Biorefining of perennial grasses: A potential sustainable option for Northern Ireland grassland production

This paper reviews recent developments on the fractionation and processing of perennial grasses. The value of grass as a ruminant feed is based on its protein and fibre contents, and consists of hemicellulose, cellulose, lignin, proteins, lipids and minor fractions. Since the lignocellulosic fraction constitutes the largest component, the overall viability of a biorefining plant will be determined by fibre processing steps to add value in terms of functionality for various end use applications. The utilisation of grass and forage offers an opportunity to develop integrated schemes from primary production to bio-energy generation, the separation and fractionation of fibre, amino acid and protein fractions. Under a multifunctional management of grassland, the utilisation of silage/hay/forage for biorefining and as feed for animals could offer significant opportunities for Northern Ireland and this will ultimately have a positive impact on green house gas emissions.