Work out ethanol yield from crop instantly with clear inputs, formula shown and shareable results.
Fermentation of glucose to ethanol has a theoretical Gay-Lussac yield of 0.511 kg ethanol per kg sugar. Multiplying fermentable content by that stoichiometric factor and by process efficiency, then dividing by ethanol density of 0.789 kg/L, gives litres. Maize typically yields 380-420 L/t and sugarcane molasses 260-290 L/t.
Ethanol yield
Ethanol (kg) = fermentable mass x 0.511 x process efficiency; litres = kg / 0.789
Ethanol production and denaturing are licensed activities in most jurisdictions, and ethanol vapour is highly flammable. Obtain the required approvals and follow fire safety codes.
One mole of glucose (180 g) yields two moles of ethanol (92 g) and two of carbon dioxide, so 92/180 = 0.511 kg of ethanol per kg of sugar. The carbon dioxide is the unavoidable mass loss.
Hydrolysing starch adds water, so 1 kg of starch yields about 1.11 kg of fermentable glucose. Adjust the fermentable content upward for starchy feedstocks.