Process design and feasibility study of food-grade salt production from crude solar salt in Madura, Indonesia

Abstract

The production of food-grade salt from crude solar salt has been examined through a techno-economic evaluation. This study aimed to investigate a salt factory to analyze its technical and economic aspects to determine the precise parameters for improving the quality of food-grade salt. The primary process of this factory involves grinding, washing, draining, drying, and fortification, supported by equipment like brine management, conveyors, sieves, and packaging. The proposed salt plant, designed for a 3-ton daily output over 15 years, requires 30 months for construction and a 4-month startup. The total capital outlay is USD 1,921,000, with USD 310,000 for technology and equipment. Economic indicators, including a Net Present Value (NPV) of USD 7,862,000, an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 46.48%, payback in 1.56 years, and a Return on Investment (ROI) of 64.28%, demonstrate feasibility. Establishing a salt plant in Indonesia supports food-grade salt production, stabilizes solar salt prices and enhances the welfare of traditional salt farmers. Ultimately, the results of this study can provide valuable insights for evaluating the feasibility of establishing a food-grade salt production plant in Indonesia.

Keywords

• food-grade salt
• crude solar salt
• salt processing
• salt plant
• techno-economic analysis