Optimization and Partial Purification of Cellulase for Enhanced Lignocellulosic Biomass Hydrolysis

Abstract

Cellulase enzyme plays a critical role in the bioconversion of lignocellulosic biomass into fermentable sugars for bioethanol production and agricultural waste valorisation. The present study is based on the evaluation of the best carbon and nitrogen source with their optimum concentrations to maximize cellulase production followed by partial purification of the enzyme to enhance its activity. The optimum nitrogen and carbon sources were 0.4% tryptone and 3% wheat bran extract, attaining a enzyme hydrolysis zone of 0.67 cm. Enzyme activity was improved after partial purification by Ammonium sulphate precipitation (0–70%) and dialysis. Enzymatic hydrolysis using 15% (w/v) cellulase resulted in a substantial enhancement in reducing sugar yield as quantified by the DNS assay. These results highlight the potential application of cellulase in improving animal feed quality and bioethanol production to support waste utilization and renewable energy development.