Enhancing Bioethanol Production from Banana Peel Biomass Using Photoactivated Nanoparticles: A Study of CoFe2O4 and g-C3N4 Composites

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of various nanoparticles, specifically cobalt ferrite (CoFe₂O₄), graphitic carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄), and their composite (CoFe₂O₄/g-C₃N₄), on the ethanol production capabilities of Saccharomyces cerevisiae using banana peel biomass. Notably, the control group without any nanoparticle addition yielded a modest 11.157% bioethanol. However, the introduction of 100 ppm of CoFe₂O₄ nanoparticles significantly enhanced ethanol production, achieving 52.157%. Additionally, increasing the concentration of the CoFe₂O₄/g-C₃N₄ composite from 0 mg to 100 ppm resulted in a notable improvement, reaching an ethanol yield of 35.44%. Even with 100 ppm of g-C₃N₄ alone, ethanol production increased to 23%. To further optimize the fermentation process, the study also examined the effects of visible light irradiation on ethanol production, both in the presence and absence of these nanomaterials. The results revealed that light irradiation could stimulate bioethanol production by 15.44% compared to the control. When light was combined with nanoparticles, the stimulatory effects were even more pronounced, indicating that light-activated nanoparticles represent a promising strategy for enhancing ethanol yields. The findings highlight the potential of CoFe₂O₄ nanoparticles, particularly when photoactivated, to significantly elevate ethanol yields from banana peels. Furthermore, the study identifies the optimal concentration of the CoFe₂O₄/g-C₃N₄ composite as a viable pathway for sustainable bioethanol production. This research not only advances the understanding of nanomaterial applications in fermentation processes but also contributes to the development of more efficient and eco-friendly strategies for renewable fuel generation.