Xylitol production from corncob hydrolysate using polyurethane foam with immobilized Candida tropicalis

► PUF was used as C. tropicalis carrier in the multi-batches fermentation of xylitol. ► Optimization of immobilized fermentation parameters and study of batches fermentation. ► The PUF immobilization is an efficient and durable way to improve the fermentability. ► This novel process is simple, low cost and clean even has potential to application.