Characterization of agro-industrial residues and development of processing strategies for conversion to bioethanol

Renewable sources of chemical energy, such as plant biomass, are needed for synthesizing future liquid transportation fuels. However, the structural complexity and heterogeneity of plant biomass can result in low rates of carbohydrate-to-fuel conversion and often requires costly pre-processing techniques. As a result, plant materials that are abundant, cheap to produce, are socially responsible and have an easily amendable composition are required. Two agro-industrial biomasses derived from Agave and Vitis vinifera (grape) marc are studied here to determine their chemical compositions, their efficiency of conversion to fermentable sugars and to estimate subsequent ethanol yields.Thesis (Ph.D.) (Research by Publication) -- University of Adelaide, School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, 2015