Nanoengineered cellulosic biohydrogen production via dark fermentation: A novel approach

The insights of nanotechnology for cellulosic biohydrogen production through dark fermentation are reviewed. Lignocellulosic biomass to sugar generation is a complex process and covers the most expensive part of cellulose to sugar production technology. In this context, the impacts of nanomaterial on lignocellulosic biomass to biohydrogen production process have been reviewed. In addition, the feasibility of nanomaterials for implementation in each step of the cellulosic biohydrogen production is discussed for economic viability of the process. Numerous aspects such as possible replacement of chemical pretreatment method using nanostructured materials, use of immobilized enzyme for a fast rate of reaction and its reusability along with long viability of microbial cells and hydrogenase enzyme for improving the productivity are the highlights of this review. It is found that various types of nanostructured materials e.g. metallic nanoparticles (Fe°, Ni, Cu, Au, Pd, Au), metal oxide nanoparticles (Fe2O3, F3O4, NiCo2O4, CuO, NiO, CoO, ZnO), nanocomposites (Si@CoFe2O4, Fe3O4/alginate) and graphene-based nanomaterials can influence different parameters of the process and therefore may perhaps be utilized for cellulosic biohydrogen production. The emphasis has been given on the cost issue and synthesis sustainability of nanomaterials for making the biohydrogen technology cost effective. Finally, recent advancements and feasibility of nanomaterials as the potential solution for improved cellulose conversion to the biohydrogen production process have been discussed, and this is likely to assist in developing an efficient, economical and sustainable biohydrogen production technology. •Application and impact of nanomaterial for cellulosic fermentative biohydrogen production are reviewed.•Influence of nanomaterial type, synthesis and cost analysis for cellulosic biohydrogen production is discussed.•Feasibility of nanotechnology for cellulosic biohydrogen production has been discussed.•The existing rollback in nanomaterial-based cellulosic biohydrogen production is reviewed with the possible future outcome.