On-going research in Pennsylvania State University
- Anaerobic microbial solid substrate pretreatment and saccharification of corn Stover for ethanol production.
Deepti, Tanjore, Agricultural & Biological Engineering [dissertation project underway]
- Optimization of Lignin Conversion Processes for Production of Fuels and Value-Added Chemicals.
Dr. Caroline Burgess Clifford, The Energy Institute
Basically, the aim of this research is to examine economically favorable processes for lignin conversion during hydrolysis/deoxygeneration and super critical water gasification.
- “Lignocellulose degradation in wood feeding insects”.
Scott Geib, Department of Entomology
The focus of this study is on the Asian longhorn beetle (ALB), which is a lignocellulose degrading insect. A complete suite of cellulolytic enzymes were detected in the beetle guts using specific substrate, including an assay that provides a direct evidence of lignin degradation. Collaboration with the DOE’s Joint Genome Institute is underway to reveal the genes for cellulosic enzymes in the ALB guts that may have application in the conversion of lignocellulose to ethanol.
- Membrane Separations — Opportunities in Bioenergy Production.
Andrew L. Zydney and Walter L. Robb, Chemical Engineering
The challenge is here is to overcome production limitation of bio-alcohols due to concentration of products and by-products that result in toxicity and inhibition of microorganism activities. The discussion focuses on the use of submerged micro-filtration membranes and pervaporation.