Optimization of process variables for metallic nanoparticle inclusion in bioethanol synthesis of sugar cane bagasse

Abstract Nano catalyst inclusion in bioprocesses operation such as ethanol help increase process efficiency and complement optimization studies for biorefinery operations. In this study, process variables affecting nanoparticle inclusion in the production of bioethanol from sugar cane bagasse were statistically modeled and optimized. Production of bioethanol was done using the submerged fermentation technique. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used to model the process by considering four parameters viz; SCBH conc (g/l), iron (III) oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs) concentration (w/v), time (h), and pH which were varied using Box Behnken Design. The process variables were analysed and fitted using the quadratic model. The findings revealed the optimal condition of 0.04 (w/v) of nanoparticle, pH of 4.5, time at 12 h, and SCBH concentration of 42 g/l resulting in the bioethanol yield of 32%. The predicted optimal condition was validated in replicate and the average of 32.7% yield of ethanol was obtained. The study confirms nanoparticle inclusion has a significant effect on the yield of bioethanol. The increasing bioethanol yield, at the optimum conditions established the significance point of nanoparticle inclusion for the scale-up development of bioethanol production from sugar cane bagasse.