The Solid-state Fermentation of Sugarcane Bagasse Using Aspirgillus niger sp. for Cellulase Production

Abstract

Sugarcane bagasse, a major agricultural byproduct of the sugar industry in Malaysia, is often underutilized and contributes to environmental pollution when improperly disposed. The conventional production of cellulase enzymes is expensive and highly dependent on imported resources, creating financial and environmental challenges. In response to these issues, this study explored the potential of utilizing sugarcane bagasse as a substrate for cellulase production via solid-state fermentation (SSF) using Aspergillus niger sp. The main objectives were to evaluate the effectiveness of sugarcane bagasse as a substrate for SSF, determine cellulase enzyme activity during fermentation, and identify the optimal fermentation duration for maximum enzyme yield. The study involved preparing dried, ground sugarcane bagasse, inoculating it with A.niger sp., and fermenting under controlled conditions. Enzyme activity was measured using the filter paper method over a 9-day period at intervals of 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 days.