Optimization of Bioethanol Production from Cassava Wastewater Using Response Surface Methodology

• Author(s): Amaoma J. N ; Onwukwe, C. D. ; Stanley, H. O.
• Paper ID: 1706833
• Page: 14-33
• Published Date: 01-01-2025
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 8 Issue 7 January-2025

Abstract

Nigeria, a leading global producer of cassava, generates substantial amounts of processing waste, including wastewater. This readily available feedstock presents an opportunity to address the environmental challenges associated with improper waste disposal. Cassava wastewater, if not managed effectively, can contaminate water sources and contribute to soil degradation. This study investigated the optimization of bioethanol production from cassava wastewater using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). Four independent variables, namely temperature (25-45 °C), pH (6-8), incubation time (3-7 days), and wastewater concentration (25-100%), were evaluated using a Central Composite Design. A two-factor interaction (2FI) model was found to be statistically significant (p < 0.0001), with an adjusted R² of 0.9463 and a predicted R² of 0.8809, indicating a good fit. The model predicted maximum ethanol yield (17.34% v/v) at 45 °C, pH 8, 6 days’ incubation, and 100% wastewater concentration. Validation experiments confirmed the model's accuracy, with an observed ethanol yield of 16.50% ± 0.87% (v/v), which was within the 95% prediction interval. Concurrent analysis revealed significant reductions in heavy metal concentrations (e.g., lead from 0.032 mg/L to 0.0021 mg/L) and total solids (from 119.65 mg/L to 3.71 mg/L) in the wastewater after fermentation. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of bioethanol production from cassava wastewater, offering a sustainable solution for waste management and a promising avenue for renewable energy generation.

Keywords

Bioethanol, cassava, waste water, palm wine, saccharomyces cerevisae, RSM, Optimisation, and renewable energy

Citations

IRE Journals:
Amaoma J. N , Onwukwe, C. D. , Stanley, H. O. "Optimization of Bioethanol Production from Cassava Wastewater Using Response Surface Methodology" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 8 Issue 7 2025 Page 14-33

IEEE:
Amaoma J. N , Onwukwe, C. D. , Stanley, H. O. "Optimization of Bioethanol Production from Cassava Wastewater Using Response Surface Methodology" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 8(7)