ABSTRACT
High-solids enzymatic hydrolysis is the rate-limiting step in the conversion and utilization of lignocellulose. Inhomogeneity of trace enzyme and bulk substrate mixing may be a main barrier to the enzymatic hydrolysis efficiency at high-solids loadings. This chapter elucidates the basis for the division of the different stages in high-solids mixing and enzymatic hydrolysis, and systematically analyzes the changes in the rheological and porous properties of the substrate and the water properties of the system at different stages. As periodic forces can reduce water binding of substrates and enhance mass transfer, premixing and process intensification by periodic forces including periodic peristalsis and periodic vibration can effectively improve high-solids enzymatic hydrolysis efficiency. By identifying the characteristics of high-solids system mixing and enzymatic hydrolysis, the development of effective enhancement measures provides guidance for lignocellulosic refining.
