Pachira aquatica fruits shells valorization: renewables phenolics through analytical pyrolysis study (Py-GC/MS) / Valorização das cascas dos frutos da Pachira aquática: fenólicos renováveis através de estudo analítico de pirólise (Py-GC/MS)

This research valorized Pachira aquatica Aubl.'s fruit shells (PAS) through its energetic characterization and flash pyrolysis for biofuels or chemicals production. The characterization was performed through proximate and ultimate analysis, bulk density, higher heating value (HHV), hemicellulose, cellulose and lignin content, thermogravimetric analysis and absorption spectra in the infrared region obtained by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy technique (FTIR). The analytical flash pyrolysis was performed at 500°C in a Py-5200 HP-R coupled to a gas chromatograph (Py-GC/MS). The PAS biomass presents potential for thermochemical energy conversion processes due to its low moisture and ash content, 76.90% of volatile matter, bulk density of 252.6 kg/m3 and HHV of 16.24 MJ/kg. Flash pyrolysis products are mostly phenols or light organic acids derived from the decomposition of polysaccharides. Results confirmed the potential of PAS to produce bio-phenolics, such as 4-methoxyphenol which is an important active ingredient for skin depigmentation used in drugs and cosmetics, and as phenolic extract that can be used as a precursor to resins, applications that convert this forest waste into bio products for industry into a green circular economy.

Este trabalho teve como objetivo a valorização das cascas dos frutos da Pachira aquatica Aubl. (PAC) através da sua caracterização energética e pirólise flash para produção de biocombustíveis ou produtos químicos. A caracterização foi realizada através de análises imediata e final, densidade aparente, poder calorífico superior (PCS), conteúdos de hemicelulose, celulose e lignina, análise termogravimétrica e espectros de absorção na região do infravermelho obtidos pela técnica de espectroscopia no infravermelho com transformada de Fourier (FTIR). A pirólise flash analítica foi realizada a 500 °C em equipamento Py-5200 HP-R acoplado a um cromatógrafo à gás (Py-GC/MS). A biomassa das PAC apresenta potencial para processos de conversão termoquímica de energia devido ao seu baixo teor de umidade e cinzas, além de 76,90% de materiais voláteis, densidade aparente de 252,6 kg/m3 e PCS igual a 16,24 MJ / kg. Os produtos da pirólise rápida são principalmente fenóis ou ácidos orgânicos leves derivados da decomposição de polissacarídeos. Os resultados confirmam o potencial das PAC para produzir bio-fenólicos, como o 4-metoxifenol que é um importante ingrediente ativo para despigmentação da pele usado em medicamentos e cosméticos, e como extrato fenólico que pode ser usado como precursor de resinas. Estas aplicações convertem esses resíduos florestais em produtos biológicos para a indústria em uma economia circular verde.

El compostaje de cáscara de Musa paradisiaca L. para la producción de biogás y biometano como estrategia de preservación de la salud ambiental / Musa paradisiaca L. husk composting for biogas and biomethane production as a strategy for preserving environmental health

A medida que a se avanza en el siglo XXI, los sistemas de energía deben alejarse de los combustibles fósiles y aumentar la capacidad de las energías renovables si se quieren cumplir los objetivos de temperaturas máximas del Acuerdo de París. Sin embargo, debido a los desafíos en la adopción de tecnologías bajas en carbono, ciertas áreas de los sistemas energéticos globales son difíciles de controlar y descarburar. Por otra parte, el compostaje es una de las prácticas de gestión de residuos orgánicos más importantes que se puede utilizar para lograr la sostenibilidad del suelo y del medio ambiente. El compost tiene un mínimo impacto en algunas emisiones, y puede ayudar a controlar la huella de carbono y limitar los efectos ambientales negativos de los métodos de eliminación de desechos más deficientes. La investigación tuvo por objetivo determinar la calidad de producir biogás y biometano a partir de la cáscara de plátano (Musa paradisiaca L.). Metodológicamente se desarrolló una investigación aplicada, con nivel de investigación de tipo experimental. Las cáscaras de plátano se colectaron de la planta de compostaje de la Municipalidad Provincial de Leoncio Prado, Perú. De la muestra se prepararon cinco sub muestras para la producción de biogás y cinco muestras adicionales para la producción de biometano. Los sistemas mostraron una producción de 0,067 m3 BG/Kg ST de biogás y 0,059 m3CH4/Kg ST de biometano, que generó subproductos como el biol y biosol. Estos resultados presentaron una baja toxicidad al ser sometidos a pruebas germinativas, concluyéndose que solo el 11,5% de la cáscara introducida al biorreactor se degrado y de esta fracción solo el 2,8% se convirtió en biogás(AU)

