Braskem, Lallemand Biofuels & Distilled Spirits Launch Bio-Acetone Platform

Brazil's Braskem and Lallemand Biofuels & Distilled Spirits (LBDS) have launched an innovative bio-acetone production platform for the corn-ethanol industry.

The technology, called ALCHEMPro, combines LBDS' proprietary fermentation process with Braskem's bio-acetone recovery process to create a new revenue stream for biorefineries. This is achieved by generating a new coproduct alongside ethanol without affecting performance.

According to the companies, the technology has been engineered over five years of collaborative development and validation, resulting in an innovative yeast strain that enables bio-acetone production during fermentation. Braskem will be responsible for all bio-acetone sales and market development, while LBDS will continue to serve ethanol producers.

The global demand for acetone is over 8 million tons per year, serving various segments seeking new solutions from renewable sources. Bio-acetone is a drop-in replacement for fossil-based acetone, offering benefits such as being 100% renewable, benzene-free, and phenol-free. It can be used in cosmetics, paints, coatings, acrylics, adhesives, and personal care applications.