PRODUCTION OF CITRIC ACID FROM CANE MOLASSES ON A SEMI-PILOT SCALE

Abstract

Up to 59.73% yield and 69% conversion coefficient of citric acid were obtained on using Naga-Hammade or Abou-Korkas black strap cane molasses. The molasses was simply clarified by centrifugation and supplemented with 0.2% NH₄NO₃. Methanol was better than ethanol, and 2.5% methanol was added before inoculation. Inoculation was performed by spraying the spores over the surface of the fermentation medium. Stainless steel trays proved to be resistant to prolonged use against deformation. Addition of potassium ferrocyanide in the presence of 2.5% methanol did not increase the yield of the acid. In the absence of methanol, addition of the ferrocyanide at a concentration of 0.15% doubles the yield of the acid.