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Microbial production of 1,3-propanediol
Michael Sauer1, Hans Marx, Diethard Mattanovich
1School of Bioengineering, FH Campus Wien-University of Applied Sciences, Muthgasse 18, 1190 Vienna, Austria. michael.sauer@fh-campuswien.ac.at
Recent Patents on Biotechnology
|December 17, 2008
Summary
Economical production of 1,3-propanediol (PDO) is now possible through innovative processes, including white biotechnology. This review highlights key patents driving the commercialization of bio-based PDO.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Chemical Engineering
- Industrial Chemistry
Background:
- 1,3-Propanediol (PDO) has known favorable properties but remained a specialty chemical due to high production costs.
- Glycerol fermentation to PDO was described over 120 years ago, but commercial viability was only recently achieved.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review key patents enabling the commercialization of bio-based 1,3-propanediol.
- To discuss recent developments in establishing a sustainable industry for bulk chemical production.
Main Methods:
- Review of significant patents related to 1,3-propanediol production processes.
- Analysis of advancements in white biotechnology for chemical manufacturing.
Main Results:
- Two new processes have enabled the competitive-price production of 1,3-propanediol, creating a new bulk chemical market.
- Microbial fermentation of renewable resources is a viable route for bulk chemical synthesis.
Conclusions:
- The commercialization of bio-based 1,3-propanediol represents a success in market creation for bulk chemicals.
- Patent-driven innovation, particularly in biotechnology, is crucial for sustainable industrial chemical production.
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