Response surface methodology and optimization of the processes for bioethanol production from Calabash (Crescentia cujete) Using Cronobacter malonaticus

Aim: Response surface methodology (RSM) model was applied to optimize ethanol production from Calabash (Crescentia cujete) pulp juice using Cronobacter malonaticus. Study Design: The squeezed with muslin cloth, and vacuum filtered clear solution before use. tested for reducing sugars the Dinitrosalicylic acid (DNS) method. Twenty three (23) runs, including 3 controls, of fermentation conducted at varying temperatures, pH, volumes inoculum. process parameters (input variables): inoculum, temperature, pH were subjected response model, Central Composite Design (CCD). Place Duration Study: This study carried out in Environmental Microbiology Laboratory, University Port Harcourt six months. Methodology: Fermentation done conical flasks covered cotton wool foil a stationary incubator four days (96 hours). Active stock culture malonaticus used, inoculum developed Marcfaland’s Samples collected every 24 hours, centrifuged, analyzed measurement output variables: Reducing sugar, cell density concentration. Results: concentration 3.2 mg/ml. Results obtained also revealed that can take place on wide range temperature 28-32°C. optimal performance C.malonaticus 5.95-6.5. optimum volume 10%v/v (i.e. 10 ml 90 juice). optimized RSM gave 5.08% v/v bioethanol, being highest achieved pH6.08 28oC . Conclusion: bioethanol yield substrate is reasonable considering bacterium used not known production. Also duration could be responsible yield.