Substrate Concentration

Higher substrate concentrations affect the agitation, lower oxygen transfer rates and reduce the availability of enzymes, hence limiting the rate of cellulolytic enzyme synthesis (Oashima et al. 1990). The enzyme synthesis rate is directly proportional to substrate intake. Cellulose and xylans are insoluble polymers that could lead to a longer lag phase during enzyme fermentation. A supplement of soluble sugars alongside lignocellulosic biomass plays an important role in inducing enzyme production. Both the carbon and nitrogen sources are equally important requirements in the enzyme synthesis. Urea and aqueous ammonium hydroxide are potential nitrogen sources.