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Corn ethanol production employs an innovative process that converts corn starch into sugar, which, through fermentation and distillation, is transformed into biofuel, maximizing efficiency by using byproducts for animal feed and energy.
Corn ethanol is produced through an innovative process which begins with grinding the corn, transforming the grains into a fine flour. This is then mixed with water and enzymes, starting the breakdown of starch into sugar. After converting the starch, the mixture goes through cooking and fermentation, where the sugar is transformed into alcohol.
Finally, ethanol is extracted through distillation, resulting in an efficient and sustainable biofuel. During the process, all by-products, such as fibers and oils, are used for other purposes, such as animal feed and biodiesel production, ensuring almost full use of the corn.
Step by step corn ethanol production is entirely sustainable and automated
This detailed corn ethanol production process is a clear example of a circular economy, where each component of corn is valued. After grinding and enzymatic hydrolysis, where starch is broken down into simpler sugars, fermentation follows, a critical step where sugars are converted into ethanol by the action of yeast. This process is similar to that used in the production of alcoholic beverages, but optimized to maximize ethanol production.
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During distillation, ethanol is separated from the other substances present in the mixture, resulting in a pure and efficient fuel. The sustainability of the process is reinforced by the use of the waste generated: the remaining fibers and solids are transformed into high-quality animal feed, while the extracted oil can be used in the production of biodiesel.
Energy efficiency and waste reduction in Mato Grosso
In Lucas do Rio Verde, Mato Grosso, known for leading the Brazilian agroindustry, the production of corn ethanol gains prominence. The state, which generates more than R$200 billion annually, is now the stage for a highly efficient process that not only produces ethanol, but also animal feed and mineral oil for biodiesel.
Corn ethanol production incorporates energy efficiency and waste reduction practices. The use of biogas, produced from process by-products, such as animal manure, minimizes dependence on fossil fuels and contributes to a cleaner and more renewable production chain. This closed cycle of production and consumption demonstrates not only the viability of corn ethanol as an alternative biofuel, but also its role in fostering sustainable agricultural and industrial systems.
What about the main raw material for ethanol?
The raw material, second harvest corn, previously seen as a mere preparation for the next soybean plantation, now acquires new value. Transported in large quantities, it is processed in a plant where each grain is valued. In production, corn starch is transformed into sugar, fermented and distilled to become ethanol, while by-products are used for animal feed and electricity production.
This industry not only exemplifies the efficiency in the use of resources, transforming almost 100% of corn into useful products, but also highlights the integration of sustainability in the production cycle. Biogas generated from waste is converted into energy, feeding the system and contributing to environmental sustainability.
Biofuel in Brazil is growing more and more
Biofuel in Brazil, such as corn ethanol, is a renewable energy source that stands out for its ability to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Corn ethanol falls into this category as a sustainable alternative, produced through the processing and fermentation of sugars present in corn.
The production of biofuel from corn has various environmental and economic advantages. Ecologically, it contributes to reducing pollutant emissions, as the CO₂ released during the burning of ethanol is compensated by the carbon absorbed by the corn during its growth, creating a more balanced carbon cycle. Economically, it promotes energy diversification and can boost the local economy, especially in agricultural regions.
