Response surface approach for the Biodegradation of pretreated coir pith using Aspergillus nidulans SU04 for cellulase production

The present study is aimed at the synthesis of cellulase by Aspergillus nidulans SU04 using coir pith as chief substrate. The rate of enzymatic hydrolysis is increased by alkalipre-treatment with Sodium hydroxide. The effect of fermentation conditions including coir pith weight, moisture content, initial pH and growth temperature on cellulase activity and cellulase yield were investigated by response surface methodology (RSM) employing a four- factor- five- level central composite design (CCD). The results of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-Ray diffraction (XRD) and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of coir pith showed structural changes through pretreatment, in favour of enzymatic hydrolysis.