1,3-Propanediol and its copolymers: research, development and industrialization

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Chemical Engineering
• Polymer Science

Background:

• 1,3-Propanediol (PDO) is transitioning from specialty to commodity chemical status.
• Polytrimethylene terephthalate (PTT), derived from PDO, offers unique properties for applications in fibers, films, and engineering thermoplastics.
• Growing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly chemical production drives interest in bio-based PDO.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and demonstrate a novel, flexible aerobic fermentation process for bio-based 1,3-Propanediol (PDO) production.
• To evaluate the efficiency and sustainability of bio-based PDO production compared to traditional petroleum-based methods.
• To highlight the potential of bio-based PTT as a sustainable polymer alternative.

Main Methods:

• Development of a flexible aerobic fermentation process for PDO production from glycerol or glucose.
• Utilization of engineered Escherichia coli for PDO synthesis.
• Pilot plant demonstration with a facility capacity of 4000 t/year.

Main Results:

• Achieved a high yield of 135 g/L 1,3-Propanediol (PDO) using glucose as feedstock with engineered E. coli.
• Demonstrated a novel aerobic fermentation process at a pilot scale.
• Bio-based PDO production consumes 40% less energy and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 20% compared to petroleum-based routes.

Conclusions:

• The developed bio-process offers a sustainable and environmentally friendly route for 1,3-Propanediol (PDO) production.
• Bio-based PTT presents a sustainable alternative to fossil fuel-based polymers, with significant future potential.
• Engineered E. coli and aerobic fermentation are effective for high-yield bio-based PDO production.