2.5. Fermentation tests at pilot scale
The process developed at laboratory scale was transferred to a
pilot scale plant. Fermentations were carried out in two bioreactors
with a total capacity of 1 m3 each. Molasses was collected directly
with 20–30 Brix, before the concentration step to 80 Brix. One of
the tanks was used for storing the must and the other for inoculum
preparation and fermentation. The process was carried out as batch
and fed-batch. For the batch process, biomass (pressed yeast) was
diluted with molasses and, after homogenization, the tank was
filled with molasses to 80% of its capacity. For the fed-batch process,
biomass was diluted in water and molasses was fed at the
flow rate of 200 L/h (feeding time 4 h).