Promising superabsorbent hydrogel based on carboxymethyl cellulose and polyacrylic acid: synthesis, characterization, and applications in fertilizer engineering.

The combination of hydrogel and fertilizer as slow release fertilizer hydrogel (SRFH) has become one of the most promising materials to overcome the shortcomings of conventional fertilizer by decreasing fertilizer loss rate, supplying nutrients sustainably, and lowering the frequency of irrigation. The hydrogel based on carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and polyacrylic acid (PAA) (CMC/PAA) was synthesized. All materials, Vinasse, hydrogel (CMC/PAA) and (Vinasse/CMC-PAA) were characterized by FTIR, XRD, and SEM. The formed hydrogel was applied to control the salinity of Vinasse to use it as a cheap and economical fertilizer. The results showed that using the prepared hydrogel with Vinasse (V/CMC-PAA) as a slow-release organic fertilizer decreased the EC value through the first six hours from 1.77 to 0.35 mmohs/cm. Also, using V/CMC-PAA can control and keep the potassium as fertilizer for 50 days. The productivity per feddan from the sugar cane crop increased by about 15%, and the number of irrigations decreased from 5 to 4 times.

Unlocking aroma in three types of vinasse fish by sensomics approach.

Vinasse fish (VF), a traditional Chinese food, is unique in flavor. However, the key aroma compounds influencing consumer acceptance of VF remain unclear. In this study, the key aroma compounds in three types of VF were explored by a sensomics approach. The results indicated that a total of 50 aroma compounds were quantified, of which 22 compounds exhibited odor activity values ≥1 were key aroma contributors. Eleven key aroma compounds were further confirmed by recombination and omission experiments. Ethyl hexanoate, 1-octen-3-one, and trans-anethole were mutual key aromas, while eugenol, ethyl heptanoate, (2E)-2-nonenal, and hexanal were distinct aroma markers. Particularly, ethyl heptanoate, γ-nonalactone, and eugenol were newly identified as key aroma compounds in VF. Overall, this study revealed the key aroma compounds and their differences in three types of vinasse fish, which will provide profound insights for comprehensively exploring the formation and target regulation of unique flavor in vinasse fish.

Potassium silicate and vinasse enhance biometric characteristics of perennial sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum) under greenhouse conditions.

An effective strategy for enhancing fruit production continuity during extended sweet pepper season involves adopting innovative biostimulants such as potassium silicate (PS) and vinasse. Adjusting PS and vinasse concentrations are crucial for maintaining the balance between vegetative and fruit growth, particularly in sweet pepper with a shallow root system, to sustain fruiting over prolonged season. However, the interaction between PS and vinasse and the underlying physiological mechanisms that extend the sweet pepper season under greenhouse conditions remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the impact of PS and vinasse treatments on the yield and biochemical constituents of perennial pepper plants cultivated under greenhouse conditions. For two consecutive seasons [2018/2019 and 2019/2020], pepper plants were sprayed with PS (0, 0.5, and 1 g/l) and drenched with vinasse (0, 1, 2, and 3 l/m3). To estimate the impact of PS and vinasse on the growth, yield, and biochemical constituents of pepper plants, fresh and dry biomass, potential fruit yield, and some biochemical constituents were evaluated. Results revealed that PS (0.5 g/l) coupled with vinasse (3 l/m3) generated the most remarkable enhancement, in terms of plant biomass, total leaf area, total yield, and fruit weight during both growing seasons. The implementation of vinasse at 3 l/m3 with PS at 0.5 and 1 g/l demonstrated the most pronounced augmentation in leaf contents (chlorophyll index, nitrogen and potassium), alongside improved fruit quality, including total soluble solid and ascorbic acid contents, of extended sweet pepper season. By implementing the optimal combination of PS and vinasse, growers can significantly enhance the biomass production while maintaining a balance in fruiting, thereby maximizing the prolonged fruit production of superior sweet pepper under greenhouse conditions.

Production and Chemical Characterization of Silage from Saccharine Sorghum Fertirrigated with Sugarcane Vinasse.

BACKGROUND: Distillery vinasse is one of the promising bio-fertilizers, as it contains significant amounts of essential chemical elements, allied with sorghum that is widely used in the diet of ruminant animals and has been considered as an alternative to the production of other cereals or forages. This study aimed to evaluate saccharin sorghum silage from fertilization with vinasse. METHODS: The research was conducted using the BRS-511, CR-1339, and CR-1342 geno-types. The silage was held for 170 days after sowing, with experimental design in blocks with triple factorial (genotypes x fertilization x inoculation) totaling 54 installments. At 95 days, the silos were opened for sample collection and analysis bromatological analysis. RESULTS: The results indicate the primary source of variation was genotype, characterizing them with different potentials in productivity and better results for BRS-511, CR-1339, and CR-1342. The bromatological results indicate good quality for CR-1339 and CR-1342 hybrids, however, better digestability for BRS-511. There was no observable difference between the factors of fertilization. The inoculation additive assists in the reduction of lignin appears to be high. PCA analysis showed differences between cultivars (BRS-511, CR-1339, and CR-1342) and fertili-zation. However, the PCAs showed the genotypes show similar results with conventional ferti-lization and sugarcane vinasse. CONCLUSION: The study reflected the possibility of producing sweet sorghum silage with soil sugarcane vinasse fertilization as fertilizer.

