- The plant will produce 10 kilotons per year of bio-based succinic acid.
- It is expected to start operations in H2 2012 in Cassano Spinola, Italy.
- Bio-based succinic acid is a renewable alternative to petroleum-derived chemicals.
- The process uses yeast-based fermentation, improving energy efficiency and eco-footprint.
Project Overview
Royal DSM and Roquette Frères are set to build a commercial-scale plant for bio-based succinic acid production, marking a significant step in offering a renewable alternative to fossil feedstocks. The plant, with a capacity of 10 kilotons per year, will be the largest of its kind in Europe and is expected to commence operations in the second half of 2012 in Cassano Spinola, Italy.
Production Details
Succinic acid is a versatile chemical building block used in polymers, resins, food, and pharmaceuticals. The bio-based version, derived from renewable resources, serves as an alternative to petroleum-based chemicals like adipic acid and 1.4-butanediol. The new facility will utilize a proprietary yeast-based fermentation process, which operates at a lower pH and offers higher energy efficiency compared to traditional methods. This process also sequesters carbon dioxide, enhancing its environmental benefits.
Market and Future Plans
The collaboration between DSM and Roquette began in 2008, with a demonstration plant in Lestrem, France, running at full capacity since early 2010. The initial market feedback has been positive, indicating strong demand for bio-renewable alternatives. Depending on market development, there may be plans to expand the facility further.
Technological Advancements
The yeast-based fermentation process not only reduces production costs but also eliminates salt waste and other by-products, improving the overall eco-footprint of the end products. Initially, the plant will use starch derivatives as feedstock, with a long-term goal to switch to second-generation feedstock like cellulosic biomass.
