New generation biofuel: continuous acidogenesis of sucrose-raffinose mixture simulating vinasse is promoted by γ-alumina pellets

Background This investigation comprises a contribution on the production of a new generation biofuel using the industrial liquid waste of bioethanol distilleries, known as vinasse. This study focuses on the exploitation of vinasse as an acidogenesis substrate for volatile fatty acids and simultaneous ethanol production. These products can be used for ester production, which is the new generation biofuel. Therefore, the aims of the present study are (i) to examine any promotional effect of γ-alumina on acidogenesis of a sucrose-raffinose mixture simulating vinasse, (ii) to study the operational stability of the continuous acidogenesis of sucrose and raffinose and subsequently of vinasse, and (iii) to determine the volatile fatty acid chemical composition and ethanol formation.