Mix-method toolbox for monitoring greenhouse gas production and microbiome responses to soil amendments.

In this study, we adopt an interdisciplinary approach, integrating agronomic field experiments with soil chemistry, molecular biology techniques, and statistics to investigate the impact of organic residue amendments, such as vinasse (a by-product of sugarcane ethanol production), on soil microbiome and greenhouse gas (GHG) production. The research investigates the effects of distinct disturbances, including organic residue application alone or combined with inorganic N fertilizer on the environment. The methods assess soil microbiome dynamics (composition and function), GHG emissions, and plant productivity. Detailed steps for field experimental setup, soil sampling, soil chemical analyses, determination of bacterial and fungal community diversity, quantification of genes related to nitrification and denitrification pathways, measurement and analysis of gas fluxes (N2O, CH4, and CO2), and determination of plant productivity are provided. The outcomes of the methods are detailed in our publications (Lourenço et al., 2018a; Lourenço et al., 2018b; Lourenço et al., 2019; Lourenço et al., 2020). Additionally, the statistical methods and scripts used for analyzing large datasets are outlined. The aim is to assist researchers by addressing common challenges in large-scale field experiments, offering practical recommendations to avoid common pitfalls, and proposing potential analyses, thereby encouraging collaboration among diverse research groups.•Interdisciplinary methods and scientific questions allow for exploring broader interconnected environmental problems.•The proposed method can serve as a model and protocol for evaluating the impact of soil amendments on soil microbiome, GHG emissions, and plant productivity, promoting more sustainable management practices.•Time-series data can offer detailed insights into specific ecosystems, particularly concerning soil microbiota (taxonomy and functions).

Effects of pasture intensification and sugarcane cultivation on non-target species: A realistic evaluation in pesticide-contaminated mesocosms.

Conventional soil management in agricultural areas may expose non-target organisms living nearby to several types of contaminants. In this study, the effects of soil management in extensive pasture (EP), intensive pasture (IP), and sugarcane crops (C) were evaluated in a realistic-field-scale study. Thirteen aquatic mesocosms embedded in EP, IP, and C treatments were monitored over 392 days. The recommended management for each of the areas was simulated, such as tillage, fertilizer, pesticides (i.e. 2,4-D, fipronil) and vinasse application, and cattle pasture. To access the potential toxic effects that the different steps of soil management in these areas may cause, the cladoceran Ceriophania silvestrii was used as aquatic bioindicator, the dicot Eruca sativa as phytotoxicity bioindicator in water, and the dipteran Chironomus sancticaroli as sediment bioindicator. Generalized linear mixed models were used to identify differences between the treatments. Low concentrations of 2,4-D (<97 µg L-1) and fipronil (<0.21 µg L-1) in water were able to alter fecundity, female survival, and the intrinsic rate of population increase of C. silvestrii in IP and C treatments. Similarly, the dicot E. sativa had germination, shoot and root growth affected mainly by 2,4-D concentrations in the water. For C. sancticarolli, larval development was affected by the presence of fipronil (<402.6 ng g-1). The acidic pH (below 5) reduced the fecundity and female survival of C. silvestrii and affected the germination and growth of E. sativa. Fecundity and female survival of C. silvestrii decrease in the presence of phosphorus-containing elements. The outcomes of this study may improve our understanding of the consequences of exposure of freshwater biota to complex stressors in an environment that is rapidly and constantly changing.

Unlocking Agronutrient Resources: Sorption Strategies for sugar-energy industry waste.

Vinasse and ash from sugarcane bagasse (SCB) are key byproducts in the sugar-energy industry. Vinasse is nutrient-rich but environmentally challenging, while sugarcane bagasse ash (SCBA) offers excellent adsorbent for treating effluents. This work aims to assess the effectiveness of SCBA in removing nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) nutrients from Vinasse. Simulated standard solutions of K2SO4 and (NH4)2HPO4 were used to mimic the nutrient concentrations in Vinasse and optimize experimental parameters such as adsorbent mass and contact time. Kinetic and isotherm models were also applied to elucidate the underlying adsorption mechanisms. Structural, morphological, and thermal analyses revealed the micro-mesoporous and heterogeneous nature of SCBA, primarily composed of SiO2 (quartz and cristobalite). The sorption assessment indicated the ideal conditions involved lower SCBA masses (2.5 g) and 6 h of contact time for the simulated standard solutions. The replicated conditions for Vinasse (at an adjusted sorption time of 24 h) demonstrated nutrient sorption and pH correction of the Vinasse, attributed to the alkaline nature of SCBA. Analysis of the sorption kinetic models for K+ and NH4+ revealed that SCBA interacts diffusively with the environment, not necessarily controlled by adsorption on active sites, indicating non-uniform characteristics. The sorption isotherms for K+ and NH4+ showed the non-linearized Freundlich model was the most suitable, indicating the adsorption sites with varying energy levels and a multilayer sorption process. In conclusion, we successfully demonstrated the sorption of nutrients from Vinasse by SCBA, enhancing the value of these residues and mitigating their environmental impact when used in agricultural applications.

