Optimization of enzymatic hydrolysis of corn starch to obtain glucose syrups by genetic algorithm

This work corresponds to the optimization of the operating variables of the enzymatic hydrolysis of corn starch to obtain glucose syrups using the genetic algorithm of Matlab (2020a). For this reason, the hydrolytic process is mathematically modeled by response surface methodology. Pareto chart indicated that saccharification variables exert the highest influence on starch conversion. This mathematical model is beneficial for a better understanding and operational control of hydrolysis at the industrial level. The optimization problem solution shows that a maximum dextrose equivalent of 98.13% can be reached if the hydrolysis is performed under optimal operating conditions, which were also confirmed experimentally. The results show that to achieve the highest yield, liquefaction should be carried out at a temperature of 92oC, pH of 6.3, α-amylase dose of 1.5 mg enzyme/g starch and hydrolysis time of 1 hour; while saccharification should be conducted at a temperature of 57oC, pH of 4.9, glucoamylase dose of 1.15 mg enzyme/g starch and hydrolysis time of 34 hours. The reversion phenomenon is detected when the hydrolysis time exceeds 35 hours, with a negative incidence on the dextrose equivalent.