Biological Pathways Produce Isobutyric Acid Using Renewable Resources

Technology

A biological pathway that produces isobutyric acid from sugar-based feedstocks has been developed using fungal and bacterial enzymes. This biological pathway is more environmentally friendly and direct than chemical synthesis. Isobutyric acid is a commodity chemical used to produce methyacrylic acid (MAA) and methyl methacrylate (MMA) which can further be processed into plastics adhesives ion exchange resins and lubrication additives.

Benefits

1) Produces isobutyric acid using renewable resources of sugar feedstock 2) Uses standard fermentation conditions and robust microbes 3) Does not require fossil fuels or harmful chemicals 4) Isobutyric acid is used in the production of fibers and plastics and can be converted to methacrylate

Date of release