Summary

This project tested a pilot alternative sugarcane processing facility in Mackay. The demonstration plant was used to separate components of the sugarcane plant and produce research samples for the development a various high-value products, supported by necessary ancillary systems and equipment.

The CRCNA’s investment funded operational activities such as equipment and laboratory hire, freight and transport for sugarcane, and general research activities. It did not fund the construction of the semi-commercial facility, which will proceed if the pilot phase proves successful.

Expected outcomes

The project demonstrated that:
• Queensland grown sugarcane can be successfully separated into its raw fractions.
• Secondary processes can successfully process those raw fractions into final usable products.
• Many of the final fraction products already meet the quality specifications of many downstream processors and manufacturers to enable the value-adding of those final products that have identified market demand.

Although expansion into further additional downstream processors and manufacturers may require further refinement and adaptation to the extraction process – should a ZERO (non-detectible) sugar level be required to be met, for its intended application.

The project team also clearly demonstrated that:
• Sugarcane can be successfully separated (at scale) into its various fractions – creating 4 new ‘renewable commodities’ that can be further utilised by processing and manufacturing industries.
• Approximately 85% of the harvested sugarcane crop can be used to produce multiple, high-quality, value-added products.
• These renewable fractions/commodities can be integrated or introduced (at scale) into multiple downstream processing and manufacturing industry processes as either replacement or alternative feedstocks.