Production of Cellulosic Fuels

Bio-fuels (fuels derived from renewable bio-sources) are important alternatives to future energy needs. Bio-ethanol is one such fuel. This paper reviews various processes and techniques involved in the production of bio-ethanol from cellulose and lignocellulose bio-mass. Experimental details are discussed for hydrolysis & the depolymerisation of cellulose to glucose and the subsequent biological/chemical formation of glucose to produce fuel derivatives. Use of ionic liquids during chemical fermentation is also discussed. Kinetics of the enzymatic hydrolysis have been mathematically modeled. Limitations of bio-ethanol and its possible replacement by bio-butanol in future is also briefly discussed.