An overview of factors influencing the enzymatic hydrolysis of lignocellulosic feedstocks

Lignocellulosic biomass conversion to ethanol promises to provide an environmentally benign alternative fuel that can reduce the consumption of gasoline, thereby reducing our dependence on a non-renewable energy source and improving the urban air quality. The process of microbial degradation of biomass is not understood at the molecular level and yet it is clear that many microorganisms have evolved diverse mechanisms to accomplish this task. We review current concepts regarding enzymatic hydrolysis of bioethanol feedstocks and point to technical challenges requiring further R and D.