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Project Code [2009-PhD-ET-4]
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Project title
In situ Enzymatic Conversion of Biomass into Glucose in Biodegradable Enzyme-compatible Ionic Liquids
Primary Funding Agency
Environmental Protection Agency
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
n/a
Lead Organisation
Dublin City University (DCU)
Lead Applicant
Nick Gathergood
Project Abstract
Bioethanol is a renewable transport fuel with the potential to solve problems related to climate change, energy security and declining farm incomes. For bioproduction of ethanol, biomass, principally cellulose, may ultimately be hydrolyzed to glucose for fermentation. Ionic liquids, a new class of cellulose and lignocellulose-dissolving solvents, and novel reaction media for biocatalysis are potential solvents for in situ enzymatic saccharification of cellulose to glucose. We have previously reported the design of biodegradable and low toxicity ionic liquids for chemical synthesis and herein describe their application in biomass conversion.We proposed to develop an economic and environmentally friendly technology of in situ enzymatic conversion of cellulose and ultimately lignocellulosic materials into glucose in biodegradable enzyme-compatible ionic liquids for future bioethanol production.
Grant Approved
�94,831.00
Research Hub
Green and Circular Economy
Research Theme
Waste and Resources Management
Initial Projected Completion Date
01/11/2012