Developing Hops Extraction Method for Brewing

Presenter Information

Anh Cong, Minnesota State University, Mankato

Location

CSU Ballroom

Start Date

11-4-2017 10:00 AM

End Date

11-4-2017 11:30 AM

Student's Major

Chemistry and Geology

Student's College

Science, Engineering and Technology

Mentor's Name

Brian Groh

Mentor's Department

Chemistry and Geology

Mentor's College

Science, Engineering and Technology

Description

Hops are an essential ingredient in developing a bitterness in flavor and a unique aroma in beer. These characteristics are due to a few important components including bitter acids, essential oils, and polyphenols. These compounds are not found abundantly in hops, however, which complicates the extraction process. This project focuses on developing a method of extraction that can maximize the yield of these desired components from hops. The extraction is carried out using ethanol as a solvent under regulated conditions. A concentrated extract is produced following evaporation of the solvent. Experimental parameters evaluated include duration of extraction time, solvent volume, and the evaporation procedure. Chemical analysis methods including UV-VIS spectrometry, gas chromatography, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry are used to assess the components present and their quantities in the extracts. Comparison between the data collected from the extracted samples and a standard toluene extraction method is used to verify the efficiency of our process and the quality of the product. This information can potentially lead to the development of an extraction method that results in a commercially viable extract that can benefit the craft brewing industry.