Upcycling glycerol into succinic acid: sustainable integration with biodiesel mills

Abstract

This study explores the industrial potential of producing bio-based succinic acid from crude glycerol, a low-value byproduct of Brazil's biodiesel industry, through the integration of green chemistry and biotechnology. Using Yarrowia lipolytica as a natural succinic acid producer, the study assesses standalone facilities and systems integrated into biodiesel mills. Results show that producing succinic acid from crude glycerol (Scenario 1) reduces climate change impact by 47% compared to using pure glycerol (Scenario 2), despite lower productivity. Integrating succinic acid production with biodiesel operations (Scenario 3) improves economic performance but raises CO₂ emissions by 54% relative to standalone biodiesel production. All scenarios are economically feasible, with payback periods under seven years. Energy use and solvent recovery optimization remain essential to boost competitiveness. This work highlights the potential to upcycle crude glycerol into value-added chemicals, supporting circular economy strategies and guiding sustainable biorefinery development.

Keywords: Bio-based succinic acid; Biorefinery integration; Byproduct valorization; Economic assessment; Environmental impact; Glycerol fermentation; Green chemistry; Sustainable engineering.