Evaluation of alkaline-assisted wet-storage of energycane bagasse

Wet storage (ensiling) is a common method of preserving lignocellulosic biomass. In wet storage, the biomass is directly preserved by ensiling immediately after harvest at relatively high moisture content. During wet storage, microorganisms consume oxygen and convert sugars to acids, which creates an anaerobic environment that avoids further microbial growth. The addition of lactic acid bacteria, fungi or alkaline compounds during the ensiling can enhance this process. In this study, the effect of sodium hydroxide on wet storage of energycane bagasse was investigated. Various concentrations of sodium hydroxide were applied to energycane bagasse at 45% and 75% moisture content and stored for 60 days at 30ºC. Subsamples were taken at predetermined time periods, analyzed for lignin, glucan and xylan content, and hydrolyzed with commercially available enzymes.