Sugarcane straw and its cellulosic fraction as raw materials for obtainment of textile fibers and other bioproducts

Abstract

This chapter describes the different ways of performing sugarcane straw exploitation. This is an important agro-residue in Brazil that has a wide range of feasible applications. For these specific usages, it is essential to have an effective knowledge on the sugarcane straw fiber related to its chemical composition (lignin and carbohydrate contents) and on cellulose extraction processes. We address the recent studies on biological processes, such as alternative pretreatment in combination with chemical processes and bleaching methods for residual lignin removal. This chapter also addresses some recent examples on the production of ethanol, bio-oil, enzymes, composites, and pulps from sugarcane straw. In addition, we discuss the development of lyocell textile fibers. The scientific and technological advances in the exploitation of sugarcane straw have a strong appeal, and the use of an agro-residue in this application is an important issue.