In this project, a novel biorefinery concept will be developed, wherein domestic renewable raw materials in the form of forestry residues (GROT) and micro-algae are converted into an array of bulk and added-value products. Adipic acid (the precursor of nylon) will be produced by microbial conversion of the main carbohydrate fractions of the raw materials. Aromatic chemicals, such as terephthalic acid, will be produced by bioconversion of the lignin fraction of GROT. Separation technology and pretreatment will be developed to obtain a lignin fraction that can be further converted into aromatic compounds. The potential of microalgae as a source of added-value chemicals will also be assessed. Side streams will be used in anaerobic digestion and bioelectrochemical systems, to improve the water economy, and allow for nutrient recycling within the process. Experimental data obtained in the project and from literature surveys will be used to assess the environmental impact of the entire process, including land use effects of producing and harvesting the raw materials. These data will also be used to assess the potential for integration with existing industry and its economic advantages. Scale-up effects on the environmental performance of different process steps will be assessed in parallel with the technology development. Our studies will lead to pinpointing which technological improvements are necessary for making this biorefinery-based technology sustainable.
Partner organizations
- SIK – the Swedish Institute for Food and Biotechnology (Public, Sweden)
Start date
17/06/2013
End date
The project is closed: 31/12/2018