Project Number: 6435-41000-103-08
Project Type: Trust

Start Date: May 01, 2012
End Date: Jan 30, 2014

Objective:
To develop a factory method to measure carry-over activity in raw sugars and then to test if there is any carry-over activity in the raw sugars produced in the 2011. Also continue a factory study started in 2011 at Alma factory, Louisiana, to ascertain the dosage limit of high temperature stable amylase from Bacillus licheniformis before carry-over activity occurs in raw sugar. Polysaccharide analyses of high viscosity factory products will also be conducted to ascertain the actual action of the amylase.

Approach:
A large number of enzyme companies will be contacted to find more concentrated and cheaper amylases for the Louisiana sugarcane industry, and their relative activities measured. The effect of storage time (up to 6 months) on amylase activity will also be measured. Polysaccharide analysis will be undertaken by Dr. Greg Cote at USDA-ARS-NCAUR in Peoria, IL. The viscosity of massecuite and molasses will be measured with an oscillatory deformation rheometer. Starch will be measured using the iodometric method used at the refinery. A Phadebus® (cross linked starch that turns blue in the presence of amylase and water) method to test stains in clothing for amylase activity from saliva will be used as a start to develop a method to measure carryover amylase activity in raw sugars. For the factory study, 0, 5, 8, 11, 14, 18 and 21 ppm Bacillus licheniformis amylase will be dosed into the flash heated limed juice (FHLJ) just before entering the clarifier at Alma factory. For every dose level studied, at least six samples of FHLJ and clarified juice (CJ) will be taken every 20 min, taking into the 97 min Retention Time (Rt) in the clarifier. Syrup will also be collected and crystallized at the USDA-ARS-SRRC pilot plant. Syrups, and raw sugars from both the factory and pilot plant will be checked for carry-over amylase activity.