A simple pentose assay for biomass conversion studies

Summary A colorimetric method was modified for monitoring pentose release and utilization in the hydrolysis and fermentation of biomass substrates to fuels and chemicals. The proposed assay was specific for pentose monomers. Quantitation of pentoses by the assay method was not significantly interfered by other lignocellulosic components, common fermentation medium ingredients, and major volatile fermentation products encountered in biomass conversion processes. The assay procedure did not require sample pretreatment (e.g. deproteinization, desalting, or furfural extraction). Sugar estimation basing on the present assay correlated well with conventional sugar analysis by high performance liquid chromatography.