College of Engineering

Ryan Light

College of Engineering

Chemical Engineering

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Nicolas J. Alvarez

Chemical & Biological Engineering

Characterization and Fermentation of Waste Bagasse

Paper from non-traditional sources is becoming increasingly important to the paper market. Conventional processes of paper pulping create significant waste streams that are considered toxic to the environment. New softer paper pulping technology utilizing sugarcane bagasse results in lignocellulosic waste streams with refining potential. In this project we identify the dissolved and undissolved species via filtration, precipitation, and analytical methods such as mid-FTIR. We have identified key ingredients as unsulfonated lignin, dissolved sugars, and a species that resembles xantham gum. The relative quantities of these species are reported and compared to multiple samples provided by the industry partner. The potential of using the waste stream as a source of bio-ethanol via fermentation is also explored. We examine the viability of three different yeast strands: generic beer, generic bread, and specific Saccharomyces strands.