Abstract
This chapter presents a technical protocol for cellulase enzyme production via solid-state fermentation (SSF) using groundnut (Arachis hypogea L.) shells, a lignocellulosic agro-waste, as a substrate. Groundnut shells, containing 65.7% cellulose and 59.0% crude fiber, are pretreated using alkaline hydrolysis to disrupt lignocellulosic bonds and facilitate microbial access. Aspergillus niger, known for its cellulolytic capabilities, is used as a microbial agent. The chapter describes the preparation of spore suspensions, substrate sterilization, and inoculation processes to ensure optimal conditions for fungal growth. SSF is conducted at 30 °C under controlled moisture and humidity conditions, enhancing enzyme–substrate interaction. Cellulase extraction involves buffer-mediated recovery, followed by centrifugation and filtration to isolate crude enzyme. Cellulase activity is quantified using a filter paper assay (FPA), with reducing sugars measured spectrophotometrically via the dinitrosalicylic acid (DNS) method. This methodology maximizes cellulase yield, aligning with sustainable bioresource valorization within the circular bioeconomy framework.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Fruit and Vegetable Waste Valorization |
| Editors | Kandi Sridhar, Venkata Seshamamba Burla, Minaxi Sharma, Baskaran Stephen Inbaraj |
| Publisher | Springer Nature |
| Chapter | 7 |
| ISBN (Electronic) | 97810716449047 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9781071644898 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 26 Apr 2025 |