Converting Waste Agricultural Biomass into a Resource - UNEP

The xylose sugar, which comprises about 80 - 90% of the water soluble
neutral sugars, converts to furfural (an industrial solvent) or to xylitol, a
sweetener similar to glucose. Xylitol has a proven therapeutic value in the
prevention of dental carries and plaque (Oral Health – September 1988).
Main Products: Xylitol, Lignin, unbleached cellulose, sorbitol and fructose
The current major market for xylitol is for chewing gums, a small health food
market and dental care uses. Health organizations are actively promoting the
use of xylitol in various countries. In the United States, the Federal Food and
Drug Administration (FDA) has approved xylitol for special dietary uses (FDA
reference – 172.395). The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has approved
xylitol as a food additive that can be used as a sweetener. In Europe and
Asia, xylitol is promoted as a cavity fighter.
The dissociated feedstock material after the water extraction, when combined
with a non-toxic catalyst can produce a hard, plastic-like material called lignin
that can be used for the production of construction materials, furniture
components and other related items. In addition, the dissociated feedstock
material can be recombined in a variety of other ways to produce a range of
finished materials using this technology.
Operation and Maintenance Requirements:
Cellulose Xanthate, the first cellulose derivative for producing rayon is not a
chemically stable product. Thus, the conversion of the cellulose to xanthate
has to be made at the spinning or casting facilities.
Social Considerations
Ethanol produced from cellulosic feedstock contributes to the long term
viability of ethanol as a competitive and cost effective complement to nonrenewable
petroleum production.
Economic Instruments for Overcoming Barriers
NovaGreen Inc. is working closely with the local agri-business community,
and the regional government, to ensure success of the project, and integration
to the community on several levels. The project is endorsed by Killam and
District Business Development Association, Battle River Agri-Ventures Co-op,
and the Town of Killam, among numerous additional supporters.
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