INTERRELATIONSHIP OF INDIVIDUAL PHYSICOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF BEET MOLASSES

Abstract

Beet molasses is a valuable renewable raw material resource, the inclusion of which in circulation allows the creation of new sources of income. The viscosity and density of molasses are of great importance for storage and transportation, as well as in sugar production during centrifugation of the massecuite of the last stage of crystallization, and for technological operations in related industries. Recent changes in sugar beet cultivation technology and the modernization of the technical and technological state of food technology have led to some changes in the physical and chemical properties of molasses. The aim of the study is to predict the viscosity of beet molasses based on the correlation dependence on its density and main chemical indicators. Physicochemical monitoring data of molasses collected from 2021 to 2024 were tested for anomalies using parametric Grubbs’ and Dixon’s criteria. The degree of conformity with the normal distribution law was assessed using parametric tests of the third- and fourth-order central moments (asymmetry and kurtosis), as well as non-parametric Kolmogorov–Smirnov and Pearson tests. Regression coefficients and their estimates were obtained using the least squares method. The quality of the regression equation and significance of its coefficients were determined by the coefficient of determination, Fisher’s criterion, t-statistics, and p-values. Based on probabilistic analysis, indicators determining the properties and composition of beet molasses were studied and expressed through adequate regression equations. Due to the additive nature of these indicators, dynamic viscosity can be determined using the derived relationships after measuring relevant parameters. The given regression equations can be modified upon obtaining additional data on the content of other chemicals in molasses that affect its rheological properties.