Converting tequila vinasse diluted with tequila process water into microalgae-yeast flocs and dischargeable effluent

Area of Science:

• Environmental Biotechnology
• Waste Valorization
• Microalgal Cultivation

Background:

• Tequila production generates significant wastewater, primarily dark-colored vinasse.
• Vinasse presents disposal challenges but also contains organic compounds suitable for bioprocessing.
• Valorizing vinasse can mitigate environmental impact and create valuable co-products.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a method for adding value to tequila vinasse.
• To produce microalgae-yeast biomass using vinasse as a substrate.
• To optimize biomass production and facilitate harvesting through flocculation.

Main Methods:

• Batch cultivation experiments were conducted using vinasse diluted with tequila process water.
• Microalgae-yeast flocs (MaY-flocs) were developed in a sequencing batch reactor (SBR).
• Response surface methodology was employed to optimize nutrient enrichment and vinasse concentration.

Main Results:

• A 10% v/v vinasse concentration yielded the highest biomass productivity in batch experiments.
• The MaY-floc SBR system achieved doubled biomass productivity compared to batch reactors.
• Optimal conditions identified were 150 mg N-TA L⁻¹ enrichment and 5.9% v/v vinasse.

Conclusions:

• The MaY-floc SBR system is a novel and effective technology for treating tequila wastewater.
• This process successfully produces settleable microalgae-yeast biomass.
• The produced biomass shows potential for applications in aquaculture feed.