Optimizing delignification and saccharification process for sawdust processing using a central composite design

Lignocellulosic mass consists of cellulose, hemicelluloses, and lignin. Although biomass promises to be efficiently used for biofuel production and many other value-added products, lignin present in lignocellulosic biomass affects the hydrolysis of cellulose and hemicelluloses, making it necessary to develop techniques that provide better lignin removal efficiency and high cellulose hydrolysability. The current work aims to maximize lignin removal in sawdust and develop an understanding of the hydrolysis of pretreated biomass for sugar production. Different parameters such as solvent to solid ratio, temperature, and reaction time have been considered based on the design of experiment to understand the effect on the delignification and saccharification processes. After treating sawdust for 1.5 h, it was observed that a maximum of 85% lignin was removed at a temperature of 131°C and solid loading of 16 g. Subsequent hydrolysis of delignified sawdust at 131°C temperature, solvent to solid ratio 15, and 0.5 h resulted in a maximum reducing sugar production of 26.82 mg/mL. The study elucidated the optimum conditions for the effective processing of sawdust in terms of delignification and saccharification, leading to maximum benefits in lignin removal and sugar production.