Preparation of cellulose from wood or other lignocellulose-containing plants by microbiological degradation of the lignocellulose

摘要

A process for obtaining cellulose from wood or other lignocellulose-containing plants with the aid of a white rot fungus (Pleurotus ostreatus) is described, using suitable enzymes (preferably laccases, peroxidases) to control the degradation process. The fibrous substance to be processed is mechanically comminuted and then mixed with a nutrient solution. Care must be taken in this connection that the degree of acidity is pH 5.6. This substrate, consisting of fibrous substance and nutrient solution, is inoculated with spores of Pleurotus ostreatus and exposed to a gentle circulation of air at 95% relative humidity, temperature 27 DEG C and illumination with about 25 lux. In order to increase the rate of lignin degradation after a certain time, extracellular enzymes (laccases, peroxidases) are added to the substrate, and the temperature is increased to about 50-55 DEG C while retaining the 95% relative humidity and illumination with 25 lux. After the required degradation of lignin has been achieved, the resulting fibrous product is washed, dried and irradiated.