Sandra Menir

Title: Innovations in Ethanol Production by Sandra Menir

Introduction

Sandra Menir is a notable inventor based in Gonesse, France. She has made significant contributions to the field of biofuels, particularly in the production of ethanol from lignocellulosic biomass. With a total of 3 patents, her work focuses on sustainable methods for producing alcohols and solvents.

Latest Patents

One of her latest patents is titled "Process for the production of ethanol and solvents from lignocellulosic biomass with recycling of an ethanolic liquor obtained from the fermentation of pentoses." This invention outlines a second-generation process where lignocellulosic biomass undergoes pre-treatment before conversion into ethanol through enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation. The glucidic polymers of the pre-treated plant material are hydrolyzed by cellulases, and the alcoholigenic microorganisms primarily utilize hexoses such as glucose and mannose. The alcohols are extracted by distillation, and the stillage containing unused pentoses is fermented into an ex-pentose ethanolic liquor, which is recycled upstream of the enzymatic hydrolysis.

Another significant patent is the "Method for producing ethanol and solvents from lignocellulosic biomass including the recirculation of a butyl wine obtained by fermenting pentoses." This process also starts with cellulosic or lignocellulosic biomass undergoing pretreatment. The glucidic polymers are hydrolyzed by cellulases, and microorganisms that primarily use hexoses are employed for fermentation. The pentoses in the vinasses are fermented into a butyl wine, with a portion of this wine recycled upstream from enzymatic hydrolysis.

Career Highlights

Sandra Menir is currently associated with Ifp Energies Nouvelles, a company dedicated to energy innovation and sustainable development. Her work has been pivotal in advancing the production of biofuels, contributing to the global effort to find renewable energy sources.

Collaborations

She has collaborated with notable colleagues such as Marcel Ropars and Caroline Aymard, enhancing the research and development efforts in her field.

Conclusion

Sandra Menir's innovative approaches to ethanol production from lignocellulosic biomass highlight her commitment to sustainability and renewable energy. Her patents reflect a significant advancement in the biofuel industry, paving the way for more efficient and environmentally friendly production methods.