Application of Perlite Filter Aid in Starch Sugar

Perlite filter aid is a white solid powder composed of inert amorphous glass particles, mainly composed of potassium, sodium, and aluminosilicate. It does not

contain organic matter and is sterilized through high- temperature combustion during production. Its bulk density is 20% lighter than diatomaceous earth. Its

particles are very irregular and curly in shape, forming a filter cake with a porosity of 80% -90%. Each particle has many pores connected, which can quickly filter

and capture ultra small particles below 1 micron. Compared to traditional diatomaceous earth filter aids, perlite filter aids are at a cheaper price, but also have the

advantages of maintaining a high liquid flow rate while retaining solids, excellent chemical stability, and no potential pollutants. Its heavy metal ion content is

generally 0.005%, making it suitable for food-grade filtration.

Starch sugar production mainly involves the acid method, enzyme method, and acid enzyme method. During the saccharification process, some low sugar, aged

starch cellulose, protein, and saccharification enzyme residues are produced. If no filter aid is used for filtration, they will quickly coat the surface of activated carbon and ion exchange agents, thereby reducing adsorption and exchange capacity. The pH value of the perlite filter aid is neutral, which can effectively remove flocs,

regulate the isoelectric point of the sugar solution, and improve the clarity of the sugar solution. Compared with diatomaceous earth in production, it has a fast flow rate, high clarity, low usage, low cost, and is easy to clean. The filtering methods include precoating and direct addition, and the parameters are adjusted according to the manufacturer's process and equipment.