Abstract: The means includes a layer which comprises a multiplicity of preferably spherical floating bodies with eccentric centers of gravity and which floats on the surface of the beer wort or the new beer or the beer.As a result of their eccentric center of gravity, the floating bodies maintain a stable floatation position and both the floatation foam which is formed during floatation of the beer wort and also the fermentation foam which is formed during fermentation and post-fermentation of the wort or the new beer are deposited on the floating bodies. In addition, this layer reduces damaging contact of the liquid with the oxygen component in the air space in the wort vessel.

Abstract: A process for economically utilising straw in which the straw is compressed into briquettes having a density of at least 500 kg/m.sup.3, preferably at least 1000 kg/cm.sup.3, for subsequent use in a thermal, chemical or microbiological plant.