European Chemical Industry News & Insights

Myriant and ThyssenKrupp Uhde Scale Bio-Succinic Acid Production

At a glance
  • Myriant and ThyssenKrupp Uhde signed an exclusive alliance in 2009 to commercialize bio-succinic acid.
  • The production process at Leuna meets commercial yield and quality targets.
  • The global market for succinic acid is estimated at $7.5 billion annually.
  • Myriant's bio-succinic acid reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 94% compared to petroleum-derived succinic acid.

Alliance and Objectives

In 2009, Myriant Corporation and ThyssenKrupp Uhde formed an exclusive alliance to commercialize bio-succinic acid. The partnership aimed to ensure the bio-succinic acid process is cost-competitive and produces high-purity product at commercial scale. Additionally, ThyssenKrupp Uhde would provide process and performance guarantees for future Myriant plants.

Successful Production

Myriant announced the successful scaling and commercial production of bio-succinic acid at ThyssenKrupp Uhde's biotech commercial validation facility in Leuna, Germany. The production process met targets for commercial yield and product quality, marking a significant milestone in the alliance.

Market Potential

The global market for succinic acid is estimated at approximately $7.5 billion annually, covering a wide range of applications including polymers, urethanes, plasticizers, and coatings. Traditionally produced from petroleum, succinic acid can now be made from renewable feedstocks, offering a lower environmental footprint.

Environmental Impact

Myriant's high-purity bio-succinic acid is chemically equivalent to petroleum-based succinic acid but significantly reduces harmful greenhouse gas emissions. Specifically, it cuts emissions by 94% compared to petroleum-derived succinic acid and by 93% compared to petroleum-derived adipic acid.