Application of Citeromyces siamensis for Molasses Wastewater Decolourization

Molasses, a brownish black viscous liquid, is a byproduct of the cane sugar process. It finds applications in various industries such as fertilizer production, animal husbandry, alcohol production, monosodium glutamate production, and the production of acetic acid. In Thailand, it is primarily used for alcohol production and as animal feed. However, molasses wastewater is characterized by high levels of biochemical and chemical oxygen demand, as well as suspended solids. Untreated release of this wastewater into the environment can lead to numerous environmental issues. Additionally, the presence of melanoidins in molasses wastewater makes its removal challenging, resulting in a dark colour of the treated water. Discharge of this dark-coloured water into natural water sources can lead to an abnormal discolouration of the water. This study aims to investigate the optimal conditions for utilizing Citeromyces siamensis microorganisms in the biological treatment of molasses wastewater. The experiment was conducted to determine the conditions that facilitate the reduction of colour in molasses wastewater. The findings indicate that the addition of 1 % glucose and 1 % peptone was more effective in decolourizing molasses wastewater using Citeromyces siamensis compared to other nutrient additions. While the addition of additives may incur additional costs, it remains a more economical option compared to the use of chemicals for wastewater colour removal. Furthermore, the use of the additives is considered safe for living organisms.