Major
Chemistry
Department
Chemistry
Degree
Undergraduate
Mentor
Darrin L. Smith
Mentor Department
Chemistry
Recommended Citation
Howdieshell, Casey J., "Effects of Dissolution of Biomass in Ionic Liquids Using Direct Analysis in Real Time (DART) Mass Spectrometry" (2014). University Presentation Showcase Event. 12.
https://encompass.eku.edu/swps/2014/2014/12
Abstract
Biomass has become increasing important in recent years. Through pretreatment and saccharification processes sugars produced by algae result in biofuel production. For these processes to occur, cellulose must be separated from hemicellulose and lignin components. Major obstacles in development of these processes is lignin, an organic polymer that contributes to plant cell wall stability. Ionic liquids are low-temperature molten salts that possess chemical and physical properties which aide in dissolution of whole biomass. This study focuses on the interactions of quiescent switchgrass (Panicum vigatum) with nine different ionic liquids. These interactions were tested using microscopic techniques as well as Mass Spectrometry coupled with a DART ion source. The capacity for dissolution in various ionic liquids were quantified. Results from these studies show the effectiveness and parameters for separation of biomass components. Effective separation will lead to a better biofuel yield as well as potential for commercial scale lignin production.
Presentation format
Poster
Expected Graduation Date
2014
Effects of Dissolution of Biomass in Ionic Liquids Using Direct Analysis in Real Time (DART) Mass Spectrometry
Biomass has become increasing important in recent years. Through pretreatment and saccharification processes sugars produced by algae result in biofuel production. For these processes to occur, cellulose must be separated from hemicellulose and lignin components. Major obstacles in development of these processes is lignin, an organic polymer that contributes to plant cell wall stability. Ionic liquids are low-temperature molten salts that possess chemical and physical properties which aide in dissolution of whole biomass. This study focuses on the interactions of quiescent switchgrass (Panicum vigatum) with nine different ionic liquids. These interactions were tested using microscopic techniques as well as Mass Spectrometry coupled with a DART ion source. The capacity for dissolution in various ionic liquids were quantified. Results from these studies show the effectiveness and parameters for separation of biomass components. Effective separation will lead to a better biofuel yield as well as potential for commercial scale lignin production.