Effect of the addition of an inorganic carbon source on the degradation of sotol vinasse by Rhodopseudomonastelluris.

The difficulty of the microbial conversion process for the degradation of sotol vinasse due to its high acidity and organic load makes it an effluent with high potential for environmental contamination, therefore its treatment is of special interest. Calcium carbonate is found in great abundance and has the ability to act as a neutralizing agent, maintaining the alkalinity of the fermentation medium as well as, through its dissociation, releasing CO2 molecules that can be used by phototrophic CO2-fixing bacteria. This study evaluated the use of Rhodopseudomonas telluris (OR069658) for the degradation of vinasse in different concentrations of calcium carbonate (0, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10% m/v). The results showed that calcium carbonate concentration influenced volatile fatty acids (VFA), alkalinity and pH, which in turn influenced changes in the degradation of chemical oxygen demand (COD), phenol and sulfate. Maximum COD and phenol degradation values of 83.16 ± 0.15% and 90.16 ± 0.30%, respectively, were obtained at a calcium carbonate concentration of 4%. At the same time, the lowest COD and phenol degradation values of 52.01 ± 0.38% and 68.21 ± 0.81%, respectively, were obtained at a calcium carbonate concentration of 0%. The data obtained also revealed to us that at high calcium carbonate concentrations of 6-10%, sotol vinasse can be biosynthesized by Rhodopseudomonas telluris (OR069658) to VFA, facilitating the degradation of sulfates. The findings of this study confirmed the potential for using Rhodopseudomonas telluris (OR069658) at a calcium carbonate concentration of 4% as an appropriate alternative treatment for sotol vinasse degradation.

Impact of some amendments on kinetics of leaching dissolved organic carbon and ammonium in calcareous sandy soil under vinasse addition.

The access of vinasse leachates to water bodies and groundwater exacerbates environmental problems, especially eutrophication. Therefore, a column experiment was performed to examine the effect of adding zeolite (ZL), bone char (BC), and wood chips biochar (WCB) in the presence of vinasse on carbon dioxide (CO2) emission, leaching dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and ammonium (NH4+) in calcareous sandy soil, as well as studying the kinetics of leaching dissolved organic carbon and ammonium. This column experiment contains four treatments: soil alone (CK), soil + zeolite (SZL), soil + bone char (SBC), and soil + wood chips biochar (SWCB). These amendments were applied to the soil at a level of 4%. Vinasse was added to all treatments at a level of 13 mL per column. The leached total cumulative DOC and total cumulative soluble ammonium amounts decreased significantly with applying ZL, BC, and WCB compared with the soil alone. The effectiveness of these amendments in lowering the total cumulative DOC leaching is in the order of SBC > SWCB > SZL > CK. However, the effectiveness of these amendments in decreasing the total cumulative NH4+ leaching is in the order of SZL > SWCB > SBC > CK. The rate constant (k) of DOC leaching decreased significantly with the application of bone char compared to soil alone treatment. In the presence of vinasse, the apparent half-life of leached DOC from the soil was 8.1, 12.9, 36.7, and 15.5 days for soil CK, SZL, SBC, and SWCB treatments, respectively. Half-life values of leached soluble ammonium from the soil in the presence of vinasse addition were 10.1, 39.5, 28.5, and 37.9 days for CK, SZL, SBC, and SWCB treatments, respectively. Amending soil with BC increased significantly the phosphorus availability, however, applying ZL and BC caused a significant increase in the available potassium in calcareous sandy soil compared to the control treatment. According to these results, it is recommended not to add vinasse alone to sandy soils, but it is preferred to be co-applied with BC amendment at the level of 4% better than ZL and WCB. This would decrease leaching DOC and ammonium to the water table and groundwater as well as enhance nutrient retention in the soil, which in turn, plays a vital role in reducing the harmful effect of vinasse and improving soil fertility.

Carbon and Nutrients from Organic Residues Modulate the Dynamics of Prokaryotic and Fungal Communities.

Inputs of carbon (C) and nutrients from organic residues may select specific microbes and shape the soil microbial community. However, little is known about the abiotic filtering of the same residues with different nutrient concentrations applied to the soil. In our study, we explored how applying organic residue, vinasse, as fertilizer in its natural state (V) versus its concentrated form (CV) impacts soil microbiota. We conducted two field experiments, evaluating soil prokaryotic and fungal communities over 24 and 45 days with vinasse (V or CV) plus N fertilizer. We used 16S rRNA gene and ITS amplicon sequencing. Inorganic N had no significant impact on bacterial and fungal diversity compared to the control. However, the varying concentrations of organic C and nutrients in vinasse significantly influenced the soil microbiome structure, with smaller effects observed for V compared to CV. Prokaryotic and fungal communities were not correlated (co-inertia: RV coefficient = 0.1517, p = 0.9708). Vinasse did not change the total bacterial but increased the total fungal abundance. A higher C input enhanced the prokaryotic but reduced the fungal diversity. Our findings highlight vinasse's role as an abiotic filter shaping soil microbial communities, with distinct effects on prokaryotic and fungal communities. Vinasse primarily selects fast-growing microorganisms, shedding light on the intricate dynamics between organic residues, nutrient concentrations, and soil microbes.

