System and method for separating high value by-products from grains used for alcohol production
US9732302B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 5, 2011 |
| Grant date | Aug 15, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 5, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02W30/74
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Systems and methods are provided for separating high value by-products, such as oil and/or germ, from grains used for alcohol production. In one embodiment, a method for separating by-products from grains used for alcohol production includes, subjecting milled grains to liquefaction to provide a liquefied starch solution including fiber, protein, and germ. The germ is separated from the liquefied starch solution. The separated germ is ground, e.g., to a particle size less than 50 microns, to release oil to provide a germ/oil mixture. Then, prior to fermentation, the oil is separated from the germ/oil mixture to yield an oil by-product. The pH of the germ/oil mixture can be adjusted to about 8 to about 10.5 and/or cell wall breaking enzymes or chemicals may be added to help release oil from the germ. In one example, the oil yield is greater than 1.0 lb/Bu.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.