Reduction of melassigenic ions in cane sugar juice by electrodialysis

A conventional electrodialysis operation was performed to remove melassigenic ions, especially Na+ and K+, from the juice of cane sugar. A preselection of several commercial membranes was carried out to determine the best pair of ion exchange membranes for electrodialysis operation. To determine the optimal conditions for the electrodialysis operation, the dependence of juice pH and of demineralization rate on current density, time of operation, flow rate, temperature and on the nature of electrolyte in concentrated and rinse solutions was investigated. This study shows that the problems, which in the past prevented introduction of electrodialysis in the sugar manufacturing industry, can be avoided.