Preservation of bagasse using microbial growth/enzyme inhibitors as biotech preservatives

Abstract

Exposure of bagasse to 4 biotech preservatives such as neembicide, multicide, copper sulphate and celphos (reference standard) was explored for its preservation at 200 kg scale for 6 months under ambient conditions, mimicking pulp and paper mill practices. Bacterial and fungal count, temperature and pH, reducing sugars and soluble content, fibre and pith content and cellulose/hemi-cellulose were monitored at a monthly frequency to judge the efficacy of the above preservatives. Among them, neembicide appeared to be superior to others, besides being cost-effective by virtue of superior fibre/cellulose protection, it is eco-friendly by virtue of being biodegradable and operationally practical preservative on the basis of parameters monitored. Its application is suggested for large scale trials.