As progress is being made in the 21st century, energy systems must move away from fossil fuels and increase the capacity of renewable energies if you want to meet the maximum temperatures objectives of the Paris Agreement. However, due to the challenges in the adoption of low carbon technologies, certain areas of global energy systems are difficult to control and decarbure. On the other hand, composting is one of the most important organic waste management practices that can be used to achieve soil and environmental sustainability. The compost has a minimum impact on some emissions, and can help control the carbon footprint and limit the negative environmental effects of the most deficient waste removal methods. The research aimed to determine the quality of producing biogas and biomethane from the banana peel (Musa paradisiaca L.). Methodologically, an applied investigation was developed, with experimental research level. The banana peels were collected from the composting plant of the Provincial Municipality of Leoncio Prado, Peru. From the sample, five sub samples were prepared for the production of biogas and five additional samples for biomethane production. The systems showed a production of 0.067 m3 bg/kg ST of biogas and 0.059 m3ch4/kg ST of biomethane, which generated by -products such as biol and biosol. These results presented a low toxicity when they were subjected to germinative evidence, concluding that only 11.5% of the shell introduced into the bioreactor was degraded and of this fraction only 2.8% became biogas(AU)

Metagenomics approach to identify lignocellulose-degrading enzymes in the gut microbiota of the Chinese bamboo rat cecum

BACKGROUND: Lignocellulose is considered a renewable organic material, but the industrial production of biofuel from lignocellulose is challenging because of the lack of highly active hydrolytic enzymes. The guts of herbivores contain many symbiotic microorganisms that have evolved to hydrolyze plant lignocellulose. Chinese bamboo rats mainly consume high-fiber foods, indicating that some members of the intestinal tract microbiota digest lignocellulose, providing these rats with the energy required for growth. RESULTS: Here, we used metagenomics to analyze the diversity and functions of the gut microbiota in Chinese bamboo rats. We identified abundant populations of lignocellulose-degrading bacteria, whose main functions involved carbohydrate, amino acid, and nucleic acid metabolism. We also found 587 carbohydrate-active enzyme genes belonging to different families, including 7 carbohydrate esterase families and 21 glycoside hydrolase families. The glycoside hydrolase 3, glycoside hydrolase 1, glycoside hydrolase 43, carbohydrate esterase 4, carbohydrate esterase 1, and carbohydrate esterase 3 families demonstrated outstanding performance. CONCLUSIONS: The microbes and enzymes identified in our study expand the existing arsenal of proficient degraders and enzymes for lignocellulosic biofuel production. This study also describes a powerful approach for targeting gut microbes and enzymes in numerous industries.

Potential degradation and colonization time of ruminal microorganisms on the particles of different oilseeds-crushed, and its chemical composition

This study was carried out to evaluate by-product of the biodiesel industry as canola, safflower, forage turnip, and soybean crushed on the chemical composition, in situ degradability, and colonization time. Canola (Brassica napus L. var. oleifera), safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.), forage turnip (Raphanus stivus L. var. oleiferus Metzg), and soybean (Glycine max) grains went through the oil extraction process by means of a cold pressing, resulting in the oilseeds-crushed. The treatments identification included: CAN ­ Canola crushed; SAF ­ Safflower crushed; TUR ­ Forage turnip crushed; and SOY ­ Soybean crushed. The oilseed-crushed treatments were quantified about mineral (calcium, magnesium, copper, iron, manganese, zinc, phosphorus and potassium), chemical composition (dry matter, ash, organic matter, crude protein, ether extract, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, total carbohydrates, non-fibrous carbohydrates, and total digestible nutrient contents), In situ degradability, and colonization time. Magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc showed the greater values for TUR treatment 3.46, 27.4, 39.8, respectively, when compared to the other oilseed-crushed treatments. The TUR treatment had the lowest organic matter, whereas had the greater (p≤0.05; TUR and SOY treatments) for the non-fibrous carbohydrates. Ether extract was not affected (p>0.05) with the different oilseed-crushed treatments. Neutral detergent fiber was affected (p≤0.05) for CAN and SAF treatments with the greater values, 344 and 500 g/kg of dry matter, respectively. Soluble and potentially degradable fractions for SAF treatment showed similar results. Whereas the constant rate of degradation, presented the lowest value when compared to the other treatments. Effective degradability of crude protein was greater for CAN 63.2% than SOY 65.9% treatment, which had the lowest value. Potential degradability of crude protein did not differ between treatments. Colonization time for dry matter and crude protein were similar between TUR and SOY treatments. In conclusion, oilseeds-crushed from the biodiesel production can be targeted/used, as feed with great protein and energetic potential in the ruminant's production, considering the need of correct formulation and ingredients knowledge.

