Chemical pretreatment

Chemical pretreatment involves using specific chemicals to modify biomass, such as plant materials, to make them easier to process into fuels or products. This process breaks down complex structures like lignin and hemicellulose, which protect cellulose fibers, thereby increasing their accessibility. By doing so, it enhances the efficiency of subsequent steps like enzymatic digestion or fermentation. Common chemicals used include acids, bases, or solvents, tailored to the type of biomass and desired outcome. Overall, chemical pretreatment is a crucial step in converting raw biomass into valuable bio-based products.