Review on optimised process parameters of bioethanol production for environmental sustainability

Abstract. Water hyacinth is a commonly grown aquatic plant. It causes a menace in water bodies due to its large mat formation. It is removed from water bodies through physical, chemical, or biological methods. These methods are costly and ineffective as the plant grows again quickly. Since the plant is easily available, it has been explored as a potential source of lignocellulose biomass for biofuel production. This review paper reflects upon the important steps in processing water hyacinth plants for producing biofuel. A quick summary of the research concerning pre-treatment methods, enzyme hydrolysis, and fermentation studies shows that acid pre-treatment followed by cellulase enzyme hydrolysis and using acidic conditions for fermentation up to 3 days at room temperature gives optimum ethanol and sugar yields. The main challenge in the commercialization of bioethanol production from water hyacinth biomass is the low ethanol yield obtained as compared to other feedstock like sugarcane bagasse and corn stover. However, from an environmental point of view, by converting waste biomass into a valuable energy resource, bioethanol production from water hyacinth promotes a circular economy and sustainable resource management.