Experimental data and modelling of 2G ethanol production by Wickerhamomyces sp. UFFS-CE-3.1.2

Abstract

Faced to the possibility of shortage of fossil fuels, researchers have focused their research for alternative production of biofuels. However, in order to guarantee an increase in the energy matrix, it is necessary to ensure that the process can be scaled up until it reaches the level of trade. In this sense, this study evaluated the production of second-generation ethanol using industrial sugarcane bagasse hydrolysate (non-detoxified) fermented by Wickerhamomyces sp. strain UFFS-CE-3.1.2, in bioreactor. For this, we carried out a fermentation without pH adjustment and another one with pH constantly controlled (7.00). The fermentation process conducted with adjusted pH favored the consumption of xylose and glucose and led to a production of 9.25 g L−1 of ethanol. The results indicate that the inhibitory effect of acetic acid can be reduced with the increase in pH, favoring the consumption of xylose levels by the yeast Wickerhamomyces sp. UFFS-CE-3.1.2. The production using a bioreactor brought similar results to those obtained in previous fermentation processes conducted in flasks, indicating the possibility of enlarging the system to commercial level. The mathematical model proposed led to an adequate fit when compared to experimental data.