Molecular identification of microbial communities in the methane production from vinasse: A review

Abstract

Sugars, starches, and cellulose materials are used for ethanol production. When producing a liter of alcohol, 10 to 15 liters of liquid waste are generated. This waste is called vinasse, and it generates negative impacts on the environment. The process of storing and disposing vinasse in soils generates emissions to the atmosphere, mainly methane. Anaerobic treatment allows for the capture and generation of more biogas, therefore allowing mitigation of the environmental impacts. The microbial diversity present in the anaerobic digestion (AD) of vinasse is strongly related to the efficiency and quality of methane production. The gene 16s rDNA-based molecular techniques have been the most commonly used techniques for monitoring microbial communities present in the digesters. However, the identification is not enough. Rather, it is necessary to know the metagenomic functionality in this type of habitat. This review provides a comprehensive overview of methods to identify the microorganisms in the anaerobic digestion of vinasse. In addition, microbial community identification in vinasse reactors and their relationship with methane production are reviewed.