Abstract
Sunflower heads are a promising source of pectin which is naturally low in methoxyl groups. As a pretreatment before pectin extraction, the heads must be washed with water to remove pigments and other impurities. Previous washing studies were limited to small (= 100 g) single-stage batch tests. The objective of this study was to analyze the effects of temperature or water-to-solids ratio on pigment removal and on pectin loss in a bench-scale continuous, countercurrent washing unit. Temperature and water-to-solids ratio ranged from 45 to 75°C and 12 to 35 g/g, respectively. The solids flow rate was 4.6 g/min and solids residence time was 15 min. The relationship of pigment removal to water-to-solids ratio was fitted to a nonlinear equation by least squares. Continuous washing conditions were identified which consumed less water, yet achieved more pigment removal compared to batch washing. Thus, continuous washing should reduce wastewater treatment costs.
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