Biochemical Wastewater Valorization and Engineering

Lignocellulose Pretreatment & Bioconversion

Microbial detoxification, a new step in the biorefinery?

It may soon be possible to convert toxic phenols released during the use of lignocellulose biomass in biorefineries into raw materials for paints, printing inks, lubricants and cleaning products. The UAntwerpen is developing a way in which micro-organisms convert the toxins into oil. A toolbox of means is used to obtain maximum efficiency and productivity. This technology paves the way to a cleaner society.

Improving and characterizing solid-state fungal pretreatment by Phanerochaete chrysosporium for sugar production from poplar wood

Biological pretreatment of wood by white-rot fungi is an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical and physical approaches to enhance enzymatic saccharification. However, inefficient lignin degradation and substantial cellulose consumption during fungal pretreatment can cause low sugar yields. But the addition of supplements significantly improves the fungal delignification process. Therefore, this research investigated the effect of metal ions on the separate components of the complex fungal pretreatment system, i.e. enzyme, fungal growth and substrate. This will enable decreased cellulose consumption and improved lignin degradation during fungal pretreatment of poplar wood by Phanerochaete chrysosporium.

Energy transition fund – The energy of the future (ADV_BIO)

The burning of fossil fuels is warming up our planet and we are all aware that something needs to be done. The production of bioethanol and biodiesel from food materials such as wheat, rapeseed, soybean and palm oil is a greener alternative to traditional fuels and is already commercialised in Belgium. On the other hand, this requires a lot of land that could have been used for food production. Therefore, the technological obstacles in the production of advanced biofuels have to be removed. These fuels of the future will use microalgae, corn stover and poplar wood as the feedstock, ensuring a green and more land-efficient alternative. The University of Antwerp specifically focuses on innovative technology to convert optimised corn stover and poplar wood to bioethanol while using environmentally friendly conditions. Together, we will help nature to fuel the future!