Rapid Analysis of Key Compounds in Bioethanol Fermentation
Author Information
Author(s): Scott M Davies, Rob S Linforth, Stuart J Wilkinson, Katherine A Smart, David J Cook
Primary Institution: University of Nottingham
Hypothesis
Can atmospheric pressure chemical ionisation mass spectrometry (APCI-MS) be used effectively for the rapid analysis of acetic acid, formic acid, furfural, and ethanol in bioethanol fermentation?
Conclusion
APCI-MS is a rapid and effective technique for quantifying acetic acid, formic acid, furfural, and ethanol in bioethanol fermentation with minimal sample preparation.
Supporting Evidence
- APCI-MS can analyze up to 120 samples per hour.
- The technique requires only a 20-minute equilibration period and 20 seconds for headspace analysis.
- Strong correlations were observed between APCI-MS and HPLC data for ethanol and inhibitors.
Takeaway
This study shows that a special method can quickly measure important chemicals in making bioethanol, which helps scientists understand how to make it better.
Methodology
The study used atmospheric pressure chemical ionisation mass spectrometry (APCI-MS) to analyze acetic acid, formic acid, furfural, and ethanol in samples from bioethanol fermentation.
Potential Biases
Potential competition for ionization in the APCI source may affect the accuracy of acetic acid measurements.
Limitations
The APCI-MS technique cannot quantify nonvolatile degradation products from lignocellulosic pretreatment hydrolysates.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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