Biomass transferred into valuable chemicals

Transferring feedstocks into chemicals Source: DuPont

The BioConSepT (Bio-Conversion and Separation Technology) project started in February 2012. It demonstrates the complete feasibility of an integrated chain approach, which is regarded as the basis for the next generation industrial White Biotechnology processes. The aim is to deliver processes that convert 2nd generation biomass into valuable chemicals, which are 30 % cheaper and 30 % more sustainable than the corresponding chemical routes or the biotechnology processes starting from 1st generation feedstocks like glucose. 

BioConSepT focuses on the use of so-called 2nd generation feedstocks like lignocellulose and non-edible oils and fats, which cannot be used for the production of food. The partners have selected seven chains for chemicals that can be made from these materials. Both bioconversions with enzymes and microorganisms and chemical reactions are used in the production chains. The introduction of continuous processes, novel reactors and selective separation technologies will generate breakthroughs in costs and sustainability. The project will deliver samples of the envisioned applications, which include green polymers, resins, plasticizers, surfactants and solvents for testing in the market. After two years BioConSepT will select the 2 most promising chains for demonstration at a scale of 100 to 1000 kg product.
 The project is an initiative to reduce the closing gap between the laboratory and the industrial practice for the production of chemicals from abundantly available biomass.
 The BioConSepT consortium is coordinated by TNO and consists of 31 partners from Research & Technology Organizations, large industrial companies and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises.

Fraunhofer IGB is one of the partners of the BioConSepT project.