European Chemical Industry News & Insights

Circa and Valmet Partner to Scale Biochemical Production

At a glance
  • Circa and Valmet signed a Heads of Agreement to optimize the Furacell™ process.
  • The ReSolute plant aims for 1,100 tonnes of Cyrene™ annually, using biochar for energy.
  • The goal is to develop 10-15 ktpa Furacell™ modules, reaching 80 ktpa Cyrene™ by 2030.
  • Conceptual engineering for the FC6 plant will start in the second half of 2022.

Partnership Agreement

Circa and Valmet have signed a Heads of Agreement to scale and optimize the Furacell™ production process through the ReSolute project and future large-scale plants. Valmet will be the main process technology and equipment supplier, contributing to the development of Circa’s large-scale production plants.

ReSolute Plant Upgrade

Following six months of collaboration, the ReSolute plant has been upgraded to target an annual production of 1,100 tonnes of biosolvent Cyrene™, utilizing internal energy supply from biochar created in the process. The upgraded plant will closely resemble a small-scale version of the larger FC6 plant, reducing cost and timeline risks for future plants.

Long-term Objectives

The long-term goal is to develop deployable 10-15 thousand tonne per annum (ktpa) Furacell™ modules that can operate separately or in multiples, depending on local feedstock and infrastructure. Circa aims to reach over 80 ktpa Cyrene™ production by 2030, aligning with Valmet’s vision to be a key partner in the expanding biochemical markets.

Future Plans

Following the agreement, Circa and Valmet will execute the ReSolute project and initiate conceptual engineering for the FC6 plant in the second half of 2022. Valmet will supply equipment and processes for biomass handling, pyrolizer, energy production, and plant automation for Circa’s future commercial-scale plants.