Effects of ultrasound energy on degradation of cellulose material

The rationale for selection of waste cellulose source and method for its degradation, such as ultrasound, aeration and coupled energy, is examined. Consideration is given to the availability of waste material for the conservation of global resources, pollution effects from energy forms and efficiency of energy transfer. Availability of the sources and possible ways of converting them to fuels, processes involved in its production and the possible effects on the environment are discussed. Manufactured cellulose and waste paper are used as the source for these experiments and the rationale behind their use in the environment is analysed. An ultrasound reactor that operates at 80 W and 38 kHz was used in breaking down the samples to produce glucose and other chemical species. One of the routes being explored is the further conversion of these molecules into fuel (alcohol). (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.