Paper Title
INFLUENCE OF PRE-HYDROLYSIS ON THE LIQUEFACTION OF HAZELNUT SHELL (CORYLUS AVELLANA L.)

Abstract
Abstract - The Hazelnut Shell (HS), scientifically known as Corylusavellana L., is composed of two distinct categories of elements: structural and non-structural. The main objective of this study was to analyze the chemical composition of hazelnut shells before and after various pre-hydrolysis steps. The goal was to solubilize the hemicelluloses present in the shells, which could then be used to recover sugars. The remaining cellulose and lignin in the solid phase could be further processed for a comprehensive utilization of the raw material. To optimize the liquefaction process, the researchers experimented with different temperatures (160 and 170 C) and times (0 and 180 min) of pre-hydrolysis. The percentage of liquefied material was determined by filtering the solid waste obtained. The most successful liquefaction of hazelnut shells occurred at a temperature of 170 C and a time of 180 min, resulting in a yield of 25.8%. Chemical analyses conducted throughout the hydrolysis process demonstrated the gradual solubilization of hemicelluloses as the time and temperature increased in the reactor. The percentage of α-cellulose and lignin also increased with both temperature and time, enhancing the potential of the material for the production of adhesives. This confirmed that pre-hydrolysis proved effective in improving the chemical composition of the material, making it suitable for the production of adhesives or higher-mechanical-strength polyurethane foams. Keywords - Hazelnut Bark, Liquefactions, Corylusavellana L., Ecovalorization, Waste, FTIR-ATR