Common Reed (Phragmites australis), Eradicate or Utilize? Part I: Potential Use as a Biochemical Feedstock

Abstract

The potential usefulness of common reed as a biomass feedstock has been investigated. Part I of this investigation focuses on results from above ground biomass subjected to hot water extraction (HWE) prior to soda pulping. Results are compared to soda pulping only. Up to 12.8% of biomass feed (oven dry basis) may be removed by HWE. The extract contains up to 19 mmol/L of reducing sugars available for further processing into biofuel or other biochemicals. Common reed soda pulp after HWE provided lower pulp yield with higher lignin and higher pentosans content relative to reed biomass feedstock that was soda pulped only. Differences in process variables may explain some apparent inconsistencies. Soda pulps (both with and without HWE) were subjected to further bleaching and pilot scale papermaking processes. Bleaching results and paper properties are reported in Part II of this investigation.