Sweet sorghum: broth clarification with enzymatic treatment increases the quality of the fermentation wort for ethanol production

Sweet sorghum is currently being evaluated throughout the world as a raw material for biofuel production because its stem juices are rich in sugars that can be directly fermented to ethanol. In this work, the fermentative efficiency of three sweet sorghum genotypes was evaluated, aiming at ethanol production, harvested in two seasons, clean and whole stems, and the treatment of the juice and broth with amylolytic enzymes in order to use the present starch to increase the production of ethanol. The experiment was carried out in the 2013/2014 harvest, in the municipality of Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brasil, located at 21°14'05''S and 48°17'09''W. The experimental design was completely randomized, with sub-subdivided plots and four replications. The primary treatments were the sweet sorghum genotypes (CV147, CV198, and BRS508), the secondary treatments, the type of harvest (whole stems and clean stems); the tertiary the two sampling times (102 and 116 days after sowing - d.a.s) and the quaternary the application of enzymes. In the fermentation process, the yeast PE-2 was used, at the end, the wine was recovered and characterized. Fermentation efficiency and liters of ethanol per ton of sorghum were calculated. The clarification of the juice with enzymatic treatment increases the quality of the fermentation broth and makes it possible to obtain wines with lower levels of RRTs and Brix. Fermentation efficiency is not affected by the genotype; however, it is influenced by the time of harvest and the technological quality of the juice. The use of amylolytic enzymes makes it possible to obtain wines with lower levels of RRTS and Brix. The best period of industrialization was at 102 d.a.s., and the processing of whole stalks resulted in less ethanol production.

Changes in freshwater sediment microbial populations during fermentation of crude glycerol

BACKGROUND: This work studied how the exposure to an unusual substrate forced a change in microbial populations during anaerobic fermentation of crude glycerol, a by-product of biodiesel production, with freshwater sediment used as an inoculum. RESULTS: The microbial associations almost completely (99.9%) utilized the glycerol contained in crude glycerol 6 g L 1 within four days, releasing gases, organic acids (acetic, butyric) and alcohols (ethanol, n-butanol) under anaerobic conditions. In comparison with control medium without glycerol, adding crude glycerol to the medium increased the amount of ethanol and n-butanol production and it was not significantly affected by incubation temperature (28 C or 37 C), nor incubation time (4 or 8 d), but it resulted in reduced amount of butyric acid. Higher volume of gas was produced at 37 C despite the fact that the overall bacterial count was smaller than the one measured at 20 C. Main microbial phyla of the inoculum were Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria and Firmicutes. During fermentation, significant changes were observed and Firmicutes, especially Clostridium spp., began to dominate, and the number of Actinobacteria and Gammaproteobacteria decreased accordingly. Concentration of Archaea decreased, especially in medium with crude glycerol. These changes were confirmed both by culturing and culture-independent (concentration of 16S rDNA) methods. CONCLUSIONS: Crude glycerol led to the adaptation of freshwater sediment microbial populations to this substrate. Changes of microbial community were a result of a community adaptation to a new source of carbon.

Effect of Agitation on Anaerobic Co-Digestion of Swine Manure and Food Waste

Abstract The synergism of food waste associated with swine manure can provide an increase in biogas production, besides promoting greater stability in the anaerobic co-digestion process. To verify this effect, co-digestion tests were performed in two reactors, one with agitation, and the other without agitation. In both systems, gasometers were used to measure biogas production in an experiment lasting two hydraulic retention times (HRT). On each feeding day, the temperatures of the ambient and of the effluent taken from the reactors were measured, and samples of the food waste and effluent were collected to perform analysis of pH, total solids (TS), volatile solids (VS), fixed solids (FS), volatile acidity (AV), and total alkalinity (TA). In addition, the chemical oxygen demand (COD) was determined every five days, and gas composition was determined at the beginning of the second HRT. As important results, in both reactors a decrease in pH was verified due to the weakening of the buffer effect of the medium. This was due to the low alkalinity found in the food waste, causing an increase in acidity in the contents of the reactors. The volume of biogas produced was higher in the reactor with agitation, which meant an increased efficiency of the process. Finally, a low methane content was verified through chromatographic analyses, indicating a reduction in the activity of the microorganisms present in the medium. Thus, it is concluded that agitation linked to anaerobic co-digestion of swine manure with food waste exerted a positive effect on biogas production.