Biopolymers as a Potential Alternative for the Retention of Pollutants from Vinasse: An In Silico Approach.

Vinasse, a waste from the bioethanol industry, presents a crucial environmental challenge due to its high organic matter content, which is difficult to biodegrade. Currently, no sustainable alternatives are available for treating the amount of vinasse generated. Conversely, biopolymers such as cellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, and chitosan are emerging as an interesting alternative for vinasse control due to their flocculating capacity against several organic compounds. This study seeks to determine the thermodynamic behavior of in silico interactions among three biopolymers (cellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, and chitosan) regarding 15 organic compounds found in vinasse. For this, the Particle Mesh Ewald (PME) method was used in association with the Verlet cutoff scheme, wherein the Gibbs free energy (ΔG) was calculated over a 50 ns simulation period. The findings revealed that cellulose showed a strong affinity for flavonoids like cyanidin, with a maximum free energy of -84 kJ/mol and a minimum of -55 kJ/mol observed with phenolic acids and other flavonoids. In contrast, chitosan displayed the highest interactions with phenolic acids, such as gallic acid, reaching -590 kJ/mol. However, with 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenyl glycol (MHPG), it reached an energy of -70 kJ/mol. The interaction energy for flavonoid ranged from -105 to -96 kJ/mol. Finally, carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) demonstrated an interaction energy with isoquercetin of -238 kJ/mol, while interactions with other flavonoids were almost negligible. Alternatively, CMC exhibited an interaction energy of -124 kJ/mol with MHPG, while it was less favorable with other phenolic acids with minimal interactions. These results suggest that there are favorable interactions for the interfacial sorption of vinasse contaminants onto biopolymers, indicating their potential for use in the removal of contaminants from the effluents of the bioethanol industry.

Vinasse: from a residue to a high added value biopolymer.

This work aimed to study the feasibility of using vinasse for polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) production by Bacillus megaterium. To optimize the culture medium, a Box-Behnken design was employed considering carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (Ph) concentrations as independent variables and PHB productivity as the response variable. The productivity decreased when C or N were increased, probably due to the presence of phenolic compounds and the limitation of N for the production of PHB by Bacillus sp. bacteria. An additional experimental design to optimize the C/N ratio and growing conditions (fermentation time and temperature) was carried out. Fermentation time had a statistically significant effect on PHB productivity reaching 10.6 mg/L h. On the other hand, the variability in physicochemical properties of vinasse samples led to significant differences in PHB productivity. Lower productivity values were obtained when vinasse had higher values of DBO. Therefore, biopolymers production from vinasse is a feasible alternative to valorize this bioethanol by-product.

Attractivity of vinasse spraying to stable flies, Stomoxys calcitrans in a sugarcane area

ABSTRACT: Stable fly (Stomoxys calcitrans) outbreaks have been associated with sugarcane mills in Brazil. This study aimed to evaluate the attractivity of vinasse, a liquid byproduct of ethanol production applied to postharvest sugarcane fields, to adult S. calcitrans. Stable fly abundance was monitored for 21 days in August-September 2014, at a sugarcane mill in the municipality of Nova Alvorada do Sul, state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Following mechanized harvesting of sugarcane and the consequent deposition of large amounts of plant residue (straw) in the field, the study area (13.5ha) was surrounded by 22 sticky cylinder (alsynite) traps. The area was fertigated with vinasse immediately after the traps were placed. Insects caught in the traps were collected daily at 7:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m. and 15:00 p.m. A total of 83,593 specimens of S. calcitrans were caught, of which 5,516 (6.6%) were attracted within the first five hours after vinasse application. The highest number of S. calcitrans was caught in the first week following vinasse application, with a peak on the 4th day (12,818 flies), which was influenced by adverse weather conditions on the previous days. This study confirms that fertigation of sugarcane fields by spraying vinasse after the harvest attracts S. calcitrans, thus quickly increasing their abundance over the days following application.

RESUMO: Surtos da mosca-dos-estábulos (Stomoxys calcitrans) têm sido associados a usinas sucroalcooleiras no Brasil. Este estudo objetivou avaliar a atratividade da aspersão de vinhaça, um subproduto líquido da produção de etanol aplicado após a colheita em áreas canavieiras, a adultos de S. calcitrans. A abundância desta mosca foi monitorada em uma usina de cana-de-açúcar por 21 dias, entre agosto e setembro de 2014, em Nova Alvorada do Sul/MS. Após a colheita mecanizada da cana e consequente deposição de grande quantidade de palha no campo, a área de estudo (13,5ha) foi cercada com 22 armadilhas adesivas cilíndricas (alsynite). Fertirrigação com vinhaça foi iniciada imediatamente após instalação das armadilhas. A coleta das moscas capturadas nas armadilhas foi realizada diariamente às 7:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m. e 15:00 p.m. Foram capturados 83.593 espécimes de S. calcitrans, sendo 5.516 (6,6%) atraídos nas primeiras cinco horas após a aplicação da vinhaça. Maior número de S. calcitrans foi capturado na primeira semana do estudo (53.937 moscas), com pico no 4º dia (12.818 moscas), influenciado pelas condições climáticas adversas ocorridas nos dias anteriores. O presente estudo confirma que o processo de fertirrigação de áreas canavieiras com aspersão de vinhaça após a colheita é atrativo à S. calcitrans, aumentando rapidamente sua abundância nos dias subsequentes à aplicação.

