Effect of magnesium oxide pretreatment on the delignification and enzymatic hydrolysis of corncob

Pretreatment process is a critical technological step in the bioconversion of lignocellulose. In the present work, magnesium oxide (MgO) was applied in corncob pretreatment for improving the lignin removal and subsequently enhancing the sugar yield via enzymatic hydrolysis. Results showed that a lignin removal of 19.18 % was achieved when the corncob was pretreated with 0.1 mol/L MgO at a solid to liquid ratio of 1:10 and 190 degrees C for 50 min. Compared to raw material, the pretreated corncob exhibited looser surface, higher crystallinity index and higher content of cellulose. Under the optimal pretreatment conditions, glucose yield of 68.13 %, xylose yield of 25.93 %, and total sugar yield of 49.68 % were obtained via enzymatic hydrolysis of corncob. This work would be helpful in updating the corncob pretreatment process and promoting the valorization of corncob.

Automated summary

In this study, magnesium oxide was used for pretreatment of corncob to improve lignin removal and enhance sugar yield through enzymatic hydrolysis. Under optimal conditions, a high glucose and xylose yield was obtained. This work contributes to improving the corncob pretreatment process and promoting its utilization.