Study of the vinasse electrocoagulation process using aluminum electrodes

Abstract

This work is part of an investigation accomplished at the Universidad de Oriente, in search of solutions that would allow obtaining the most feasible operational conditions, which technically and economically influence the vinasse electrocoagulation process using aluminum foil electrodes. The vinasse used in this work is acquired as residual from the process to obtain ethyl alcohol.  Experimental tests were carried out to determine the current density, the electrolysis time and the pH of the solution. In the study of the electrocoagulation process, the color determination was applied as a vinasse quality’s parameter and to monitor the effectiveness of this process, regarding contamination and obtaining solid inhibitors of corruption. Once determined these conditions, a preliminary economic analysis was made to determine the operational cost expressed in Cuban pesos per tons of solids removed.