Determination of Bioethanol Production from Apricot (Prunus armeniaca) Pomace

Abstract Fruit juice industry generates massive amount of lignocellulosic by-products annually which are excellent raw materials for bioethanol production. In the current study, bioethanol production from apricot (Prunus armeniaca) pomace by Kluyveromyces marxianus was investigated for the first time. Some key parameters for fermentation such as pretreatment methods, biomass and cellulase loading and time, were optimized. Kluyveromyces marxianus produced 30.09 g/L ethanol in the 20% washed apricot pomace and 120 FPU/g cellulose enzyme loading. The highest theoretical yield and Y P/S values were also observed as 94.7% and 0.50 g/g, respectively, when 15 FPU/g cellulose enzyme was used. These results depict that apricot pomace is a promising feedstock for bioethanol production.

Advances in Microalgal Research in Brazil

Abstract Microalgae research has attracted interest worldwide and in order to advance algal biotechnology in Brazil, government has been funding several projects. In the last 10 years, two main funds were provided by the National Council of Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq) agency to researchers in Brazil, who study the potential uses of microalgae for biomass, bioproducts and biofuels production. These funded projects addressed aspects of algal strain identification, development of algal cultivation techniques, designing photobioreactors and raceway ponds, modeling harvesting and dewatering process, maximizing biomass and oil productivities, characterizing chemical composition with different extractions systems and determining physiochemical properties of biodiesel. This review presents the state of art of algal research conducted by Brazilian institutions. Special attention is given to the recent progress on microalgal cultivation, high-value products extracted from microalgae and potential biofuels production. This review may serve as a policy instrument for planning next steps for algal research in Brazil as well as for attracting attention from international researchers who work with microalgae and would like to pursue a future partnership on algal research with Brazilian research institutions.

Energy values of crude glycerin for broilers / [Valores energéticos da glicerina bruta para frango de corte]

The energetic values of crude glycerin (CG) were determined for broilers at different ages using the method proposed by Matterson and by polynomial regressions. Two trials were performed with broilers from 11 to 21 and from 31 to 41 days of age. The birds were distributed in a completely randomized experimental design with a reference ration (RR), without CG, and three ration tests with replacement of 5%, 10%, and 15% of RR by CG. The metabolizable energy values were calculated by the Matterson method, and the apparent metabolizable energy (AME) values were used in polynomial regression analysis. The mean values of AME, apparent corrected for nitrogen balance (AMEn), metabolizable coefficient of gross energy (CAMEB), and corrected for nitrogen balance (CAMEBn) of CG, for the phase from 11 to 21 days by the Matterson method were 10.08 MJ kg-1, 10.04 MJ kg-1, 67.06%, and 66.74%, respectively. The inclusion of CG presented an increasing linear effect for CAMEB and CAMEBn in this period. From 31 to 41 days, these values were 10.38 MJ kg-1, 10.27 MJ kg-1, 69.02%, and 62.24%, respectively. The predicted AMEn value through the polynomial regression equations was 10.49 MJ kg-1 and 10.18 MJ kg-1, respectively. According to the equations proposed by Matterson, the crude glycerin EMAn values for broilers from 11 to 21 and 31 to 41 days of age were 10.04 MJ kg-1 and 10.26 MJ kg-1, respectively. According to Adeola's method the AMEn values were 10.49 and 10.20 MJ kg-1 for each phase.(AU)

Os valores energéticos da glicerina bruta (GB) foram determinados para frangos de corte em diferentes idades, por meio da utilização do método proposto por Matterson e de regressões polinomiais. Foram realizados dois ensaios: de 11 a 21 dias e de 31 a 41 dias de idade das aves; em ambos, as aves foram distribuídas em um delineamento experimental inteiramente ao acaso, com uma ração referência (RR), sem GB, e três rações testes com substituição de 5%, 10% e 15% da RR por GB. Foram calculados os valores de energia metabolizável pelo método de Matterson, sendo os valores de energia metabolizável aparente (EMA) utilizados na análise de regressão polinomial. Os valores médios da EMA corrigida pelo balanço de nitrogênio (EMAn), o coeficiente de metabolizabilidade da EB (CMAEB) e o corrigido para o balanço de nitrogênio (CMAEBn) da GB, na matéria natural, para a fase de 11 a 21 dias, pelo método de Matterson, foram de 10,08 MJ kg-1, 10,04 MJ kg-1, 67,06% e 66,74%, respectivamente. A inclusão de GB apresentou um efeito linear crescente para os CMAEB e os CMAEBn. Na fase de 31 a 41 dias, foram de 10,38 MJ kg-1, 10,27 MJ kg-1, 69,02% e 62,24%, respectivamente. Por meio das equações de regressões polinomiais, o valor de EMAn estimada foi de 10,49 MJ kg-1 e 10,18 MJ kg-1, respectivamente. Os valores de EMAn da GB para as idades 11 a 21 e 31 a 41 dias foram de 10,04 MJ kg-1 e 10,26 MJ kg-1, respectivamente. De acordo com as equações propostas por Matterson e com o método de Adeola, os valores de EMAn foram 10,49 e 10,20 MJ kg-1 para cada fase.(AU)

