已证中试！杨世辉教授&费强教授：生物乙醇经济生产新突破

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the upcoming 2026 Bio-based Conference and Exhibition in Shanghai, focusing on the advancements in cellulosic bioethanol production using genetically engineered Zymomonas mobilis, highlighting its potential for sustainable energy and environmental benefits [1][2]. Group 1: Event Overview - The 2026 Bio-based Conference will take place from May 20-22 in Shanghai, featuring 11 thematic forums, 7 concurrent activities, 1000 new product displays, and an industry award ceremony aimed at promoting green transformation in the industry [1]. - The event will also host the 5th Bio-based Frontier Technology Young Scientist Forum, emphasizing visibility for young scientists with 80 presentations scheduled [1]. Group 2: Technological Advancements - Research led by Professor Yang Shihui and Professor Fei Qiang has successfully engineered Zymomonas mobilis to produce ethanol from agricultural waste, specifically corncob residues, demonstrating commercial viability and environmental benefits [2][5]. - The engineered strain ZET5 showed a 122% increase in ethanol yield compared to the control strain, with significant improvements in biomass and ethanol production rates [6][8]. Group 3: Process Validation - The study confirmed the stability of the enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation processes across different scales (5 L, 50 L, and 30 m³), achieving consistent glucose concentrations and ethanol yields [9][10]. - The fermentation process using ZET5 in a 30 m³ pilot scale produced 1.29 tons of ethanol from 5.4 tons of dry corncob residues in just 16 hours, showcasing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the method [11]. Group 4: Economic and Environmental Analysis - A techno-economic analysis indicated that the minimum selling price of bioethanol could range from $0.58 to $0.79 per kg, making it competitive with fossil fuel ethanol priced at $1.08 per kg [14]. - Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) revealed a 57% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil gasoline, with potential carbon revenue enhancing economic competitiveness [16][17]. Group 5: Future Prospects - The ZET5 strain integrates energy-saving and protein stability strategies, proving its robustness in industrial fermentation settings, positioning Zymomonas mobilis as a viable platform for lignocellulosic biorefinery [20]. - The technology is applicable to other agro-industrial wastes, such as wheat straw and sugarcane bagasse, indicating its versatility across different regions and crops [21].