Fed-batch fermentation of sugarcane biomass applied for biomolecules production in fluidized bed reactor

Abstract

A production of xylitol and ethanol from a mixture of sugarcane straw and bagasse (biomass composed of 50 % m/m of both) hydrolysates was evaluated in a batch-fed column reactor. The biomass underwent acid hydrolysis, and the xylitol production process from hemicellulosic hydrolysate was assessed to determine the feasibility of operating four batches, showing conversions (YP/S of 0.28, 0.46, 0.57 and 0.47 g/g). Afterwards, alkaline pretreatment was performed, followed by enzymatic saccharification of the remaining biomass to obtain fermentable sugars for ethanol production. This involved operating five cycles, showing YP/S values of 0.14, 0.18, 0.24, 0.38 and 0.37 g/g, respectively. Additionally, the utilization of the black liquor generated from alkaline pretreatment was studied for reuse in subsequent pretreatments, demonstrating the feasibility of 4 cycles and thus, reducing the need for chemical preparation. The potential for maximizing the use of the main fractions of sugarcane biomass was confirmed.