Deep processing of corn grain
Deep processing of corn grain has significant potential within the framework of wet milling technology in Ukraine, offering a wide range of products. Examples of these products include citric acid, glucose monohydrate, fuel ethanol (bioethanol), biomethane, crystalline glucose, amino acids, glucose-fructose syrups (GFS-42, GFS-55), lactic acid, and yeast extract. Additionally, various co-products and wastes are generated during the processing, which can hold significant value and find applications in various industries.
The main product obtained from this technology is starch, which finds extensive use in the food, pharmaceutical, and other industrial sectors. Co-products and wastes generated during wet milling can be utilized in different industries. For instance, protein concentrates can be used in the feed industry for producing animal feed. Waste materials like corn husks can be utilized in bioenergy for the production of biofuel or biogas. Furthermore, these wastes can serve as raw materials for the production of biochemicals and biopolymers.
A corn grain is composed of a shell, endosperm, and germ, with each component possessing its own chemical composition and processing characteristics. On average, the corn germ represents approximately 10% of the weight of the corn grain. Its average chemical composition includes 32-37% oil, 18% proteins, 8% starch, 10% sugar, and 10% minerals. Corn germs contain over 80% of the fat, around 20% of the proteins, and approximately 74% of the minerals found in corn kernels.
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Schematic structure of corn grain

When processing corn into bioethanol, the average material balance will have: Corn processing into bioethanol

And this scheme can be supplemented with corn oil extracted from the germ, corn gluten, and gluten feed, following a similar approach used for processing corn into citric acid.

When processing 1 ton of corn with a starch content of 61%, it is possible to obtain the following products:
- 470 kg of glucose monohydrate
- 900 kg of sorbitol syrup (concentration 70%)
- 870 kg of fructose syrup (concentration 55%)
- 460 kg of citric acid
- 570 kg of lysine sulfate
The implementation of wet milling technology can also contribute to the advancement of agriculture in Ukraine. Increased corn production for this technology can stimulate the expansion of corn acreage and higher incomes for farmers. Furthermore, it can help diversify the agricultural sector and reduce dependence on other crops.
In general, the prospects of wet milling technology for Ukraine involve the expansion of product options derived from corn, the utilization of co-products and waste across various industries, the promotion of agricultural development, and the diversification of the agricultural sector.
