Bioethanol production from individual and mixed agricultural biomass residues

Abstract Cellulosic bioethanol production has been fraught with challenges, including fluctuations in feedstock supply, handling costs, pretreatment, enzymes, and other logistical problems. Most studies of lignocellulosic ethanol production have focused on a single type of biomass; however, full utilization of various lignocellulosic biomass sources might enhance bioethanol production and the economic feasibility of the biorefinery. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of popping pretreatment on saccharification and fermentation for individual and mixed biomass. We then compared separate hydrolysis and fermentation (SHF) with simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) processing, with the aim of optimizing production of bioethanol from biomass. Saccharification efficiencies were increased significantly in all the popping-pretreated compared to the non-pretreated individual and mixed biomass. The SSF was superior compared to SHF processing. Our results indicated that the saccharification efficiencies of both individual and mixed biomass were improved after popping pretreatment; in particular, the production of bioethanol from mixed biomass was identified as a suitable approach for more extensive application.