Abstract
Steady consumption of beer results in a steady output of residues, i.e., brewer’s spent grain (BSG). Its valorization, using hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) seems sensible. However, a significant knowledge gap regarding the variability of this residue and its influence on the valorization process and its potential use in biorefineries exists. This study attempted to fill this gap by characterization of BSG in conjunction with the main product (beer), taking into accounts details of the brewing process. Moreover, different methods to assess the performance of HTC were investigated. Overall, the differences in terms of the fuel properties of both types of spent grain were much less stark, in comparison to the differences between the respective beers. The use of HTC as a pretreatment of BSG for subsequent use as a biorefinery feedstock can be considered beneficial. HTC was helpful in uniformization and improvement of the fuel properties. A significant decrease in the oxygen content and O/C ratio and improved grindability was achieved. The Weber method proved to be feasible for HTC productivity assessment for commercial installations, giving satisfactory results for most of the cases, contrary to traditional ash tracer method, which resulted in significant overestimations of the mass yield.
Highlights
Beer is a beverage which can be characterized by a reasonably steady consumption in OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development) countries [1]
It could be attributed to the various malt composition in both beers and mostly thanks to differences in yeasts used for production
It should not be overlooked that higher and richer content of aroma compounds could be found in experimental beers, in comparison to the one produced with the industrial brewing process
Summary
Beer is a beverage which can be characterized by a reasonably steady consumption in OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development) countries [1]. As the OECD consists of developed countries, where a reasonably steady financial situation of citizens can be reasonably assumed, it seems reasonable to assume a steady output of residues, such as spent grain, as a consequence of this consumption. This residue is mainly used as fodder in agriculture [2]. There are attempts to enrich food products with spent grains. There have been trials with sausages [4]
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