| abstract |
An improved liquefaction process comprises the use of an increased dose of alpha-amylase coupled with a liquefaction temperature no higher than 99°C, e.g ., in the range of about 88-92C. The improved liquefaction process advantageously omits the conventional high-temperature treatment, e.g., jet-cooking at a temperature of about 95-125°C, so that starch can be processed more economically into ethanol, for example. In one embodiment, the improved liquefaction process results in an increased yield of ethanol using commercially available alpha-amylases. |