Fundamental Understanding of Cellulose Dissolution Can Improve the Efficiency of Biomass Processing

Abstract

A major barrier to the efficient utilization of biomass is the recalcitrance to dissolution of crystalline cellulose. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the current understanding of the mechanism and kinetics of cellulose dissolution, with particular attention on how these findings can improve the efficiency of biomass processing. An improved fundamental understanding of cellulose dissolution can guide the rational selection of solvents and the optimization of processing conditions, thus leading to an enhanced utilization of biomass.