Advancements in Biomass Degradation: The Role of Cross-linked Endocellulase in Agroindustrial Waste Processing

Abstract

Most of the agricultural residues contain high cellulosic wastes like peanut husks, citrus peels, rice/wheat straw, corn stovers, sugarcane bagasse, cardboards, wood chips, plant materials from the eucalyptus tree, sun hemp, and miscanthus. A crucial stage in the processing of biomass is the hydrolysis of cellulose, which necessitates the use of efficient cellulase. To overcome the challenges posed by the hydrolysis of the resistant substrate from various agroindustrial wastes, endocellulase is a sustainable option. Endocellulase is more expensive and has less activity of function to use soluble endocellulase against agrowaste degradation. Using immobilization technology, the enzyme can become insoluble. It alters endocellulase activity, stability, and reusability. Insoluble endocellulase can be highly helpful for high cellulose degradation. In this chapter, detailed mechanisms and pathways of cellulose degradation by cross-linked endonuclease have been discussed. With the help of different case studies, the applicability of endonuclease from various microorganisms has been elucidated. Moreover, cross-linking preparation methods and endocellulase immobilization strategies have also been elaborated. Overall, the chapter gives the scope to opt for immobilized endocellulase as a faster degradation option on a large scale to produce different by-products like various organic acids, production of food and feed, and other value-added products, including compost. © The Editor(s) (if applicable) and The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2024.