Enzymatic hydrolysis of the gelatinous layer in tension wood of Salix varieties as a measure of accessible cellulose for biofuels

Abstract Background Salix (willow) species represent an important source of bioenergy and offer great potential for producing biofuels. spp. like many hardwoods, produce tension wood (TW) characterized by special fibres (G-fibres) that a cellulose-rich lignin-free gelatinous (G) layer on the inner fibre cell wall. Presence increased amounts TW G-fibres represents cellulose. In present study, presence in whole stems different varieties was (i.e., physical measurements, histochemistry, image analysis, microscopy) as possible marker availability freely available cellulose releasing d -glucose. Stem cross sections from (Tora, Björn) were TW, subjected to cellulase hydrolysis with free -glucose produced determined using glucose oxidase/peroxidase (GOPOD) assay. Effect progressive G-layer followed light microscopy after staining scanning electron (SEM). Results Tension G-layers developed multilaterally all studied. Tora Björn showed non-lignified variable thickness. showed: (i) Differences total % at stem heights; (ii) 3-day incubation period 50 °C, could be hydrolyzed no apparent ultrastructural effects lignified secondary wall layers middle lamellae other elements; (iii) correlating amount heights together density, estimate can derived compared between varieties. These values used literature value (45%) estimating contribution played content. Conclusions The section-enzyme method provides viable approach compare ability thus fermentation biofuel production. use rather than comminuted biomass allows direct correlation tissue- types release. allowed entire production digested G-layers. further emphasize importance G-fibre enhanced release