Attractivity of vinasse spraying to stable flies, Stomoxys calcitrans in a sugarcane area / C Stomoxys calcitrans (Diptera: Muscidae), em área canavieira

Stable fly (Stomoxys calcitrans) outbreaks have been associated with sugarcane mills in Brazil. This study aimed to evaluate the attractivity of vinasse, a liquid byproduct of ethanol production applied to postharvest sugarcane fields, to adult S. calcitrans. Stable fly abundance was monitored for 21 days in August-September 2014, at a sugarcane mill in the municipality of Nova Alvorada do Sul, state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Following mechanized harvesting of sugarcane and the consequent deposition of large amounts of plant residue (straw) in the field, the study area (13.5ha) was surrounded by 22 sticky cylinder ("alsynite") traps. The area was fertigated with vinasse immediately after the traps were placed. Insects caught in the traps were collected daily at 7:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m. and 15:00 p.m. A total of 83,593 specimens of S. calcitrans were caught, of which 5,516 (6.6%) were attracted within the first five hours after vinasse application. The highest number of S. calcitrans was caught in the first week following vinasse application, with a peak on the 4th day (12,818 flies), which was influenced by adverse weather conditions on the previous days. This study confirms that fertigation of sugarcane fields by spraying vinasse after the harvest attracts S. calcitrans, thus quickly increasing their abundance over the days following application.(AU)

Surtos da mosca-dos-estábulos (Stomoxys calcitrans) têm sido associados a usinas sucroalcooleiras no Brasil. Este estudo objetivou avaliar a atratividade da aspersão de vinhaça, um subproduto líquido da produção de etanol aplicado após a colheita em áreas canavieiras, a adultos de S. calcitrans. A abundância desta mosca foi monitorada em uma usina de cana-de-açúcar por 21 dias, entre agosto e setembro de 2014, em Nova Alvorada do Sul/MS. Após a colheita mecanizada da cana e consequente deposição de grande quantidade de palha no campo, a área de estudo (13,5ha) foi cercada com 22 armadilhas adesivas cilíndricas ("alsynite"). Fertirrigação com vinhaça foi iniciada imediatamente após instalação das armadilhas. A coleta das moscas capturadas nas armadilhas foi realizada diariamente às 7:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m. e 15:00 p.m. Foram capturados 83.593 espécimes de S. calcitrans, sendo 5.516 (6,6%) atraídos nas primeiras cinco horas após a aplicação da vinhaça. Maior número de S. calcitrans foi capturado na primeira semana do estudo (53.937 moscas), com pico no 4º dia (12.818 moscas), influenciado pelas condições climáticas adversas ocorridas nos dias anteriores. O presente estudo confirma que o processo de fertirrigação de áreas canavieiras com aspersão de vinhaça após a colheita é atrativo à S. calcitrans, aumentando rapidamente sua abundância nos dias subsequentes à aplicação.(AU)

Avaliação do crescimento de micro-organismos fotossintetizantes em fotobiorreator tubular empregando nutrientes provenientes da vinhaça tratada / Evaluation of the growth of photosynthetic microorganisms in tubular photobioreactor using nutrients from treated vinasse

vinhaça é resultante da produção de álcool, após a fermentação do mosto e destilação do vinho. É um resíduo rico em nutrientes, principalmente matéria orgânica, nitrogênio, fósforo e potássio. Para ser despejado em rios e lagos, esse efluente deve passar por tratamentos para remoção desses nutrientes, pois o excesso desses elementos nos corpos hídricos poderia levar a grandes problemas ambientais, de modo que tem sido utilizado em fertirrigação. Microorganismos fotossintetizantes absorvem nutrientes inorgânicos, podendo absorver nutrientes de águas residuais. Se for removida a parte orgânica da vinhaça, a fração inorgânica ou com baixa carga orgânica pode ser a base ou o próprio meio de cultivo destes micro-organismos, que absorvem gás carbônico e sua biomassa é de interesse industrial. Neste contexto, foi estudado o cultivo de Monoraphidium contortum e Synechocystis salina, oriundos de água de mangue, em frascos de Erlenmeyer e em fotobiorreatores tubulares por processo descontínuo, empregando a vinhaça proveniente do tratamento aeróbio (biológico), acoplada a processos físico-químicos, com diferentes diluições. As características físico-químicas das vinhaças tratadas foram avaliadas. Além disso, foram comparados os crescimentos celulares nas diferentes condições experimentais adotadas para o crescimento da microalga M. contortum e da cianobactéria S. salina na vinhaça tratada com e sem diluição. Em cultivos em frascos de Erlenmeyer, em meio proveniente de tratamento biológico, o crescimento celular não diferiu do cultivo em meio padrão, com diluições de 5 e 2 vezes da vinhaça tratada para M. contortum e S. salina, respectivamente. Em fotobiorreator tubular, independente do tratamento ser apenas biológico ou também com carvão ativado, as concentrações celulares máximas (Xm) de M. contortum e S. salina foram da ordem de 1,86x107 células mL-1 e 7,90x106 células mL-1, respectivamente, valores esses menores que os obtidos em meio padrão, com valores de Xm de 2,69x107 células mL-1 e 1,27x106 células mL-1 para M. contortum e S. salina, respectivamente. Em fotobiorreatores tubulares, os teores de mínimos de lipídios de M. contortum e S. salina foram de 33,4 % e 11,0 %, respectivamente. Adicionalmente, os teores mínimos de proteínas da microalga foram de 15,1 % e da cianobactéria foi de 23,2 %

