Submitted to: American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 3/17/2025
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: The utilization of waste lignocellulosic biomass is a promising pathway for improving the circularity of agronomy and horticulture-based industries. The initial resurgence of hemp (Cannabis sativa) production in the US has been driven by a demand for cannabidiol (CBD) rich inflorescence, generating large amounts of lignocellulosic biomass (30-70% of total plant dry weight) that is considered a waste among floral-centric producers and processors. High-CBD hemp plants have large diameter stalks that are generally unsuited for decortication. Only recently has research began to investigate the utilization of biomass from high-CBD type hemp; in contrast with the hurd obtained from decorticating and thin straw residues remaining from grain harvests. Hydrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass has traditionally relied on the use of hazardous chemicals. Subcritical water (SCW) is a green alternative to solvents employed for in this process (1000.5 MPa,T<180°C), significant lignin removal and hemicellulose hydrolysis is achieved. The result is a hydrolysate rich in C5 sugars and solid fraction of concentrated cellulose. At more severe reaction conditions (P>8MPa,180