Improvements in Bioethanol Production Process from Straw

Translated title of the contribution: Improvements in Bioethanol Production Process from Straw

Heike Kahr, Alexander Jäger

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingsConference contribution

Abstract

Motivation: An efficient production of sustainable, carbon-neutral, renewable fuels like bioethanol and biogas from straw and other agricultural by-products has to be developed to guarantee mobility. The scientific focus is the improvement of the bioethanol production using straw as an alternative energy source. Methods: The ethanol production process is already established on a laboratory scale. The process involves the following steps: the pretreatment of straw with called steam explosion and cellulose becomes accessible for enzymatic hydrolysis. Subsequently, yeast ferments the obtained glucose to ethanol. Unfortunately, inhibitors such as weak acids, furans and phenolic compounds are generated during the pretreatment and hydrolysis process, thereby reducing the glucose concentration and ethanol yield. Results and limitations: Glucose concentration was raised up to 140 g/l and ethanol content up to 7% by means of optimization of the process (washing steps and recirculation). Diverse substances inhibit the fermentation and reduce the ethanol content. Washing steps prior to hydrolysis clearly reduced the inhibitory substances. Conclusion: The ethanol and glucose yield was improved due to optimization of the bioethanol production. Now an efficient procedure to reduce the inhibitors has to be established to plan a pilot plant
Translated title of the contributionImprovements in Bioethanol Production Process from Straw
Original languageGerman
Title of host publicationLinköping Electronic Conference Proceedings
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2011
EventProceedings World Renewable Energy Congress – Linköping, Sweden - Linköping, Sweden
Duration: 8 May 201113 May 2011
http://www.wrec2011.com/program.html

Publication series

NameLinköping Electronic Conference Proceedings
ISSN (Print)1650-3686
ISSN (Electronic)1650-3740

Conference

ConferenceProceedings World Renewable Energy Congress – Linköping, Sweden
Country/TerritorySweden
CityLinköping
Period08.05.201113.05.2011
Internet address

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