Electrochemical processes for acid whey treatment and reuse

摘要

Electrochemical devices capable of converting acidic aqueous byproducts of strained yogurt production into value-added materials, as well as methods of making and using these devices, are described herein. Assembly of an electrolytic cell or series of cells that contain an anode that oxidizes organic substances in the aqueous byproduct stream and a cathode that either reduces organic species or water is described. Electrolysis serves to break down the organic matter present in the liquid, such as lactic acid and lactose, as well as aid in the separation of whey protein matter. Gaseous products of this electrolysis process can be either sold or used in waste-to-energy schemes, thereby introducing an environmentally-friendly method for the electrolytic treatment of acid whey.