Process for purification of low grade sugar syrups using nanofiltration

Abstract

A nanofiltration process for obtaining sucrose uses a feed syrup, such as molasses, that comprises sucrose and no less than about 2% by weight invert sugars (on a dry solids basis). The nanofiltration produces a permeate and retentate. The nanofiltration permeate will comprise invert sugars that have passed from the feed through the nanofiltration membrane, and preferably will also comprise ash from the feed. The nanofiltration retentate has a higher concentration of sucrose and a lower concentration of invert sugars than the feed syrup. Sucrose can then be crystallized from the nanofiltration retentate. The reduction of the invert content in the syrup facilitates crystallization and thus enhances sucrose recovery.

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