Sustainable synthesis pathways: Bacterial nanocellulose from lignocellulosic biomass for circular economy initiatives

Author(s)

Rodrigues, Danielle Matias ; da Silva, Marcos Fellipe ; de Melo, Allan Henrique Felix ; Carvalho, Priscila Hoffmann ; Baudel, Henrique Macedo ; Goldbeck, Rosana

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Food Research International; v. 192, p. 9-pg., 2024-08-01.

Abstract

The hydrothermal pretreatment process stands out as a pivotal step in breaking down the hemicellulosic fraction of lignocellulosic biomasses, such as sugarcane bagasse and eucalyptus sawdust. This pretreatment step is crucial for preparing these materials for subsequent processes, particularly in food applications. This technique aims to disintegrate plant wall components like cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, and facilitating access in later phases such as enzymatic hydrolysis, and ultimately making fermentable sugars available. In this study, sugarcane bagasse and eucalyptus sawdust biomass underwent hydrothermal pretreatment at specific conditions, yielding two key components: dry biomass and hemicellulose liquor. The primary focus was to assess the impact of hydrothermal pretreatment followed by enzymatic hydrolysis, using the Celic Ctec III enzyme cocktail, to obtain fermentable sugars. These sugars were then transformed into membranes via strain Gluconacetobacter xylinus bacterial biosynthesis. Notably, the addition of a nitrogen source significantly boosted production to 14.76 g/ in hydrolyzed sugarcane bagasse, underscoring its vital role in bacterial metabolism. Conversely, in hydrolyzed eucalyptus, nitrogen source inclusion unexpectedly decreased yield, highlighting the intricate interactions in fermentation media and the pivotal influence of nitrogen supplementation. Characterization of membranes obtained in synthetic and hydrolyzed media through techniques such as FEG-SEM, FTIR, and TGA, followed by mass balance assessment, gauged their viability on an industrial scale. This comprehensive study aimed not only to understand the effects of pretreatment and enzymatic hydrolysis but to also evaluate the applicability and sustainability of the process on a large scale, providing crucial insights into its feasibility and efficiency in practical food-related scenarios, utilizing nanocellulose bacterial (BNC) as a key component. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 22/15221-1 - Xylooligosaccharides production from agroindustrial wastes and technological application in meat and plant-based products
• Grantee: Rosana Goldbeck Coelho
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants