Biomass characteristics and ethanol production of yellow poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera) treated with slurry composting and biofiltration liquid as fertilizer

The main purpose of this study was to examine the influence of slurry composting and biofiltration liquid fertilizer (SCBLF) treatment on the biomass characteristics and ethanol production of yellow poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera). The relative growth rate, biomass production, and chlorophyll content were significantly increased by SCBLF treatment. Nutrients in SCBLF caused an increase in chlorophyll content, which led to improved biomass production (3.4%) and increased glucose content (9.8%). Organosolv and dilute acid pretreatment for ethanol production were carried out, and the pretreatment processes were conducted at the same solid to liquid ratio (1:10), reaction temperature (150 °C), preheating time (40 min), and residence time (10 min). The water insoluble solid recovery of organosolv pretreatment with 1% sulfuric acid on SCBLF-treated yellow poplar was the lowest (46.7%). Exchangeable cation contents in SCBLF enhanced the pretreatment effect by reducing glucose degradation. Simultaneous saccharification and fermentation processes were carried out to determine the ethanol production of the pretreated biomass. Organosolv pretreatment with 1% sulfuric acid on SCBLF-treated biomass resulted in the highest ethanol production (39.68 g L−1) and yield based on initial weight (18.66%).

► We examine biomass characteristics of yellow poplar depending on SCBLF treatment.
► Inorganic compounds in SCBLF increase biomass production and glucose content.
► Organosolv and dilute acid pretreatment are carried out for ethanol production.
► Organosolv pretreatment with 1% H2SO4 results the highest ethanol production.