Metabolic characterization and oil profile of sunflower cultivars cultivated with increasing nitrogen doses / Caracterização metabólica e perfil do óleo de cultivares de girassol cultivados sob doses crescentes de nitrogênio

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) has great economic importance due to its oil yield and quality. Among the factors influencing these parameters, nitrogen fertilization stands out. In this study we evaluated the effect of different N-urea doses (0,10,30,50,90,130 kg N-urea ha-1) at planting and 30 days after emergency on soluble fractions, oil profile and yield of three sunflower cultivars (BRS324, Catissol 01and Neon). Plants were harvested at the flowering stage for metabolic study, and at the end of the cycle for oil extraction and characterization. The Catissol 01 genotype presented the highest N-NO3- accumulation capacity, mainly in the stem. The Neon genotype presented the highest achene production at 30 and 50 kg N ha-1. Oleic oil had the highest yield, with the Catissol 01 and Neon cultivar standing out. Among the cultivars, Catissol 01 is economically more suitable for biofuel production, when cultivated at 50 kg N ha-1 since higher N doses did not result in increased oil yield.

O girassol é uma espécie com importante valor econômico pela qualidade e rendimento de óleo. Entre os fatores que influenciam esses parâmetros se destaca a fertilização nitrogenada. Este trabalho avaliou o efeito de doses crescentes de N-uréia (0, 10, 30, 50, 90, 130 kg de N-Uréia ha-1 aplicadas no plantio e aos 30 dias após a emergência) sobre as frações solúveis, rendimento e perfil do óleo de três genótipos de girassol (BRS324, Neon e Catissol 01). As plantas foram coletadas no estádio de floração para o estudo metabólico e ao final do ciclo para a extração e caracterização de óleo. O genótipo Catissol 01 apresentou maior capacidade de acúmulo de N-NO3-, preferencialmente no caule. A maior produção de óleo por planta foi observada no BRS324, nas doses entre 30 e 50 kg N ha-1, embora o genótipo Neon tenha apresentado a maior produção de aquênios. O ácido oléico foi o de maior rendimento com destaque para os genótipos Catissol 01 e Neon. Dentre os genótipos avaliados, o Catissol 01 é economicamente mais indicado para a produção de óleo destinada ao biocombustível, quando cultivado com a dose de 50 kg N ha-1, pois doses superiores de N não resultam em aumento na produção de óleo.

Single cell oil production by a novel yeast Trichosporon mycotoxinivorans for complete and ecofriendly valorization of paddy straw

Background: Oleaginous yeasts can be grown on different carbon sources, including lignocellulosic hydrolysate containing a mixture of glucose and xylose. However, not all yeast strains can utilize both the sugars for lipogenesis. Therefore, in this study, efforts were made to isolate dual sugar-utilizing oleaginous yeasts from different sources. Results: A total of eleven isolates were obtained, which were screened for their ability to utilize various carbohydrates for lipogenesis. One promising yeast isolate Trichosporon mycotoxinivorans S2 was selected based on its capability to use a mixture of glucose and xylose and produce 44.86 ± 4.03% lipids, as well as its tolerance to fermentation inhibitors. In order to identify an inexpensive source of sugars, nondetoxified paddy straw hydrolysate (saccharified with cellulase), supplemented with 0.05% yeast extract, 0.18% peptone, and 0.04% MgSO4 was used for growth of the yeast, resulting in a yield of 5.17 g L−1 lipids with conversion productivity of 0.06 g L−1 h−1 . Optimization of the levels of yeast extract, peptone, and MgSO4 for maximizing lipid production using Box­Behnken design led to an increase in lipid yield by 41.59%. FAME analysis of single cell oil revealed oleic acid (30.84%), palmitic acid (18.28%), and stearic acid (17.64%) as the major fatty acids. Conclusion: The fatty acid profile illustrates the potential of T. mycotoxinivorans S2 to produce single cell oil as a feedstock for biodiesel. Therefore, the present study also indicated the potential of selected yeast to develop a zero-waste process for the complete valorization of paddy straw hydrolysate without detoxification

