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Published on: July 20, 2021
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Vinasse processing by electrodialysis combined with nanofiltration: emphasis on process optimization and
Franciele Plotasio Duarte1, Ana Flávia Rezende Silva2, Lisete Celina Lange2
1Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Federal Center of Technological Education of Minas Gerais, P.O. Box, 30.421-169, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Summary
Electrodialysis and nanofiltration effectively treat vinasse, a waste product, by removing potassium for fertilizer production. This process enhances soil health and reduces the need for chemical inputs in agriculture.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Environmental Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
Background:
- Vinasse, a byproduct of ethanol distillation, poses environmental challenges due to its high organic load, acidity, and salinity.
- Direct application of vinasse to agricultural soils can lead to salinization, soil acidification, fertility loss, and nutrient leaching.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the use of electrodialysis (ED) and nanofiltration (NF) for treating vinasse.
- To recover potassium from vinasse for fertilizer production and recondition the electrolyte.
- To optimize NF conditions for efficient vinasse treatment and potassium recovery.
Main Methods:
- Electrodialysis (ED) was employed to remove potassium from vinasse.
- Nanofiltration (NF) was used to concentrate potassium from the ED cathode concentrate.
- Design of experiments (DOE) was utilized to optimize NF operating parameters (pressure, flow rate, dilution factor).
Main Results:
- Optimal NF conditions were determined as 6 bar pressure, 1.8 L min⁻¹ flow, and a 1.6× feed dilution factor.
- The NF permeate showed high concentrations of potassium (90%) and magnesium (84%).
- Significant reductions in magnesium sulfate (139,450,988 kg/year) and distilled water (5,019 m³/year) demand were achieved.
- Fertigation rates could be increased by approximately 400% without negatively impacting crops, soil, or groundwater.
Conclusions:
- ED and NF offer a sustainable method for vinasse treatment and resource recovery.
- Recovered potassium from vinasse can be utilized as a valuable input for the fertilizer industry.
- This integrated treatment process improves agricultural sustainability by enabling enhanced fertigation and reducing chemical fertilizer demand.
