Investigation of molecular and supramolecular assemblies of cellulose and lignin of lignocellulosic materials by spectroscopy and thermal analysis

The study of lignocellulosic materials calls for understanding the structure, and function of different cellulosic materials from diverse sources to scale-up cellulosic ethanol production. For the first time, a systematic assessment of the molecular and supramolecular structure highlighting the similarities and dissimilarities of three major categories of lignocellulosic materials: wood-based (cedar and oak), energy crop (bamboo), and agricultural or forestry waste (palm) are reported. The cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin constituents were compared for their suitability in cellulosic ethanol production. FTIR showed structural variations within the functional groups with notable OH group in the palm and CC group in cedar. From the X-ray scattering, bamboo exhibited the highest crystallinity (49.5%), and palm showed the lowest crystallinity (22.6%) and crystallite size (2.6 nm). TGA revealed high cellulose amount and stable structure for cedar and oak, and the most unstable structure in the palm, which indicates a better cellulose/hemicellulose accessibility and biodegradability for enzymatic or chemical action in the palm. This comparative assessment can greatly facilitate material selection and component mixture, for developing an efficient and cost-effective biochemical process in ethanol manufacturing.