Perfil de ácidos graxos do leite de vacas Holandês x Gir alimentadas com silagem de milho e concentrado contendo ou não glicerina bruta / Milk fatty acid profile from Holstein x Gyr cows fed corn silage and concentrate containing or not crude glycerin

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o perfil de ácidos graxos (AG) do leite de vacas alimentadas com dietas à base de silagem de milho contendo 0% e 8,9% de glicerina bruta (GB) na matéria seca (MS). Foram utilizadas 18 vacas Holandês x Gir com 48±18 dias em lactação, produzindo 19,8±4,9kg/dia de leite. Utilizou-se delineamento de blocos ao acaso, com nove vacas/tratamento e duas medidas repetidas no tempo, com os resultados analisados por modelos mistos. A inclusão de GB na dieta não alterou a ingestão de MS, mas reduziu os consumos dos AG oleico, linoleico e α-linolênico. Os teores dos AG mirístico, palmítico, rumênico, vacênico, esteárico, oleico, linoleico, α-linolênico e CLA trans-10 cis-12 na gordura do leite foram semelhantes entre dietas. A inclusão de GB reduziu os teores dos AG elaídico e C18:1 trans-10 e aumentou os teores dos AG de cadeia ímpar linear e do ácido láurico. Não houve efeito da inclusão da GB sobre os índices de aterogenicidade e trombogenicidade da gordura do leite. Concluiu-se que a inclusão de glicerina bruta em dieta à base de silagem de milho não afetou a qualidade nutricional da gordura do leite de vacas Holandês x Gir.(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the milk fatty acid (FA) composition of cows fed corn silage-based diets containing 0% and 8.9% of crude glycerin (GB) on a dry matter (DM) basis. Eighteen Holstein x Gyr cows with 48±18 days in milk and producing 19.8±4.9kg milk/day were used in the study. The experimental design was a randomized block with nine cows per treatment and two repeated measures. Results were analyzed using mixed models. The milk fat contents of myristic, palmitic, rumenic, vaccenic, estearic, oleic, linoleic, α-linolenic, and trans-10 cis-12 CLA were similar between diets. Dietary inclusion of GB decreased elaidic and trans-10 C18:1, and increased lauric acid and odd linear-chain FA contents in milk fat. Both atherogenicity and trombogenicity indices were unaffected by GB inclusion. It was concluded that GB inclusion in corn silage-based diets had no effect on the nutritional quality of milk fat from Holstein x Gyr dairy cows.(AU)

Enhance of Cellulase Production and Biomass Degradation by Transformation of the Trichoderma reesei RUT-C30∆ zface1 Strain

Abstract The second-generation bioethanol employs lignocellulosic materials degraded by microbial cellulases in their production. The fungus Trichoderma reesei is one of the main microorganisms producing cellulases, and its genetic modification can lead to the optimization in obtaining hydrolytic enzymes. This work carried out the deletion of the sequence that encodes the zinc finger motif of the transcription factor ACE1 (cellulase expression repressor I) of the fungus T. reesei RUT-C30. The transformation of the RUT-C30 lineage was confirmed by amplification of the 989 bp fragment relative to the selection marker, and by the absence of the zinc finger region amplification in mutants, named T. reesei RUT-C30Δzface1. The production of cellulases by mutants was compared to RUT-C30 and measured with substrates carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), microcrystalline cellulose (Avicel®) and Whatman filter paper (PF). The results demonstrated that RUT-C30Δzface1 has cellulolytic activity increased 3.2-fold in Avicel and 2.1-fold in CMC and PF. The mutants presented 1.4-fold higher sugar released in the hydrolysis of the biomass assays. These results suggest that the partial deletion of ace1 gene is an important strategy in achieving bioethanol production on an industrial scale at a competitive price in the fuel market.

The effect of introduction of chicken manure on the biodiversity and performance of an anaerobic digester

Background: Ammonium stress is a prime limiting phenomenon that occurs during methane formation from poultry manure. It is caused by elevated ammonium nitrogen concentrations that result from substrate decomposition. The amounts of methane formed depend on the activity of methanogenic microbes. Results: During the research reported in this paper, the response of a mesophilic consortium inhabiting a biogas reactor to rising load of poultry manure was investigated. The taxonomic composition of bacterial population was mostly typical, however syntrophic bacteria were not detected. This absence resulted in limitation of succession of some methanogenic microorganisms, especially obligate hydrogenotrophs. The methanogenic activity of the consortium was totally dependent on the activity of Methanosaeta. Inhibition of methanoganesis was noticed at ammonium nitrogen concentration of 3.68 g/L, total cessation occurred at 5.45 g/L. Significant amounts of acetic acid in the fermentation pulp accompanied the inhibition. Conclusions: The effectiveness of the consortium was totally dependent on the metabolic activity of the acetoclastic Methanoseata genus and lack of SAOB did not allow hydrogenotrophic methanogens to propagate and lead to cessation of biogas production at an elevated ammonium concentration at which acetoclastic methanogens were inhibited.

Effective diffusion coefficients and bioconversion rates of inhibitory compounds in flocs of Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Background: Fermentation strategies for bioethanol production that use flocculating Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast need to account for the mechanism by which inhibitory compounds, generated in the hydrolysis of lignocellulosic materials, are tolerated and detoxified by a yeast floc. Results: Diffusion coefficients and first-order kinetic bioconversion rate coefficients were measured for three fermentation inhibitory compounds (furfural, hydroxymethylfurfural, and vanillin) in self-aggregated flocs of S. cerevisiae NRRL Y-265. Thièle-type moduli and internal effectiveness factors were obtained by simulating a simple steady-state spherical floc model. Conclusions: The obtained values for the Thiéle moduli and internal effectiveness factors showed that the bioconversion rate of the inhibitory compounds is the dominant phenomenon over mass transfer inside the flocs.

Acetone­butanol­ethanol fermentation from sugarcane bagasse hydrolysates: utilization of C5 and C6 sugars

Background: Fuels and chemicals from renewable feedstocks have a growing demand, and acetone, butanol and ethanol (ABE) are some relevant examples. These molecules can be produced by the bacterial fermentation process using hydrolysates generated from lignocellulosic biomass as sugarcane bagasse, one of the most abundant sources of lignocellulosic biomass in Brazil. It originates as a residue in mills and distilleries in the production of sugar and ethanol. Results: In the present work, two strategies to generate hydrolysates of sugarcane bagasse were adopted. The fermentation of the first hydrolysate by Clostridium acetobutylicum DSM 6228 resulted in final concentrations of butanol, acetone and ethanol of 6.4, 4.5 and 0.6 g/L, respectively. On the other hand, the second hydrolysate presented better results (averages of 9.1, 5.5 and 0.8 g/L, respectively), even without the need for nutrient supplementation, since key elements were already present in the medium. The productivity (QP) and yield (YP/S) of the solvents with second hydrolysate were 0.5 g/L•h-1 and 0.4 g/g, respectively. Conclusions: The results described herein open new perspectives for the production of important molecules from residual lignocellulosic biomass for the fuel and chemical industries within the context of second-generation biorefinery.

Purified glycerin in balanced diets for chicken broilers from 8 to 21 days old / Glicerina purificada em dietas balanceadas para frangos de corte dos 8 aos 21 dias de idade

This paper aimed to evaluate the metabolizability, performance and economic viability of purified glycerin inclusion in balanced diets fed to chicken broilers from 8 to 21 days old. Two experiments were conducted. In the first experiment, 100 broilers (14 days old) were distributed in a completely randomized design into two treatments, with five replications of 10 broilers. Treatments consisted of a control diet and a test diet, in which purified glycerin replaced 10% of the control diet. In the second experiment, 200 broilers (8 days old) were distributed in a completely randomized design into four treatments (0, 2, 4 and 6% of purified glycerin inclusion), with five replications of 10 broilers. The weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion, final weight, apparent metabolizable energy (AME), nitrogen-corrected apparent metabolizable energy (AMEn), metabolizability coefficients of dry matter (DMMC), crude protein (CPMC) and gross energy (GEMC), and the cost of feed per kg of broiler produced were evaluated. The AME, AMEn, DMMC, CPMC and GEMC from the purified glycerin were 3790 and 3560 kcal/kg, and 83.72, 71.52 and 86.27%, respectively. The glycerin levels did not affect (p>0.05) any of the performance characteristics (weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion and final weight). The lowest feeding cost and the highest gross margin were obtained for broilers fed with 6% purified glycerin. The inclusion of 6% purified glycerin in balanced diets for broilers from 8 to 21 days old was technically and economically feasible.

