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Updated: Jun 8, 2026
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Techniques for the Evolution of Robust Pentose-fermenting Yeast for Bioconversion of Lignocellulose to Ethanol
Published on: October 24, 2016
[Ethanol production from sweet sorghum stalks by advanced solid state fermentation (ASSF) technology]
Bing Han1, Li Wang, Shizhong Li
1Institute of Nuclear and New Energy Technology, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
Sheng Wu Gong Cheng Xue Bao = Chinese Journal of Biotechnology
|October 20, 2010
Summary
Advanced solid state fermentation (ASSF) using Saccharomyces cerevisiae CGMCC1949 significantly boosts fuel ethanol production from sweet sorghum stalks. This cost-effective technology achieves high yields and extends plant operation, proving economically competitive.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Renewable Energy
- Chemical Engineering
Background:
- Sweet sorghum stalks are a promising lignocellulosic feedstock for bioethanol production.
- Traditional fermentation methods face challenges with efficiency and feedstock storage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and optimize an advanced solid state fermentation (ASSF) technology for fuel ethanol production from sweet sorghum stalks.
- To establish cost-effective feedstock storage solutions.
- To validate the technology at a pilot scale and assess economic viability.
Main Methods:
- Screening and identification of a robust Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain (CGMCC1949).
- Development of ASSF technology with optimized fermentation kinetics and heat-mass transfer.
- Design and scale-up of a rotating drum bioreactor.
- Techno-economic analysis (TEA) using ASPEN software.
Main Results:
- Fermentation time reduced to under 30 hours with an ethanol yield of 92% of theoretical maximum.
- Cost-effective storage of sweet sorghum stalks achieved with <5% sugar loss over 200 days.
- Pilot plant trials demonstrated 91% ethanol yield in a 127 m³ scaled-up bioreactor.
Conclusions:
- The developed ASSF technology offers a highly efficient and economically competitive route for fuel ethanol production from sweet sorghum.
- The integrated approach of feedstock storage, optimized fermentation, and bioreactor design enhances the sustainability of bioethanol production.
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