Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Acceptance Date: July 24, 2004
Publication Date: August 24, 2004
Citation: Orts, W.J., Imam, S.H., Glenn, G.M., Wong, D., Inglesby, M.K., Guttman, M.E., Samac, D.A. 2004. Envisioning Biorefineries Based On Utilization Of Lignocellulosic Straws And Bagassess. 227th National Meeting Of The American Chemical Society, Anaheim, Ca.

Technical Abstract: Several concurrent strategies have been employed to facilitate creation of an agricultural biorefinery in which all components of crops and their residues are processed at one site into fuel, and value-added biobased products. Research activity will be highlighted in the following areas: (1) Genetic modification of alfalfa plants to produce polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), (2) Optimal fractionation of the plant cell wall components to optimize isolation of all components, including PHA, (3) Creation of composites and nanocomposites from the cellulosic fractions of these bagasses and straws, and (4) development of advanced enzymes for biomass hydrolysis and conversion. Pioneering application of Directed Molecular Evolution (DME) has been employed to improve enzymes that break-down and modify cellulose and hemicellulose from crop residues. As will be discussed, adding value to ag-based cellulosics will depend on optimal usage of multiple complex component streams.