June 24, 2008

Hawaii study aims to convert sugarcane ethanol waste into feed

University of Hawaii researchers are trying to develop a technology to convert a waste product from sugarcane ethanol production into a substitute for imported fishmeal.

Results of the study could help determine whether Hawaiian Commercial and Sugar Co. (HC&S) goes into ethanol production, said Lee Jakeway, director of energy development.

UH-Manoa scientist Samir Khanal said his team is looking at converting residue called vinasse from sugarcane ethanol production on Maui and Kauai.

Khanal explained that vinasse comes from the fermentation process and once the ethanol gets out, it may have similar characteristics with corn ethanol and lots of micronutrients.

Khanal was also a co-investigator of an Iowa State University project that won the 2008 Grand Prize for University Research from the American Academy of Environmental Engineers.

The Iowa researchers grew a fungus in fermentation leftovers from corn-produced ethanol.

The scientists said it saved energy, recycled more water and improved livestock feed.

Jakeway said HC&S is supporting Khanal's research as the technology would be helpful in transforming a waste product into something that would be value-added as animal feed.