Operational Success
The Kuji City MSW-to-ethanol pilot plant, operational since April 2022, has demonstrated significant success. It achieved ethanol yields exceeding guaranteed performance for over 14 consecutive days, processing complex syngas streams with CO + H₂ contents as low as 40%.
Technological Adaptability
The plant's ability to handle highly inhomogeneous, unsorted mixed non-recyclable waste streams highlights the adaptability of LanzaTech’s gas fermentation platform. This capability is crucial for managing diverse regional waste profiles and supporting a global circular carbon economy.
Funding and Collaboration
The project was funded by SBR, a joint venture between Sekisui Chemical and INCJ, with additional support from the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) and the Ministry of the Environment. The collaboration also involved a novel gasifier design, showcasing ongoing innovation in waste conversion technologies.
