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Published on: November 20, 2014
Steam refining as an alternative to steam explosion
Fokko Schütt1, Bjørge Westereng, Svein J Horn
1Institute of Wood Technology and Wood Biology, Johann Heinrich von Thünen-Institut (vTI), Leuschner Str. 91B, 21031 Hamburg, Germany.
Bioresource Technology
|March 2, 2012
Summary
Steam refining and steam explosion pretreatment methods were compared for biomass. Particle size reduction, not the explosion effect, is key for enhancing enzymatic hydrolysis accessibility.
Area of Science:
- Biomass pretreatment
- Biochemical engineering
- Enzymatic hydrolysis
Background:
- Steam pretreatment is common for biomass defibration, often using steam explosion.
- Alternative methods like steam refining can also achieve defibration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare steam explosion and steam refining for biomass pretreatment.
- To determine the key factors influencing enzymatic hydrolysis efficiency.
Main Methods:
- Biomass was pretreated under identical conditions (temperature, time) using steam explosion and steam refining.
- Particle size distribution and volatile content were analyzed.
- Enzymatic hydrolysis was performed and results compared.
Main Results:
- Steam refining required smaller particle sizes for homogeneous slurries.
- Steam refining yielded higher amounts of condensable volatiles.
- No significant differences in enzymatic hydrolysis yields were observed between the two methods.
Conclusions:
- Particle size reduction is the primary factor enhancing enzymatic accessibility.
- The 'explosion effect' of steam explosion is not essential for improved enzymatic hydrolysis.
- Steam refining offers a viable alternative for biomass pretreatment.
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