Researchers at the Joint BioEnergy Institute are exploring new ways to meet the challenge of recalcitrant cellulosic feedstocks and lower the cost of biomass-based biofuels. The group recently published two papers detailing their work to genetically modify xylan and lignin, resulting in improved conversion characteristics in the model plants used in the research. Follow this link to learn more: http://ethanolproducer.com/articles/9409/research-targets-cells-to-reduce-lignin-boost-fermentable-sugar
Category: Pretreatment
pretreatment webpage
Lignocellulose Pretreatment Technologies
An overview of common pretreatment technologies and links for more reading on each technology. Follow this link to learn more: http://bioweb.sungrant.org/Technical/Biofuels/Technologies/Ethanol+Production/Ethanol+from+Cellulose+Resources/Pretreatment/Pretreatment.htm
The conversion of cellulosic materials to simple organics
Cellulosic materials such as wood can be difficult to break down. This page provides resources to better understand cellulosic materials and their structures Follow this link to learn more: http://nsm1.nsm.iup.edu/jford/projects/Cellulose/
JBEI team develops ionic-liquid-tolerant bacterial cocktail for cost-effective biomass pretreatment for cellulosic biofuels
Researchers from the US Department of Energy (DOE) Joint BioEnergy Institute (JBEI) have developed an ionic liquid (IL)-tolerant bacterial cocktail for the pretreatment of cellulosic biomass at higher temperatures and in the presence of much higher IL concentrations than commercial fungal cocktails. Follow this link to learn more: http://www.greencarcongress.com/2012/06/jbei-20120604.html
Chemical Composition of Wood
This set of class notes explains the chemical makeup of wood as well as general chemical properties Follow this link to learn more: http://www.ipst.gatech.edu/faculty/ragauskas_art/technical_reviews/Chemical%20Overview%20of%20Wood.pdf
Comparative Genomic Analysis of the Thermophilic Biomass-degrading Fungi Myceliophthora thermophila and Thielavia terrestris
The genomes of two cellulase-producing fungi are compared to see if similarities and differences will elucidate enzyme properties that can be used for biofuel pretreatment. Follow this link to learn more: http://www.nature.com/nbt/journal/v29/n10/abs/nbt.1976.html
Challenges on the Road to Biofuels
What are some common problems in the lignocellulose-based ethanol production line? This review highlights some of the concerns for present and future technologies. Follow this link to learn more: http://nabc.cals.cornell.edu/pubs/nabc_19/NABC19_5Plenary2_Gibbons.pdf
Water-based Woody Biorefinery
This study discusses the three elements of a wood-based biorefinery, as proposed by the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF): hot-water extraction, hydrolysis, and membrane separation/concentration. Follow this link to learn more: http://www.mendeley.com/research/waterbased-woody-biorefinery/
Acid in Ionic Liquid: An Efficient System for Hydrolysis of Lignocellulose
Research discussing the use of acid in ionic liquid to hydrolyze lignocellulosic materials. Follow this link to learn more: http://pubs.rsc.org/en/Content/ArticleLanding/2008/GC/b711512a
Overcoming Plant Recalcitrance: Supercomputers Tackle Biofuel Production Problems
Plant cell wall recalcitrance is one of the greatest hurdles in biofuel production. SciDAC is utilizing molecular biology and computer modeling to try to figure out how to minimize recalcitrance. Follow this link to learn more: http://www.scidacreview.org/0905/pdf/biofuel.pdf