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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

Start Date

01/11/2009

Initial Projected Completion Date

01/11/2012