Recovery of the spent diatomaceous earth after beer filtration, Nile Breweries, Limited, Jinja

Abstract

This project aimed at finding an alternative disposal route of the spent diatomaceous earth that is cheaper and environmentally acceptable. Treatment of the spent diatomaceous earth with chemical reagents such as caustic and water at temperatures of 85⁰C yielded a cleaner aid. Analysis of the spent diatomaceous earth revealed that it contained a high nutrient content, high solid content and moisture content but no traces of heavy metals or contaminants that could be harmful to human health. Reclamation of the spent filter aid from the filters was a more feasible operation given that the usual reagents such as water, caustic and acid were employed and it yielded a reduction in the amount of wastes generated. The amount of fresh aid used can be reduced by blending it with the reclaimed aid in such a way that there is less inventory obtained and less waste to handle.