which is predominantly starch. The objective of this research was to increase ethanol production from sweet sorghum by fully utilizing all fermentable sugars which include starch in the grain and nonstructural carbohydrates in the stalk. The diffusion process was utilized to extract fermentable sugars and nonstructural carbohydrates from chopped sweet sorghum biomass and grains. Response surface methodology (RSM) was applied to optimize diffusion conditions and to explore effects of diffusion time, diffusion temperature, ratio of sweet sorghum grain to total biomass on starch-to-sugar efficiency, and total sugar recovery from sweet sorghum. RSM results showed that starch conversion efficiency and sugar recovery efficiency of 96% and 98.5%, respectively, were achieved at an optimized time of 114.9 min, temperature of 95 ◦C, and 22% grain loading.

17. Use of High Performance Activated Carbon in Soft Drink Bottling Plants

Fernanda Kolling

Carbo-Solutions International, Berlin, Germany

Abstract:

This poster presents the results obtained during a plant trial at a Coca-Cola bottler plant in Brazil and the economic assessment corresponding to the results achieved during the trial. The main objective of the trial was to evaluate the performance of activated carbon RFB-SE when applied to the sugar syrup purification process. This represents an important part of the soda drink process. The conclusions of the trial were outstanding: the carbon dosage was reduced approximately by 60% as compared to the former process. With these encouraging results in the first trial it was possible to go to the second stage, consisting of using CarboUA activated carbon to treat high color sugar, thus generating an even larger economic benefit by reducing the cost of the sugar processed. By using CarboUA activated carbon it is possible to obtain high quality syrup with economical and operational benefits, therefore optimizing the purification process at the bottler’s plant.

18. Improving the Phosphatation Clarification Process in a Sugar Refinery: Increased Production Efficiency and Improved Quality of the Final Product

H. Tobar,1 W. León,1 A.M. Jiménez,2 L. Jaramillo,2 C.A. Donado,2 and E.M. Sarir3

1Ingenio Providencia, Cauca, Colombia2Carbo-Solutions International, Cali, Colombia

3President & CEO Carbo-Solutions International, Los Angeles, CA, USA

Abstract:

This technical poster presents the implementation of supplemental aids for sugar liquor clarification process at a Colombian sugar refinery, with the aim of improving the efficiency of daily production. It was possible to observe the improvement in the quality of the final liquor. The color removal achieved was 54%, which led to the optimization of sugar recovery in the pans, increasing the liquor/syrup rate to 50/50%. Also, a 42% reduction was achieved in the molasses returned to raw house and the refined sugar production efficiency was improved by 6%. Additionally, the improvements in the phosphatation process allowed to reduce the chemical consumption (ppm) and the production cost ($/QQ).

19. The Use of High Performance Color Precipitants in Raw Syrup and Maseccuites for Direct White Sugar Production

F. Marin,1 W. León,1, A.M. Jiménez2, L. Jaramillo,2 C.A. Donado,2 B. Pabon,2 E.M. Sarir3

1Ingenio Providencia, Cauca, Colombia2Carbo-Solutions International, Cali, Colombia

3President & CEO Carbo-Solutions International, Los Angeles, CA, USA

Abstract:

High Performance Adsorbents (HPA) were developed as an alternative in the production of direct white sugar (<150 IU) without using additional operations such as remelting or refining. This new technology offers great advantages, improved sugar quality, increased sucrose recovery and energy balance. This product has been used in raw syrup and maseccuites of a sugar mill in Colombia.