Enhancing the hydrolysis and acidification of steam-exploded cornstalks by intermittent pH adjustment with an enriched microbial community

► An effective cellulose-degrading microbial community was enriched. ► Intermittent pH adjustment enhanced hydrolysis and acidification of steam-exploded cornstalks. ► Major acidification products (acetate and propionate) were increased with pH enhancement. ► Composite microbe analysis showed different strains were dominant due to pH shift.