Bioethanol Production from Organic Wastes: A Comprehensive Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31305/rrijm.2024.v09.n06.048Keywords:
Lignocellulosic biomass, bioethanol, agricultural residues, pretreatment technologies, enzymatic saccharification, polyglucans, circular bioeconomyAbstract
The escalating depletion of fossil fuel reserves, coupled with intensifying concerns over anthropogenic climate change and greenhouse gas emissions, has catalyzed an urgent global search for alternative energy vectors that are simultaneously sustainable, environmentally benign, renewable, and economically viable. Bioethanol has emerged as a promising substitute for conventional gasoline, offering pathways toward energy independence, reduced petrochemical dependence, and enhanced environmental security. However, first-generation feedstocks such as corn and sugarcane are increasingly inadequate to meet global demand, given their competing roles in food and feed supply chains. This review critically examines the scientific and technological landscape surrounding second-generation bioethanol production, with particular emphasis on lignocellulosic agricultural residues as abundant, renewable, and cost-effective feedstocks. While significant technical challenges persist—including biomass recalcitrance, logistical constraints, and the necessity for complete delignification—advances in pretreatment methodologies, enzymatic hydrolysis, and fermentation technologies are progressively enhancing process efficiencies. The paper synthesizes current knowledge on pretreatment categories (physical, chemical, physicochemical, and biological), fermentation strategies, and downstream processing. Future research imperatives include the development of robust multi-substrate microbial strains, low-carbon and green process intensification, digital bioprocess control, and regionally optimized biorefinery architectures grounded in circular economy principles.
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