Research Projects

Objective: The main objective is to develop an integrated and cost-effective technology to enhance microcrystalline cellulose and reducing sugar production from abundantly available Agriwaste feedstock and maximizing resource recovery through commercially lucrative high heating value lignin.Processing and characterization of Agri-waste feedstockOptimization of Agri-waste PretreatmentProcess optimization and intensification for targeted products (MCC, Reducing sugars and lignin) and their characterizationDesign of Integrated Biorefinery Unit (IBU)Installation and operation of IBU under optimized conditionsLife cycle assessment for sustainability analysisTechno-economic analysis of IBU

Summary: With an alarming need for energy, food security and proper waste management in India, agri-waste feedstock can serve as a solution to these challenges when driven by an effective and simple technology for the production of valuable products. Agri-waste feedstocks are exemplary substrate for valorization as India stands 2nd globally in agricultural output. India is 2nd largest producer of rice and contributes ~15% of annual agriculture GDP. The biochemical composition of rice straw (30–45% cellulose, 20–30% hemicelluloses and 15–25% lignin) reflects its potential to cater as ideal substrate for platform chemical production. Thus the proposal aims at valorization of rice straw through integrated biorefinery approach.