Proton Exchange Membrane Electrolysis Applied to the Dehydration of Cow Milk

Abstract

The dehydration of cow milk to powder form extends product shelf life and reduces product shipping costs and emissions. However, the existing thermal methods commonly employed by the dairy industry produce harmful emissions in the combustion of fossil fuels. This work explores the potential role of an electrochemical alternative method of proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis in the process of concentrating milk solids. Although the thermodynamic specific energy of electrolysis at [mathematical notation] is high compared to existing thermal methods around [mathematical notation], experimental results for PEM electrolysis assisted by mechanical centrifugation suggest a specific energy closer to [mathematical notation] is possible. The energy competitive PEM electrolysis method has the additional benefit of zero emissions when supplied by renewable energy sources. Analysis of milk solids processed by the electrolysis assisted method shows promising levels of high fat, mineral, and total protein content, with liquid chromatography quantifying both casein and whey protein types retained in the solid product.