Purification of acidic lignocellulose hydrolysate using anion-exchange resin: Multicomponent adsorption, kinetic and thermodynamic study

Acid hydrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass to produce high value-added products presents a breathtaking in-dustrial application foreground. However, the hydrolysate under harsh conditions contains extremely complex degradations, resulting in many restrictions or lethal toxicity on the following utilization and bioconversion. In this study, the anion-exchange resin 335 was exploited to separate and purify main degradations from the acidic corncob-hydrolysate. A comprehensive investigation was explored on equilibrium isotherms, adsorption kinetics, and thermodynamic parameters of the representative substances in the hydrolysate. The results indicated that the removal of acetic acid, furfural, and lignin reached 90.13%, 92.58%, and 94.85% respectively, while the loss rate of xylose was well controlled within 20%. Based on these studies, various models and parameters were evaluated to uncover the mechanisms. In conclusion, this work offered a theoretical basis for the application in the separation and purification of acidic lignocellulose-hydrolysate and further bioconversion.

Automated summary

The acid hydrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass has potential for industrial applications, but the complex degradation products in the hydrolysate can have restrictions and toxicity on subsequent utilization. This study used anion-exchange resin to separate and purify the main degradation products from acidic corncob-hydrolysate, with significant removal of acetic acid, furfural, and lignin while minimizing loss of xylose. The results provide a theoretical basis for the separation, purification, and bioconversion of acidic lignocellulose-hydrolysate.