Objective: this study aimed to find optimum α-cellulose kapok fiber hydrolysis condition by Penicillium vermiculatum for glucose preparation.

Method: The cellulase activity was screened by a clear zone and sugar reduction method. α-cellulose of kapok fiber was hydrolyzed using crude extract enzyme of Penicillium vermiculatum. Obtained glucose was identified by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometry, and qualitative analysis test.

Results: The cellulase activity was shown by Penicillium vermiculatum. The clear zone diameter was 33,83 mm and Penicillium vermiculatum was also shown cellulolytic activity in hydrolyzing 1% CMC with the glucose yield was 3,8%. α-cellulose obtained from kapok fiber was compared to the raw material of kapok fiber and avicel PH 101 using the Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrophotoscopy (FTIR). The maximum saccharification rate at a 5% concentration of α-cellulose kapok fiber substrate was found in the addition of 2% crude cellulase enzyme. The optimum pH and temperature for optimal hydrolysis conditions were pH 5 and 50 ° C, for 48 hours of incubation, with 0,4% glucose obtained. The glucose was identified using the FTIR and reducing sugar was detected by the Fehling test.

Conclusion: Glucose can be produced from α-cellulose of kapok fiber using crude enzyme from Penicillium vermiculatum mold.