Effect of Dilute Sulfuric Acid Hydrolysis of Coconut Dregs on Chemical and Thermal Properties

Coconut dregs is a residue of coconut milk production, have no others usage except as animal food. It contains main components of lignocellulosic materials and high carbohydrate content. However, there are lack of study and understanding regarding properties of coconut dregs as useful products. In addition, the physical and chemical barriers due to the complex bonds of cellulosic compound hinder the hydrolysis hemicelluloses and cellulose into fermentable sugars. Thus, the main purpose of this study was to investigate the hydrolysis of coconut dregs for the production of glucose at various times. Coconut dregs were subjected to dilute sulfuric acid (1%) hydrolysis at 130 °C and varying hydrolysis time (30, 60 and 90 min). The prehydrolyzate from this process was characterized by Biochemistry analyzer for glucose concentration analysis. Higher glucose concentration (0.38 g/l) was reached at a residence time of 60 min. Chemical and thermal properties of the solid residue were also carried out. The results demonstrated a reduction in chemical and thermal of solid hydrolyzed fraction compared to raw state. Meanwhile, FTIR spectra revealed no significant changes in cellulosic compound when coconut dregs were hydrolyzed at different time. TGA and DTG analysis showed almost similar range of cellulosic compound degradation temperature after hydrolysis.