FREEZE-EXPLOSION TECHNIQUE FOR INCREASING CELLULOSE HYDROLYSIS.

Abstract

A novel pretreatment has been developed to increase the reactivity of cellulose, in particular to increase the rate and extent of cellulose hydrolysis. This technique is called the freeze-explosion method and relies on treatment of the cellulosic material with a volatile liquid under pressure followed by pressure release to evaporate the liquid and reduce the temperature. Volatile liquids which also chemically swell and decrystallize cellulose are particularly effective when used in this method. Greater than 90% of theoretical conversion of cellulose to glucose has been achieved by enzymatic hydrolysis of alfalfa and rise straw treated with liquid ammonia using this freeze-explosion technique. 8 tables.