AVA Biochem and Sulzer Chemtech partner to commercialize 5-HMF production technology

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Type of post: NEWS IN BRIEF.

AVA Biochem and Sulzer Chemtech have entered into an exclusive license agreement to commercialize AVA Biochem’s COBRIS™ (Conversion of Biomass to Renewable Industrial Substances) technology.

Figure 1. AVA Biochem and Sulzer Chemtech partner to commercialize 5-HMF production technology (taken from the press release)

AVA Biochem proprietary Hydro-Thermal Process (HTP) COBRIS™ turns sugar-rich biomass into 5-(hydroxymehyl)furfural (5-HMF), a renewable and non-toxic compound that can be used to produce commodity chemicals. These include adhesives, food additives, textile fibers, packaging, films and fine chemicals, as well as a possible alternative to formaldehyde used in chipboards. The solution can therefore support the largescale production of biobased materials, enhancing the sustainability of both the manufacturing and processing sectors.

Sulzer Chemtech will commercialize the licensed technology along with its proprietary key equipment for the purification of 5-HMF, such as falling film evaporators. These are already supporting operations at a demonstration plant in Muttenz (Switzerland) where 5-HMF is produced in different forms for a total capacity of 6 metric tons per year.

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