Exploring Bio-Ethanol Production from Fruit Wastes Through Fermentation with Saccharomyces Cerevisiae and Aspergillus Niger
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Bioethanol, a sustainable alternative fuel derived from organic materials, is essential for addressing global energy demands and environmental concerns. This study aimed to produce bioethanol from banana and mango peels using co-cultures of Aspergillus niger and Saccharomyces cerevisiae through a simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) process. Fully ripened banana and mango peels, obtained from a local market, were dried, ground into fine particles, and used as substrates for bioethanol production. The fermentation process was carried out by sequentially inoculating the substrates with Aspergillus niger to enhance starch hydrolysis, followed by Saccharomyces cerevisiae to facilitate fermentation. The process lasted for 7 days under controlled conditions, with a pH range of 5.5-6.0 and a temperature of 28±2°C. Among the tested samples, the mixed substrate of banana and mango peels yielded the highest ethanol concentration at 79% (w/v), while mango peels alone produced 74% and banana peels produced 71%. The enhanced performance of the mixed substrate highlights the synergistic effect of combining different fruit wastes. The presence of Aspergillus niger played a crucial role in breaking down complex starches into simpler sugars, enabling Saccharomyces cerevisiae to effectively convert these sugars into ethanol. This study demonstrates the potential of fruit waste, specifically banana and mango peels, as cost-effective and sustainable raw materials for bioethanol production, providing a promising alternative to fossil fuels. Future research should focus on optimizing fermentation conditions, exploring the potential of additional fruit waste substrates, and scaling up the process for commercial viability.
Authors: Debebe Lata, Lukas Birhanu, Mohammed Lengichow, Getnet Degemu, Tsegaye Atnaf, Ayansa Kebenessa
Institution: Wolkite University
Language: English
Subfield: Biomedical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
Funder: Wolkite University
OpenAlex ID: W4406105835