Optimization of clean fractionation process applied to switchgrass to produce pulp for enzymatic hydrolysis

► Clean fractionation (CF) processing was performed on switchgrass (SG). ► Processing mass balances and composition analyses were performed on the pulp, hemicellulose and lignin separated fractions. ► Pulp fractions were enzymatically hydrolyzed and glucose yields were measured. ► High lignin and xylan removal from biomass were obtained. ► Enzymatic hydrolysis produced high glucose yields (more than 90% were obtained for selected optimal conditions).