GB248998A - Process for obtaining milk sugar from whey - Google Patents

Abstract

248,998. Bloxam, A. G., (Elektro-Osmose Akt.-Ges. Graf Schwerin Ges.). July 17. 1925. Lactose.-Lactose is prepared from whey by neutralizing the whey until it is approximately at th( true neutral point, 'bringing it to a temperature which promotes coagulation of the albumens, acidifying at this temperature, and, after removal of the precipitated albumens, treating the liquid electro-osmotically. In the form described, the whey is neutralized with sodium carbonate, boiled for a very short time, acidified gradually with a strong acid, e.g. hydrochloric or sulphuric acid, and filtered. The filtrate is treated with an adsorption agent, such as clay or kaolin, to free it further from albumens, and then subjected between diaphragms to the action of a continuous electric current, in the form of a layer thin in the direction of the current, until it is practically free from salts and from diffusible degradation products of the albumens, and is subsequently evaporated to dryness in a vacuum or by spraying. Pure lactose may be obtained by one recrystallization. The electro-osmotic treatment may be effected by circulating the liquid by a pump P from a reservoir S through a compartment M separated from compartments An, Kn, through which water flows continually, by the anodic and kathodic diaphragms. The compartments may be formed by frames arranged in a filter press. The anodic diaphragm may consist of animal membranes, such as hide or skin, animal bladder, gut, &c., and the kathodic diaphragm of woven vegetable material, e.g. cotton fabric. The electric treatment mav be made continuous by omitting the reservoir S and using a number of the electro osmotic cells in the manner of a filter press. During this treatment, which should not be too prolonged, the whey is not allowed to become too acid and its temperature is kept below 40‹ C. A specific example of the process is described.