by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) From Italy word has arrived that Novamont have opened the world’s first commercial-scale facility for the bio-based production of bio-based 1,4-butanediol, in Bottrighe (Adria), North East Italy. Having licensed Genomatica’s technology, the Novamont Mater-Biotech plant will produce 30,000 tons of BDO per year from renewable sugars.
First off, let’s note that the capacity is 70% up from the original target of 18,000 tons. The plant’s capacity was expanded due to higher anticipated demand for renewables, continually-improving process performance, and competitive economics.
Second, let’s note that the project is complete but the plant is being optimized now — the expectation is that it will reach full production rate in 2017.
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Third, the product focus is Novamont’s fourth-generation of Mater-Bi bioplastics — used to make biodegradable, compostable products such as fruit and vegetables bags, mulch film and coffee capsules. The products made with this new BDO will save an estimated 56% of greenhouse gas emissions compared to the use of conventional BDO.
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Novoamont’s symbiosis is different — their biorefinery concept as applied to bioplastics and biochemicals, involves six interconnected sites and four new proprietary technologies, and focuses on previously “deindustrialized” sites in Italy and agriculture in marginal soils. READ MORE