Hydrolysis


Hydrolysis converts the cellulose content of ligno-cellulosic wastes (paper and wood) into fermentable sugars so that methane or ethanol can be produced as alternative fuels. The traditional method is for a high temperature and pressure process, in the presence of acid, to break down the cellulose materials. More recently, enzyme hydrolysis (which is basically the industrialization of the natural processes of degradation from the forest floor) and steam explosion hydrolysis have been receiving significant development interest. However, all hydrolysis processes are sensitive to continuity of feedstock in quality and quantity, which make them unsuitable for mixed wastes and more suitable for agricultural residues such as sawdust, straw, or specially grown crops.