Development of natural flocculant from okra for sugarcane juice clarification

• Grant number: 16/07624-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: November 01, 2016
• End date: October 31, 2017
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Agronomy
• Principal Investigator: Gustavo Henrique Gravatim Costa
• Grantee: Letícia Murador Blanco
• Host Institution: Pró-Reitoria de Pesquisa e Pós-Graduação. Universidade do Sagrado Coração (USC). Bauru , SP, Brazil

Abstract

In the sugar production process uses acrylamide-based polymers, because its assist the removal of interfering impurities of the product, such as color, turbidity and ash. However, this input may be retained in the sugar crystals, with used in excess. It should be noted that acrylamide has neurotoxic and carcinogenic actions, in addition to affecting the fertility of the human being. In this sense, it is necessary to search for products that can replace the current polymers used for agro-industrial units. In this context, we highlight the products extracted from natural sources, such as okra extract that presents a protein named mucilage. This protein is anionic and promotes the flocculating of impurities. Its effect is already known for water treatment, however it is necessary the study the behavior in sugarcane juice. Thus the goal of this study is to evaluate the effects of okra extract as an aid to clarification of cane juice. First they will be tested different methods to extract okra mucilage, and the more efficient will be used in the assays. Next, the extract with contain higher protein level willl be subjected to dosage test in sugarcane juice, evaluating the clarification process and the clarified juice. The best dosage will be applied in new decanting process, comparing it with commercial synthetic flocculant and commercial organic flocculant.