Enzymatic hydrolysis and characterization of lignocellulosic biomass exposed to electron beam irradiation

► A perennial hybrid grass was characterized and exposed to 0, 75, 150 and 250 kGy of electron beam irradiation (EBI). ► Enzymatic hydrolysis of the EBI exposed samples showed significantly higher reducing sugar and glucose yields compared to control. ► IR crystallinity index and degree of crystallinity was lower for the treated samples than control. ► A strong negative correlation between degree of crystallinity and glucose yield was observed. ► The biomass sample used showed properties suitable as a fuel crop.