AGRE-0047 Biopulping and Biobleaching

Contacts
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ECLAIR Cluster II - Lignocellulose : Paper/Pulp : Pulping : Wood (Lignocellulose)

AGRE-0047 Biopulping and Biobleaching 1 December 1991 - 30 November 1992

This project investigated the feasibility of producing paper pulp from various raw materials, including eucalyptus chips and straw, using biological methods as substitutes for the alkali and chemical (chlorine) bleaches used at present. To produce pulp (release the cellulose fibres) from the plant cell wall material, the bulk of the hemicellulose and lignin components must be removed and residual lignin discoloured. A number of different types of filamentous fungi which grow on dead plant material produce enzymes which are capable of breaking down hemicellulose and lignin without adversely affecting the cellulose fibres. A detailed investigation has matched some of these organisms and enzymes they produce with the various stages of pulping and bleaching. At the same time various reactors have been developed for these stages. Areas of commercial potential have been identified.

Contacts

Coordinator

• Jose Cardoso Duarte / INETI Depto de Biotecnologia / PORTUGAL

EC Scientific Officer

• Ignacio SEOANE / European Commission DG Research Theme 1 Key Action 5.3 / BELGIUM