Optimal beer fermentation

A new tool was developed to solve a wide range of optimal beer fermentation problems. Using a mathematical model of beer fermentation, the direct dynamic optimization technique of sequential quadratic programming was investigated for determining the optimal cooling policy to maximize ethanol production for a fixed final time, including effects that optimize flavor. The new tool is very efficient for determining optimal cooling strategies. New control strategies were found that increase ethanol production while decreasing the deleterious effects of fusel alcohols and keeping the acetaldehyde concentrations at moderate levels. Model parameter sensitivity was investigated and it was shown that the system could be regulated successfully around optimal temperature profiles.