Efficient acid-catalyzed hydrolysis of cellulose in organic electrolyte solutions

A novel method for cellulose hydrolysis catalyzed by mineral acids have been developed in organic electrolyte solutions at 70 °C under atmosphere pressure without pretreatment. Several reaction parameters including reaction time, temperature, catalyst loading and the ratio of ionic liquids to organic solvents have been evaluated and optimized. Under optimal conditions, the maximum total reducing sugars (TRS) yield in 68.8% and glucose yield in 39.2% were obtained in 1.0 g NMP/3.0 g [Bmim]Cl system at 70 °C. Due to the low temperature of cellulose hydrolysis, this method shows a promising potential as an energy-efficient and cost-effective approach for the biorefinery of lignocellulosic biomass.