The development of processes to convert lignocellulosic biomass into ethanol and other chemicals is being enthusiastically pursued by the federal government as well as by private organizations. However, before these processes can be made cost effective, new materials are needed that are resistant to abrasion and corrosion in the aggressive streams associated with lignocellulosic processing - for example, in the removal of suspended solids from the hydrolysate produced in the pretreatment of biomass. This project will develop low-cost inorganic microfiltration membranes that have the requisite abrasion resistance and chemical durability for use in the clarification of hydrolysate generated during pretreatment. In Phase I, membrane fabrication and synthesis parameters were developed on laboratory-scale, ceramic membrane coupons. The performance of the new membrane was then demonstrated on a pretreated, corn stover hydrolysate sample. In Phase II, the membranes will be further optimized and scaled to produce pilot-scale elements. Field testing of the membrane elements will be conducted on hydrolysate streams.
Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The new membranes should find use in the separation and isolation of the sugars produced during the hydrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass. If chemicals can be produced from biomass sugars, the process of converting biomass to ethanol would become more cost effective, providing Americans with an abundant supply of fuel and reducing the need to import petroleum. Other applications of the membrane technology include clarification processes in the production of sweeteners, sugars, and fruit juices
