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Showing posts from December, 2014

Introduction to Fermentation Process

What is Fermentation?   Fermentation is the proce ss in which the chemical transformation of organic substances into simpler compounds carried out by the action of bio-catalysts (enzymes) produced by microorganisms like bacteria, molds or yeasts. The enzymes act by hydrolysis, a process of predigesting or breaking down of composite organic molecules into smaller units or more easily digestible stuffs in case of foods For example… The enzyme carbohydratases act on carbohydrates. For an instance, enzyme  amylase act on starch and  convert it them into simple sugars which can be utilized easily by the microorganisms The enzyme proteases act on various proteins. For an instance,  enzyme protease breaks down huge protein molecules initially into polypeptides and peptides and then into numerous amino acids, which can be readily and easily taken up by the microorganisms The enzyme lipases on various lipids. For ...

How To Calculate Muffler Size and Exhaust Pipe Diameter

If you’re a math wiz and/or an engineer, you’re probably going to like this article and the resources we’ve linked to. However, if you find yourself getting stuck (or bored) with the info below, here are the key take-aways : 1. The factory exhaust pipe diameter is usually a good choice for most vehicles . 2. The muffler manufacturers are doing all the math for us – no need to reinvent the wheel. If they say it will work for your vehicle, it will probably work for your vehicle. 3. We’ve got an easy-to-read exhaust system size table that is good for quick calculations. Breaking Down The Problem While we’re not going to go through and list out all the formulas and calculations you need to figure this exactly , we will break down the problem, explain how you would go about figuring things out scientifically, and then leave you with some good quick-and-dirty exhaust system math as well as some interesting links. The science goes like this… 1) Mas...

Biodiesel byproduct rejuvenated into plastic feedstock

A sustainable method to synthesise platform chemical lactic acid from waste glycerol , a byproduct of biodiesel production, has emerged from research in Switzerland. A significant amount of glycerol (bottom layer) is leftover when making biodiesel (top layer) © Bo Cheng/ETH Zurich Collaboration between the advanced catalysis engineering and the safety and environmental technology groups at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) in Zurich, headed by Javier Pérez-Ramírez and Konrad Hungerbuehler , respectively, gave way to the new cascade process. Glycerol is first oxidised to give dihydroxyacetone through an established enzymatic process. Dihydroxyacetone is then isomerised over a tin-containing zeolite catalyst, which was designed by ETH Zurich team, to give lactic acid. The increasing demand for biodiesel means an oversupply of glycerol and, currently, any excess glycerol must be disposed of. Glycerol corresponds to around 10wt% of the fuel made. Pr...

Foods That Naturally Unclog Arteries

If your goal is to restore or maintain a healthy heart, there are a variety of foods that can help to unclog arteries of plaque build-up, lower your blood pressure, and reduce inflammation – the main culprits of cardiovascular illness. Many of the foods on this list contain healthy fats, antioxidants, and soluble fiber which are great not only for your heart, but also to promote healthy skin, hair, hormone production, and nutrient absorption.  You can feel better, have more energy, and improve your heart health without the use of toxic chemicals. 1. Asparagus One of the best vegetables for clearing arteries, asparagus is full of fiber and minerals, as well as a long list of vitamins including K, B1, B2, C, and E.  Asparagus can help to lower blood pressure and prevent blood clots that can cause serious cardiovascular illness.  Try steaming raw asparagus for maximum vitamin potential! 2. Avocado The next time you make a sandwich or salad, ...

The Development of Inocula for Bacterial Processes

The Development of Inocula for Bacterial Processes Introduction The main objective of inoculum development for traditional bacterial fermentations is to decrease lag phase. A long lag phase is not only is wastage of time but also medium is consumed in maintaining a viable culture prior to growth. The length of the lag phase is affected by the size of the inoculum and its physiological condition.   Bacterial inocula should be transferred, when the cells are still metabolically active. The age of the inoculum is particularly important in the growth of sporulating bacteria, for sporulation is induced at the end of the logarithmic phase and the use of an inoculum containing a high percentage of spores would result in a long lag phase in a successive fermentation. 5% inoculum of thermophilic Bacillus in logarithm phase is used for the commercial production of proteases. A two-stage inoculum development programme is used fo...