The vinasse is the result of the production of alcohol after the fermentation of the mash and the distillation of the wine. It is a waste rich in nutrients, mainly organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. To be discharged into rivers and lakes, this effluent must be treated in order to remove nutrients, because the excess of these elements in water bodies can lead to major environmental problems, so that it has been used in fertigation. Photosynthetic microorganisms absorb inorganic nutrients and they can absorb nutrients from wastewater. If the organic fraction of vinasse is removed, the inorganic or low organic fraction may be the basis or a medium of cultivation of these microorganisms, which absorb carbon dioxide and its biomass is of industrial interest. In this context, Monoraphidium contortum and Synechocystis salina from mangrove water were cultivated in Erlenmeyer flasks and in tubular photobioreactors by batch process using vinasse from aerobic biological treatment, coupled to physicochemical treatments with different dilutions. The physicochemical characteristics of the treated vinasse were evaluated. In addition, cell growth was compared under different experimental conditions adopted for growth of microalgae M. contortum and cyanobacteria S. salina in vinasse treated with and without dilution. In Erlenmeyer flask cultivations, in medium from the biological treatment, the cell growth was not different of that one in standard medium cultivation, with dilutions of 5 and 2 times the vinasse treated for M. contortum and S. salina, respectively. In the tubular photobioreactor, irrespective if the treatment is only biological or also is carried out treatment with activated charcoal, they were obtained maximum cell concentrations (Xm) of M. contortum and S. salina of 1.86x107 cells mL-1 and 7.90x106 cells. mL-1 , respectively, lower than the standard, whose Xm values were 2.69x107 cells mL-1 and 1.27x106 cells mL-1 for M. contortum and S. salina, respectively. In tubular photobioreactors, the minimum lipid contents of M. contortum and S. salina were 33.4 % and 11.0 %, respectively. In addition, the minimum protein content of microalgae was 15.1 % and cyanobacterium was 23.2 %

Obtaining, characterization and evaluation of two candidate preparations for probiotics developed with agroindustrial waste / Obtención, caracterización y evaluación de dos preparados candidatos a probióticos desarrollados con residuos agroindustriales

ABSTRACT Objective. Obtain, characterize and evaluate two bio-prepares developed from the sugar cane molasses - orange vinasse fermented with yeast and/or lactic acid bacteria. Materials and methods. A completely randomized design was used, with five repeats per treatment. The evaluated treatments were: T1, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Streptococcus thermophilus y T2, the previous bacteria plus Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Kluyveromyces fragilis (L-4 UCLV). The previous mentioned microorganisms were inoculated in a substratum compounded by molasses - vinasse and these were incubated at 37°C for 24 hours. To the bioprepares, physiochemical, microbiological and in vitro tests was made to evaluate the probiotic capacity. Results. Both bioprepares presented a dark brown color, sweet and a pH lesser than 4. The bromatological and microbiologic development were higher (p>0.05) in T2. Both bioprepares the viability was higher than 92%. in vitro tests two bioprepares were resistant to an acid pH, bile salts, broad spectrum of microbial activity and inhibitory effect to E. coli, Salmonella spp. and S. aureus. Conclusions. The bioprepares obtained from sugar cane molasses - orange vinasse fermented with yeast and lactic acid bacteria manifested physiochemical and microbiologic properties appropriated to probiotic products. In in vitro tests, their potential was demonstrated as a probiotic.

