Dissolution and Kinetic Fundamentals Underlying Novel Cellulosic Biomass Pretreatment Technologies (TSE99-F)

Dartmouth College, Hanover NH

Investigators

Abstract

The goal of this project is to study biomass pretreatment behavior to develop models that describe flow-through processes and explain differences from cocurrent approaches. In particular, a novel mechanism based on dissolution of hemicellulose and lignin has been proposed, and models will be developed to compare this mechanism to current representations. Batch solubility and kinetic data will be developed and used in the models to predict performance of flow-through systems when controlled by conventional kinetic behavior versus dissolution and solubility limits in different combinations with reaction and mass transfer effects. Model predictions will then be compared to detailed time and position dependent flow-through data to determine which best describes experimental results. The final goal is to provide new data, models, insight, and mechanisms that will facilitate the development and commercialization of low cost pretreatment technologies. This research is part of the NSF/EPA - Technology for a Sustainable Environment (TSE) initiative.