Interactions of Torrefaction and Alkaline Pretreatment with Respect to Glucose Yield of Hydrolyzed Wheat Straw

Abstract

Torrefaction is known to reduce the logistical costs of biomass. Torrefied biomass’ prospects as feedstock for fermentation to liquid biofuel are largely unknown. This study investigated the interactions of torrefaction and alkaline pretreatment of wheat straw on glucose yields from enzymatic hydrolysis, including treatment order and the potential for pH to play a role in the process. Across a range of torrefaction severities with temperatures of 200 °C, 220 °C, and 240 °C and durations of 20, 40, and 60 min, torrefaction had a negative impact on glucose yield of wheat straw with or without alkaline pretreatment and regardless of the order of alkaline pretreatment. Alkaline pretreatment after torrefaction results in higher glucose yield than alkaline pretreatment before torrefaction, or by torrefaction alone. Hence, there is the prospect for adding logistical benefits of torrefaction to the bioethanol system if alkaline pretreatment is coupled with torrefaction. Decreasing trend in pH with increase in torrefaction severities was observed for trials without buffer, indicating chemical changes causing the decrease in pH might be associated with the reduction in yield.