Evaluation of Perlite-Tannic Acid Combination as Filter-Aids in Beer Production: A Pilot Scale Approach
Abstract
This study investigated the potential of a perlite-tannic acid mixture as an alternative filter aid in beer production, focusing on filtration efficiency, beer clarity, stability, and cost savings compared to traditional kieselguhr-silica gel aids. Beer samples were filtered using an M and L Filtrox candle filter, with perlite applied as a precoat and body feed, and tannic acid used as a stabilizer. The control treatment employed kieselguhr with silica hydrogel. Tests included filter cycle monitoring (inlet pressure, throughput, haze), accelerated shelf life evaluation under thermal stress cycles, regression analysis of filtration parameters, sensory analysis, and cost-benefit analysis of filter aid consumption. The perlite-tannic acid system showed a slower inlet pressure build-up (slope + 0. 22 bar/h; R² = 0.93) compared to kieselguhr-silica gel (6 + 0.34 bar/h: R² = 0.95), indicating longer operational stability. Filtered volume increased steadily (slope +154 L/h for perlite vs. + 173 L/h for kieselguhr), but perlite achieved a higher maximum throughput (2, 640 L vs. 2, 400 L). Accelerated shelf-life testing confirmed stability for up to 12 cycles (approximately six months, with 2 cycles representing 1 month), This indicates excellent colloidal stability for perlite-tannic acid systems, with little tendency for protein-polyphenol haze formation during extended storage. Sensory evaluation revealed higher overall acceptability (7. 9 vs. 7.1) for the perlite-tannic acid system. Perlite-tannic acid filter aids demonstrated strong potential as sustainable alternative for kieselguhr-silica gel in beer filtration. Their use can maintain beer quality and stability while lowering environmental risks and providing breweries with health benefits.
Keywords
Beer; beer filterFilter aids: Kieselguhr; Silica Hydrogel; Perlite; Tannic acid.
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