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Topic 1 - Biological Deconstruction of Lignocellulose

Led by Harivony RAKOTOARIVONINA & Gabriel PAËS

Goal is to identify, characterize and control the features and their interactions which determine the biological deconstruction of lignocellulosic substrates. Substrates considered are crop residues and plant litters, co-products from transformation processes (wheat bran) and dedicated crops (short rotation coppices, energy crops, fibre plants).

First, results are related to the hydrolysis of lignocellulose in reactors to make products used as final products or as intermediary products to make other biomolecules of interest (chemicals, fuels) and bio-based materials.

In soils, results apply to the decomposition of lignocellulose substrates in soils, which is a major process affecting the biogeochemical C, N and P cycles, critical to maintain ecosystem services.

Topic 2 - Agromaterials & Biomolecules

Led by Véronique AGUIE-BEGHIN & Françoise BERZIN

The targeted biomolecules are functionalized sugars (glycosides, polysaccharides) obtained by different enzymatic and/or chemo-enzymatic pathways (transglycosylation by hydrolases, esterification by lipases, catalysis, oxidation by oxidases,…) provided with functional properties such as surfactant properties, antioxidants, biological, antimicrobial or film-forming for applications in the cosmetics, detergents, health, optical (coating, casting) sectors.

The bio-based materials activity aims to the development of bioinspired polymer materials (predominantly agro-sourced) and composites (in particular based on lignocellulosic fibers) at macro and nano scales, in order to develop new materials fully «green» and lightened with high added-value properties.

These materials are processed respectively by surface deposition techniques (Langmuir-Blodgett, spin-coating, casting, ...) or twin-screw extrusion.

Cross-topic Conceptualization & Modeling

Led by Gwenaëlle LASHERMES

The aim of the cross-topic animation “Conceptualization and modelling” is to understand and predict the transformation processes of lignocellulosic biomasses identifying the markers of these transformations. In FARE laboratory, we develop computational models which involve complementary research themes:

• the defibration process to produce bio-composites
• the deconstruction of lignocellulosic biomass
• the biodegradation of plant litter in soil

The dynamic multi-scale models, rely on experimental results and are used as guide to direct and hierarchize experimental efforts in FARE.

Cross-topic Trade-offs in the uses of Biomass

Led by Bernard KUREK

This theme aims to link the valuation of ecosystem services in plant biomass production with the valuation of environmental and functional services of biosourced products from biomass processing.

It applies to FARE to the development of biomass quality concept, in its various meanings, a central point that links ecosystem services and product ecodesign.