RESUMEN Objetivo. Obtener, caracterizar y evaluar dos biopreparados desarrollados a partir de melaza de caña de azúcar - vinaza de naranja fermentados con levaduras y/o bacterias ácido lácticas. Materiales y métodos. Se utilizó un diseño completamente aleatorizado con cinco repeticiones por tratamiento. Los tratamientos evaluados fueron: T1, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Streptococcus thermophilus y T2, las bacterias anteriores más Saccharomyces cerevisiae y Kluyveromyces fragilis (L-4 UCLV). En un sustrato compuesto por melaza- vinaza se inocularon los microorganismos anteriormente mencionados y estos fueron incubados a 37ºC por 24 h. Se les determinaron a los biopreparados los parámetros fisicoquímicos, microbiológico y se realizaron las pruebas in vitro para evaluar la capacidad probiótica. Resultados. Ambos biopreparados presentaron un color marrón oscuro, dulzón y con pH inferior a 4. El comportamiento bromatológicos y microbiológicos fueron mayores (p>0.05) en el T2. En ambos biopreparados la viabilidad fue superior a 92%. En pruebas in vitro, ambos biopreparados fueron resistentes a pH ácido, sales biliares, amplio espectro de actividad antimicrobiana y efecto inhibitorio a la E. coli, Salmonella spp. y S. aureus. Conclusiones. Los biopreparados obtenidos a partir de melaza de caña de azúcar-vinaza de naranja fermentados con levaduras y/o bacterias ácido lácticas demostraron propiedades físicoquímicas, microbiológicas apropiadas para productos probióticos. En las pruebas in vitro, se demostró su efecto potencial como probiótico.

Potassium adsorption in soil cultivated with sugarcane

ABSTRACT Vinasse is a byproduct of the process of distillation of sugarcane juice for the manufacture of sugar and alcohol. Because it is rich in nutrients, mainly potassium (K), is used as fertilizer and applied via fertigation, without concerning for the fate of this compound in the soil. Thus, the objective of the study was to evaluate the interactions of the potassium ion (K+), applied via vinasse in a soil representative of the sugarcane zone of the State of Pernambuco using adsorption isotherms. The methodology was based on physical, chemical and soil mineralogical characterization, as well as equilibrium batch tests, where the experimental curves were fitted by Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models. The results allowed to infer that the Freundlich model showed better fit of the curve in both forms: linear and non-linear (direct fit); the non-linear model was selected due to the values ​​of coefficient of determination (R²). The interaction between potassium and soil occurred mainly with organic matter and the presence of soil kaolinite, because they showed negative ions on the external surface, thereby promoting potassium adsorption. Soil potassium adsorption capacity was higher for the first layer (0-20 cm) and decreased along the depth profile.

Influence of manure concentration as inoculum in anaerobic digestion of vinasse / Influência da concentração de esterco como inóculo na digestão anaeróbia da vinhaça

Vinasse, main residue of the sugarcane industry, has high pollutant content, being subjected to the use in biogas production due to the high content of organic matter non-toxic to microbial action. For a consolidated process, it is necessary to study parameters that influence the process, in which the amount of inoculum is one of the major factors in the biological process of biogas production. This study investigated the influence of the amount of manure as inoculum (0.5 to 5.5%) during the biodigestion process, evaluating variables such as chemical oxygen demand (COD), pH, biogas production, methane concentration, total solids and total phosphorus and nitrogen contents, as well as microbiological analysis in the sludge remaining in the digester. Biodigestion occurred normally, with hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 20 days, with an acidogenic phase, subsequent stabilization of pH and biogas production. The vinasse had COD and total solids reduced during biodigestion by around 67 and 40%, respectively. Biogas production was increased after the fifth day. Among the three studied conditions, there was no significant increase in efficiency of inoculum use and it can be used the lowest amount, 0.5 % (m v-1).

A vinhaça, principal resíduo da indústria sucroalcooleira, possui alto teor poluente, sendo passível seu uso na produção de biogás devido ao grande teor de matéria orgânica não tóxica à ação microbiana. Para que haja um processo consolidado, é necessário estudar parâmetros que influem em seu processo, sendo a quantidade de inóculo um dos principais fatores no processo biológico de produção de biogás. Este estudo verificou a influência da quantidade de esterco bovino como inóculo (de 0,5 a 5,5%) durante o processo de biodigestão, avaliando variáveis como demanda química de oxigênio (DQO), pH, produção de biogás, concentração de metano, sólidos totais e teores de fósforo total e de nitrogênio total, além de análises microbiológicas no lodo restante no biodigestor. A biodigestão aconteceu normalmente, com um tempo de retenção hidráulica (TRH) de 20 dias, verificando-se a fase acidogênica, posterior estabilização do pH e produção de biogás. A vinhaça teve seus parâmetros de DQO e de sólidos totais diminuídos durante a biodigestão, em torno de 67 e 40%, respectivamente. Houve crescente produção de biogás após o quinto dia. Percebeu-se que, dentre as três condições estudadas, não houve significativa elevação da eficiência de uso de inóculo, podendo ser usada a menor quantidade, 0,5% (m v-1).

Co-digestión anaerobia de vinaza y gallinaza de jaula: alternativa para el manejo de residuos agrícolas colombianos / Anaerobic co-digestion of vinasse and chicken manure: alternative for Colombian agrowaste management

La digestión anaerobia es una tecnología atractiva para el manejo de residuos al producir energía en forma de biogás y estabilizar la materia orgánica. En este estudio, se evaluó el proceso de co-digestión de vinaza y gallinaza de jaula como una alternativa de manejo y estabilización de residuos generados por la agroindustria colombiana. Se llevaron a cabo, ensayos de biometanización en relaciones de mezcla vinaza y gallinaza de 1:0, 3:1, 1:3 y 0:1 en base a VS. La relación de 3:1 de vinaza y gallinaza permitió aumentar la producción específica de metano en un 55% respecto a la producción específica ponderada de 0.65 m³ CH4/kg VS. Las mezclas entre los sustratos presentaron un efecto sinérgico positivo. La gallinaza de jaula mejoró la capacidad de amortiguación de la mezcla, disminuyendo el riesgo de acidificación por cambio drástico en el pH durante la digestión de la vinaza. Por otra parte, la vinaza permitió diluir la concentración total de nitrógeno amoniacal evitando la inhibición de amoniaco. Dado el aumento de la producción de metano, el co-tratamiento de vinaza y gallinaza mejora la recuperación de energía y la viabilidad económica de la instalación de la planta de biogás como parte de la cadena de producción de etanol.

