Economical factors in the assessment of various cellulosic substances as chemical and energy resources.

Economic factors in the assessment of various cellulosic substances as chemical and energy resources are many and complex. No substrate nor conversion process can be singled out as significantly advantageous. Agricultural wastes appear to have the best volume and availability characteristics. If glucose is to be the end product, then it will probably have to compete with corn syrup. If SCP is to be the end product, then productivities of 2-4 g/liter-hr must be achieved and the protein demand be such that the product can sell for at least $225/ton. If alcohol is to be the end product, then an intermediate product stream of glucose and other sugars must be obtained for 1-3cent/lb of fermentable sugars.