Solvent extraction of antioxidants from steam exploded sugarcane bagasse and enzymatic convertibility of the solid fraction

► Antioxidants were solvent-extracted from steam exploded sugarcane bagasse (SESB). ► Solid, phenolic and total sugar yields of different extractions were different. ► The extracts showed potent antioxidant activities. ► Enzymatic convertibility of solid fraction after extraction was enhanced.