Anaerobic digestion is an attractive technology for waste management meanwhile energy is recovering. This study evaluated the feasibility of codigesting vinasse and chicken manure (CM) as management alternative for Colombian agro industries. Biochemical methane potential was tested for different vinasse to CM ratios of 1:0, 3:1, 1:3 and 0:1 on VS basis. Vinasse and CM ratio of 3:1 increased the specific methane production up to 55% regard to the weighted specific methane production of 0.65 m³CH4/kg VS. Mixtures between the substrates had a positive synergistic effect. CM improved buffer capacity diminishing the risk on acidification by drastic pH shift during vinasse digestion. Furthermore, vinasse allowed dilution of total ammonia nitrogen concentration avoiding ammonia inhibition. Since a higher methane production, vinasse and CM co-treatment improves the energy-recovery and economic feasibility of installing biogas plant as part of the ethanol production chain.

Avaliação de lavador de gases do tipo Venturi, operando com solução de hidróxido de sódio, para dessulfuração de biogás com altas concentrações de H2S / Evaluation of a Venturi gas scrubber operating with sodium hydroxide solution for desulphurization of biogas with high H2S concentrations

RESUMO O processo de metanização tem sido empregado com sucesso como tratamento biológico de distintas tipologias de efluentes orgânicos. Para conversão do biogás em energia, o sulfeto de hidrogênio (H2S) é o principal composto a ser removido. A metanização da vinhaça, principal efluente do setor sucroenergético, gera um biogás com concentrações de H2S que podem ultrapassar os 30.000 ppmV, com grande variação devido às condições operacionais das usinas. Processos químicos de dessulfuração apresentam-se como uma alternativa que alia robustez e maior controle operacional do processo, além de não resultarem em diluição da concentração de metano, como ocorre em processos biológicos. Entretanto, a principal desvantagem desses processos é a demanda de compostos químicos, resultando em custos operacionais elevados. Esse trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a viabilidade técnica de se realizar uma dessulfuração química de biogás com altas concentrações de H2S, além de determinar as concentrações de hidróxido de sódio (NaOH) em meio aquoso que proporcionassem altas eficiências de remoção de H2S e que possibilite que o efluente desse processo seja passível de regeneração por microrganismos sulfo-oxidantes. Foi utilizado um lavador do tipo Venturi, com uma solução de 5,00 x 10-2 mol.L-1 de NaOH. Na faixa de pH de crescimento desses microrganismos, as eficiências de remoção de H2S variaram de 99,3 a 99,9%. Constatou-se que é possível atingir eficiências máximas de remoção de H2S utilizando soluções de 5,00 x 10-3 mol.L-1 de NaOH, obtendo um efluente com pH adequado ao crescimento de microrganismos sulfo-oxidantes. Verificou-se, ainda, que o CO2 exerce grande influência na competição pelas hidroxilas presentes no meio.

ABSTRACT The methanation process has been successfully used as a biological treatment method for different effluent typologies. For biogas to energy conversion, the hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is the most important compound that must be removed. The methanation of vinasse, which is the major effluent of the sugar and ethanol industry, results in a biogas with hydrogen sulfide concentrations that might exceed 30,000 ppmV. The concentrations may vary considerably according to the operational conditions of the production process. Chemical desulphurization processes are presented as an alternative that combines robustness and provides better operational process control. Moreover, the chemical desulphurization does not result in dilution of the methane concentration, which is side effect noticed in the biological desulphurization processes. However, the main disadvantage of the chemical desulphurization is exactly the high demand for chemical compounds, which results in high operational costs. The present research investigated the technical feasibility of applying a chemical desulphurization process to treat biogas with high hydrogen sulfide concentrations; the research also aimed to determine the sodium hydroxide (NaOH) concentration in the aqueous medium, as the NaOH presence enables high efficiency of hydrogen sulfide removal and allows the effluent regeneration by sulfo-oxidant microorganisms. The experiments were carried out using a Venturi absorption tower with a NaOH chemical solution of 5.00 x 10-2 mol.L-1. In the pH range favorable to this microorganisms, the H2S removal efficiency varied from 99.3 to 99.9%. It was observed that it is possible to achieve maximum efficiency of removal of H2S using solutions of 5.00 x 10-3 mol.L-1 NaOH, obtaining an effluent with proper pH to grow sulfo oxidant microorganisms. Moreover, it was verified that carbon dioxide significantly influenced the competition for the hydroxyls present in the solution.