Combined use of cellulose-acting enzymes and an engineered fermentative partner results in 51% ethanol yield.
Scientists at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi have developed a new bioprocessing method that could pave the way for the sustainable production of bioethanol and other green chemicals. The research team led by Dr Swati Sharma combined cellulose-acting enzymes (cellulases) with an engineered fermentative partner to produce a 51% yield of ethanol.
The microbial consortia designed by the team can also be used to process cellulose into other valuable products such as industrial enzymes like cellulase and lactate. According to Dr Sharma, this method could be scaled up to sustainably generate bioethanol and other green chemicals in bioreactors.
Moreover, the carbon obtained after pyrolysis can be utilized in various applications such as water filtration and electrodes, making this process even more eco-friendly.
The new bioprocessing method has been patented, and the team is currently working on scaling up the process to commercial levels. This research has the potential to revolutionize the biofuels industry and provide a sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuels.