Study of Different Bio-Processing Pathways in a Lignocellulosic Biorefinery by Process Simulation

Abstract

In the present study, different bio-transformation stages were simulated by Aspen Plus® for the obtaining of different bio-products (ethanol, lactic acid, xylitol and citric acid) from a pretreated lignocellulosic feedstock. For this purpose, experimental and literature data were used for proper design of involved treatments and operations. As common starting point of all the proposed bio-processing scenarios, the solid fraction resulted from the delignification pretreatment of the lignocellulosic feedstock was hydrolyzed, in order to dissolve lignocellulose and enhance bio-transformation of carbohydrates. The resulting fractions were subsequently treated with different microorganisms depending on the required final bio-product. Finally, separation and product recovery stages were simulated.