The fermentation of corn starch to produce ethanol is a complex biochemical process that requires monitoring of many different parameters (e.g., solids, pH, sugar profile, glycerol, lactic and acetic acid, and water and ethanol content).

Traditional laboratory analysis using primary methods (e.g. Karl Fischer titration) takes about an hour to complete and is a limiting step for increasing plant capacity and efficiency. As a fast and non-destructive analytical technique, near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) can replace routine laboratory analysis, decreasing operating costs and increasing plant efficiency and capacity.

This White Paper describes the capabilities of the modern analytical method near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy for monitoring and improving the fermentation process of corn to ethanol.