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Review
. 2012 Feb;7(2):176-85.
doi: 10.1002/biot.201100069. Epub 2011 Sep 20.

Perspective on opportunities in industrial biotechnology in renewable chemicals

Brent Erickson  1 , Nelson, Paul Winters
Affiliations
Free PMC article
Review

Perspective on opportunities in industrial biotechnology in renewable chemicals

Brent Erickson et al. Biotechnol J. 2012 Feb.
Free PMC article

Abstract

From biomass to renewable chemicals: while industrial biotechnology offers a clear value proposition, a number of hurdles need to be addressed to fully realize the commercial potential of bio-based products and chemicals over the coming decade. A review of an early roadmap for biological production of chemicals from renewable sugars reveals a focus on those that would provide co-products for integrated biorefineries producing biofuels and bioenergy. A growing number of companies are now focusing on specialty chemicals as an entry point to build the bio-based economy.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Growth of corn ethanol refining, 2000–2011. Construction of new ethanol biorefineries and expansion of existing production capacity accelerated following the adoption of the nation's first RFS in 2005.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Factors determining competitive advantages for biomass-derived chemicals. Commercial success and competitive advantages for biotechnology enabled, biomass-derived chemicals relies upon the three interdependent factors, 1. economics, 2. performance, and 3. environmental factors.
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References

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