Mass Multiplication, Production Cost Analysis, and Marketing of Cellulase

Abstract

Cellulases are a complex group of enzymes secreted by a variety of microorganisms such as fungi, bacteria, and actinomycetes, that depolymerize cellulose and convert it to glucose. The potential of cellulolytic enzymes in bioconversion processes has been extensively investigated, and they play an important role in a variety of industrial applications. Cellulase, a key enzyme for cellulose-rich waste feedstock-based biorefineries, is in high demand across a wide range of industries, including biofuel production, paper and pulp manufacturing, textile polishing and finishing, agriculture, and juice clarification. Furthermore, there has been continuous progress in developing new technologies to improve its production, such as the use of waste feedstock as the substrate, process parameter control, and genetic manipulation for enzyme production with increased yield, quality, and specificity. Furthermore, an understanding of mass production techniques for controlling the cost of enzymes on an industrial scale is presented. Although submerged fermentation (SmF) is the most commonly used method for commercial enzyme production, solid-state fermentation (SSF) is regarded as a promising method to produce higher enzyme titers than SmF. The purpose of this chapter is to provide new researchers and entrepreneurs with information on the classification, mechanisms, sources, mass production techniques, potential applications, market trends, and approximate cost estimation for cellulase production.