Biofuels Bisulfite Products

As a national producer and leader in the manufacturing of bisulfilte solutions, Hydrite offers a variety of sulfur derivatives that are effective in the removal of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as acetaldehyde from carbon dioxide gas streams in fermentation processes, and as a process aid during corn milling supporting preservation, steeping, and microbial control. Supported by a robust manufacturing and supply network across the United States as well as technical support and service, Hydrite remains a top choice for ethanol producers sourcing bisulfites. In addition to biofuels, Hydrite supplies sulfur chemistries to agriculture, industrial, food processing, energy, pulp & paper, and water treatment industries.

VOC Abatement

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) need to be removed during fermentation to create non-toxic reaction products that can be safely disposed of. Since its launch, Hydri-Maize™ catalyzed bisulfites have removed billions of pounds of freshwater from ethanol plants with improved wet scrubbing performance.

The unique concentrated blends of catalyzed bisulfites are designed as a drop-in replacement for current bisulfites, helping ethanol producers reduce plant emissions, energy costs, and freshwater consumption, all while improving operations and eliminating bottlenecks in the industry. Learn more

Steeping in Wet Corn Milling

Bisulfites are commonly used in wet corn milling as steeping agents to aid in the processing of corn into various products such as cornstarch, corn syrup, and ethanol. Bisulfites contribute to this process in three key ways:

• Softening the Corn Kernels: Bisulfites help to loosen the pericarp (outer covering) of the corn kernel, making it easier to remove during processing. This allows for better separation of the various parts of the corn kernel.
• Breaking Down Components: Bisulfites aid in breaking down the protein matrix and cell walls present in the corn kernel. This process helps release starch granules and other components, making them more accessible for extraction.
• Preventing Microbial Growth: Bisulfites act as preservatives by inhibiting the growth of certain microorganisms. This helps maintain the quality of the corn during the steeping process by preventing spoilage.

Preservation in Dry Distiller Grains (DDGs)

Dry distiller's grains (DDGs), a byproduct of ethanol production from corn, are a valuable co-product obtained after the fermentation and distillation of corn in ethanol production. After the ethanol is separated, the remaining mash undergoes drying to create DDGs, which are used as a nutritious feed for livestock due to their high protein and fiber content.

Bisulfites can be utilized as an oxygen scavenger or preservative by reacting with and reducing the amount of dissolved oxygen present. This helps in preventing or minimizing oxidative reactions that could deteriorate the quality of the DDGs during storage. Oxidation reactions can lead to the degradation of fats, proteins, and vitamins, reducing their nutritional value and potentially causing rancidity and spoilage.