12-45: Replacing petrochemical feed stock chemicals via non-food compatible fermentation processes

Replacement of petrochemical derived transport fuels and feed stock chemicals is of great importance to the environment, growing new cleantech jobs and national security .  Processes based on corn sugars dominate this space at present, but this approach is coming under close scrutiny (from both consumers and regulators) as the food versus fuel debate continues to rage. As a result, second generation (non-food sugar) processes are the focus of much research.
MBI is a Michigan-based “not for profit” company that is owned by the Michigan State University Foundation and which is focused on the development of agriculturally derived petrochemical alternatives. With a unique portfolio of technologies, spanning the conversion of cellulosic biomass into petrochemical-replacement chemicals, MBI develops integrated processes (from carbon source to finished chemical) to meet the needs of the bio-economy. Recent advances in production of petrochemical-replacement chemicals (including succinic and fumaric acid) and the hurdles to second generation sustainable chemical production will be discussed.