Production of second-generation ethanol from the cellulose contained in green coconut

Abstract

This paper has the purpose of evaluating the viability from the production of second generation ethanol from the cellulose contained in green coconut. To do so, Topics as fermentation inhibitors, the fermentative process itself and the analysis of the acid hydrolysis methodology are discussed. Thus, a study about how viable would be to produce a biofuel using the mesocarp of the green coconut as a source was made, concluding that theoretically the yield of ethanol from the green coconut is inferior comparing to the sugarcane bagasse, however, in sustainable and enviromental aspects, is considerable to be done. The coconut consume generates not only industrial but also coastal regions waste, and there are very few discussions about ways to reuse that waste. The biofuels production, specifically of the second generation ethanol, brings a solution to this problem. The chemical aspects about the green coconut reuse are still little widespread, being common the use of sugarcane, however, the yield by using the green coconut can expand the biofuel production and also revolutionize the industry with the utilization of this new source.