Feasibility to producing second generation bioethanol in Bolivia

Abstract

Bioethanol produced worldwide is mostly obtained from agricultural crops such as sugarcane and corn. However, it has negative environmental effects, so opportunity for producing bioethanol from agricultural waste arises. This study evaluates the feasibility to produce second generation bioethanol from orange waste (peel and bagasse) generated in the province of Chapare, Bolivia. Bioethanol production yield estimation is carried out by theoretical and experimental ways, DNS and HPLC methods are used for the quantification of reducing sugars, produced by acidic and enzymatic hydrolysis of the waste. Regarding the results obtained, the best alternative in terms of bioethanol production is the enzymatic hydrolysis. An economic and environmental impact evaluation are also included considering the production of bioethanol from real orange residues. The determined price of bioethanol production is USD 0.78 per liter.