Kao selected by NEDO to build saccharification enzyme supply platform
- Selected by NEDO under its Research and Development of Technologies to Promote Biomanufacturing initiative.
- Building a saccharification enzyme supply platform covering R&D, production technology, on‑site manufacturing plant design, and user support.
- Targeting unused biomass (waste paper, pulp, food waste) to produce sugars for bioproducts including bioethanol and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
- Kao leverages over 30 years of enzyme experience and its Chemical Business bio‑operations launched in 2023; it already supplies saccharification enzymes for bioethanol and fermentation‑produced gallic acid.
Project selection and objective
Kao’s proposal, Establishing a Saccharification Enzyme Supply Platform to Create Industries that Utilize Unused Biomass Resources, was selected for NEDO’s Research and Development of Technologies to Promote Biomanufacturing. The initiative supports R&D and demonstration to convert unused biomass resources such as waste paper, pulp and food waste into useful compounds and products using microorganisms.
Platform components
Kao will develop a platform to supply saccharification enzymes through four streams: (1) R&D of diverse saccharification enzymes and a functions database; (2) development of production technology including improved production microorganisms and efficient processes; (3) design and engineering of on‑site manufacturing plants at users’ factories to enable stable, efficient supply for bioproduct manufacture including SAF; and (4) user support for demonstration projects with continuous improvement and verification of enzymes in collaboration with stakeholders.
Kao’s background and role
Kao says it has used enzymes in detergents for over 30 years and launched its Chemical Business bio‑operations in 2023. It already supplies saccharification enzymes for bioethanol production, fermentation‑produced gallic acid, and process chemicals for bioproduct manufacturing, and will apply project results to future bio‑business initiatives.
Source: Kao Chemicals
