Non-targeted screening and multivariate analysis of waste stream biomass conversion products.

Derivation of energy and materials from local waste streams may contribute to the obviation of the unsustainable linear fossil-based material economy. To that end, knowledge of products that may be derived from these feedstock streams must be expanded. When considering bio-based feedstock conversion methods (e.g., fermentation and whole-cell/enzymatic catalysis), techniques from metabolomics may be excellent for the comprehensive screening of underexplored feedstocks and/or underexplored bioconversion platforms. In this study, the compositions of various residues representative of local municipal organic waste streams were characterized and, subsequently, each residue underwent solid-state fermentation with a filamentous fungus (Talaromyces albobiverticillius NRRL 2120). Non-targeted ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole-time-of-flight electrospray ionization mass spectrometry in combination with multivariate analysis was applied to analyze the products of the fermentations. The product profile was observed to vary substantially with different residues (as well as between fermented and non-fermented samples of the same residue). Between 3647 and 7895 features were identified in each residue, with between 1823 and 2618 unique and statistically significant metabolites associated with specific fermented residues. Among these metabolites were many "top opportunity" chemicals, as identified by the US Department of Energy, including furans and organic acids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]