LAUSR

Phytomass processing is hindered by a complex matrix of lignin and cellulose that is synthesized by plants as part of their natural defense against predators. Inspired by ruminants, bacteria, or fungi, many methods to overcome this hardly digestable lignocellulose structure have already been proposed. For its ability to possibly recover energy, under-hot-water maceration that is followed by a steam-explosion is often used in biogas plants, bioethanol refineries and even during the processing of sludge from sewage treatment plants. Quality indicators of organic matter in the phytomass, however, are variable in relation to the storage method, fertilization, the uniqueness of the growing season, and the like. Therefore, the processing parameters of chosen technologies should always be precisely tailored to avoid the formation of substances that would inhibit subsequent processing. The existing methods, such as high-performance liquid chromatography, are time consuming and relatively expensive with a rapidly growing number of samples. The conclusiveness and valuation of the financial indicators of new biological methods have proven a high informative value and revealed new opportunities in the optimization of the process.