Genomatica develops new butylene glycol production technology

Bioengineering firm Genomatica has developed new bio-based process technology GENO to produce naturally sourced 1,3-butylene glycol for applications in personal care products.

The firm has used the new technology to generate butylene glycol samples and transferred the process to 85,000l production fermentors at EW Biotech in Leuna, Germany.

Butylene glycol is a four-carbon alcohol used in cosmetic products for moisture retention and as a carrier for plant extracts.

The standard butylene glycol production methods use acetaldehyde, which is derived from fossil fuels and said to be toxic, an irritant, and carcinogenic. To avoid this, GENO employs a fermentation process and uses sustainable plant-based ingredients.

Genomatica CEO Christophe Schilling said: “The GENO process marks our entry into specialty chemicals, complementing our leadership in intermediates.

“GENO is another example of how quickly we can commercialise our bioengineering innovations and enable products with better performance and greater sustainability.”

GENO has obtained recognition from petrochemical market information provider ICIS, which recognises new products and processes that make better use of energy and raw materials with safe performance and low environmental impact.

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Image: Genomatica has begun to produce Bio-BG butylene glycol in 85,000l fermentation tanks. Photo: courtesy of Genomatica.