Objetivou-se neste trabalho avaliar a metabolizabilidade, o desempenho zootécnico e a viabilidade econômica da inclusão de glicerina purificada, em dietas balanceadas para frangos de corte dos 8 aos 21 dias de idade. Foram realizados dois experimentos, sendo que, no primeiro experimento, foram utilizados 100 pintos de 14 dias de idade, distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado (DIC), com dois tratamentos, cinco repetições de 10 aves. Os tratamentos consistiram de uma dieta referência e uma dieta teste, na qual a glicerina purificada substituiu 10% da dieta referência. No segundo experimento, foram utilizados 200 pintos de 8 dias de idade, distribuídos em delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado (DIC), com quatro tratamentos (0, 2, 4 e 6% de inclusão de glicerina purificada) e cinco repetições de 10 aves. Foram determinados o ganho de peso, consumo de ração, conversão alimentar, peso final, energia metabolizável aparente (EMA), energia metabolizável aparente corrigida pelo balanço de nitrogênio (EMAn), os coeficientes de metabolizabilidade da matéria seca (CMMS), proteína bruta (CMPB), energia bruta (CMEB) e o custo da alimentação por kg de frango produzido. A EMA, EMAn e os CMMS, CMPB, CMEB da glicerina purificada obtida foram de 3790, 3560 Kcal/kg e 83,72, 71,52, 86,27%, respectivamente. Observou-se que a inclusão de glicerina purificada não afetou (p>0,05) o desempenho (ganho de peso, consumo de ração, conversão alimentar e peso final). O menor custo com a alimentação e a maior margem bruta foi obtido com os frangos alimentados com 6% de inclusão de glicerina purificada. A inclusão de 6% de glicerina purificada em dietas balanceadas para frangos de corte dos 8 aos 21 dias de idade, mostrou-se técnica e economicamente viável.

Improvement of ethanol production from birch and spruce pretreated with 1-H-3-methylmorpholinium chloride

Background: Pretreatment is the critically important step for the production of ethanol from lignocelluloses. In this study, hardwood birch (Betula pendula) and softwood spruce (Norway spruce) woods were pretreated with a newly synthesized morpholinium ionic liquid, 1-H-3-methylmorpholinium chloride ([HMMorph][Cl]), followed by enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation to ethanol. Results: [HMMorph][Cl] was synthesized using inexpensive raw materials, i.e., hydrochloric acid and N-methyl morpholine, following a simple process. The influence of pretreatment time (2, 3, 5, and 8 h) and temperature (120 and 140°C) in terms of hydrolysis efficiency was investigated. Glucose yields from enzymatic hydrolysis were improved from 13.7% to 45.7% and 12.9% to 51.8% after pretreatment of birch and spruce woods, respectively, under optimum pretreatment conditions (i.e., at 140°C for 3 h) as compared to those from pristine woods. Moreover, the yields of ethanol production from birch and spruce were increased to 34.8% and 44.2%, respectively, while the yields were negligible for untreated woods. Conclusions: This study demonstrated the ability of [HMMorph][Cl] as an inexpensive agent to pretreat both softwood and hardwood.

Assessment of wasteland derived biomass for bioethanol production

Background: The bioethanol produced from biomass is a promising alternative fuel. The lignocellulose from marginal areas or wasteland could be a promising raw material for bioethanol production because it is present in large quantities, is cheap, renewable and has favorable environmental properties. Despite these advantages, lignocellulosic biomass is much more difficult to process than cereal grains, due to the need for intensive pretreatment and relatively large amounts of cellulases for efficient hydrolysis. Therefore, there is a need to develop an efficient and cost-effective method for the degradation and fermentation of lignocellulosic biomass to ethanol. Results: The usefulness of lignocellulosic biomass from wasteland for the production of bioethanol using pretreatment with the aid of ionic liquids of 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate and 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride was evaluated in this study. The pretreatment process, enzymatic hydrolysis and alcoholic fermentation lasted a total of 10 d. The largest amounts of bioethanol were obtained from biomass originating from agricultural wasteland, in which the dominant plant was fireweed (Chamaenerion angustifolium) and from the field where the common broom (Cytisus scoparius) was the dominant. Conclusions: The plants such as fireweed, common broom, hay and goldenrod may be useful for the production of liquid biofuels and it would be necessary in the further stage of research to establish and optimize the conditions for the technology of ethyl alcohol producing from these plant species. Enzymatic hydrolysis of biomass from agricultural wastelands results in a large increase in fermentable sugars, comparable to the enzymatic hydrolysis of rye, wheat, rice or maize straw.