Biorefining: the role of endoglucanases in refining of cellulose fibers

Abstract With an annual production of more than 400 million tons, paper is the main product largest biorefinery process industrially implemented. Enzymes have been used for pulp refining to dramatically reduce energy consumption. However, exact mechanisms related individual enzymes are hardly understood. Yet, this knowledge would be important predict enzyme performance in industrial processes. Three commercial formulations showed different endoglucanase (1.25 nkat mg −1 –13.7 ), β-glucosidase (0.57 –1.34 ) and xylanase activities (1.78 ml –62.1 on model substrates. Additionally, distinct amounts reducing sugars from hardwood sulfate were released. Endoglucases purified each formulation by using hydrophobic interaction anion exchange chromatography molecular weights 20 55 kDa specific ranging between 3.11 26.3 according derivatized cellopentaose (CellG5). Refining trials conducted a PFI laboratory mill fiber properties such as degree or length formed sheets like tensile index monitored. Thereby, dosed based identical activity CellG5. Enzyme endoglucanases led increase up 47.9 [°SR] at 6000 revolutions while was improved 76.0 Nm g . In summary, effects can primarily attributed indicating CellG5 being suitable parameter dosing.