Bioethanol Production from Sugarcane Bagasse by Fermentation Process Using Saccharomyces cerevisiae as Yeast Species
Kafe Bakali and Ampeire Wycliffe
ABSTRACT
Bioethanol is a renewable energy source derived from the fermentation of plant sugars and starches. It is generated using agricultural crops including maize, rice, sugarcane, potatoes, and beets, as well as waste items such as grapes, bananas, dates, and others. The majority of energy consumption in Uganda is derived from fossil fuels, including coal, crude oil, and natural gas. Regrettably, a significant issue has arisen due to the depletion of natural resources and the subsequent increase in greenhouse gas emissions, hence exacerbating global climate change. Hence, it is crucial to establish a sustainable energy source that has a reduced impact on the climate. The objective of this research was to efficiently generate bioethanol from sugarcane bagasse via the process of fermentation using Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The study also sought to assess the impact of pH and temperature on both the yield and concentration of bioethanol in water. Alpha-amylase and glucoamylase enzymes were used to degrade the cellulose present in sugarcane bagasse. In the experiment, fermentation was carried out using yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) as well. Five samples were subjected to various preparation methods, with pH being altered to assess the impact of pH on bioethanol production at a consistent temperature of 350C. Another set of five samples was created to evaluate the influence of temperature on bioethanol yield while maintaining a constant pH level of 4.5. The potency of bioethanol was calculated using the formula (100-A) × 0.5714, using the standard spirit table and readings from the Sikes hydrometer and thermometer. These measurements were taken during the distillation process of the bioethanol acquired by a rotary evaporator. The findings indicated that the optimal bioethanol concentration in water was achieved at a pH of 4.5 and a temperature of 35°C. The yeast cells (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) were found to make bioethanol most effectively at a pH of 4.5 and a temperature of 35°C.
Keywords: Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Bioethanol, Sugarcane bagasse, Fermentation, Temperature, pH
CITE AS: Kafe Bakali and Ampeire Wycliffe (2024). Bioethanol Production from Sugarcane Bagasse by Fermentation Process Using Saccharomyces cerevisiae as Yeast Species. IAA Journal of Applied Sciences 11(3):32-41. https://doi.org/10.59298/IAAJAS/2024/113.3241