Journal of Biotechnology & Biomaterials
Open Access

Abstract

An investigation into the production of biofuel from whole sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) an underutilized crop under laboratory condition was carried out. The techniques used during the production method were both the fermentation and gasification methods. The volume of production for both methods were obtained, analyzed and compared. The Fermentation method of sorghum yielded more biofuel in the form of bioethanol. A known volume of fermentation liquor was distilled and the temperature in the column was maintained at a certain temperature. The fermentation rate, gasification rate, the temperature and the pH values were assessed. 500g of the malted sorghum produced 5% of bioethanol while the same weight of sorghum for the gasification method produced 3% biofuel. Microbial examinations were carried out and the various micro- organisms involved in the entire process were isolated and identified. The findings of this investigation in relation to the generation of alternative source of energy which is environmentally friendly without the emission of carbon compounds which causes pollution in Nigeria are discussed.

Biography

Ijeoma Adaku Nwaukwu (MSc, BSc) is a Lecturer at the Department of Plant Science and Technology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Jos, Plateau state, Nigeria. She is a Scientist with high interest in research and new scientific discoveries. She has to her credit about 10 Academic publications in reputable Journals. She has participated in academic conferences where she presented her scientific findings to the delight of those in attendance. She also has keen interest in human development. This is seen in her flair to help less privileged women and children.