Properties of Bacillus species Cellulase Produced Using Cellulose from Brewers Spent Grain (BSG) as Substrate

Abstract

The properties of extracellular cellulase obtained from Bacillus species (FIIRO Strain B223) on supplying cellulose from Brewers Spent Grain (BSG) were studied. Generally, a crude cellulase activity between 11,757 Units to 13,930 Units was observed for both sources of carbon (BSG and crystalline cellulose). The optimum pH and temperature of 5.0, and 30˚C - 40˚C for both sources of carbon was observed. Heavy metals such as copper, zinc, and iron inhibited the activities of B223 cellulase while the cellulase activities on alkaline earth metal (manganese) were moderate. The co-factor behaviour of manganese ion was also established. Local production of cellulase in Nigeria using local raw materials such as Brewers Spent Grain reduces enzyme cost; cost of finished products and increases gross domestic products.