Paraformaldehyde as feedstock for yeast fermentation
This project focuses on the development of a sustainable and economically viable method to produce biochemicals via fermentation with yeast. A new feedstock, paraformaldehyde, is used in this process.
Motivation
Green methanol is emerging as a key player in sustainable biotech, offering a renewable alternative to fossil fuels or sugar based feedstocks. Although methanol has long been considered a promising material for bioproduction, using it on industrial scale has been challenging due to its high oxygen demands, making the process expensive and inefficient. This project focuses on developing a sustainable, but more economical feasible way to produce biochemicals, like Single Cell Protein (SCP).
Method
The innovative solution proposed by FeedstocksUnited (FSU) is to use paraformaldehyde, a compound derived from renewable methanol, as feedstock, which requires much less oxygen during fermentation. This new method has already shown promising results in the lab, where it was tested with microorganisms that can use formaldehyde (released from paraformaldehyde) as a source of carbon and energy.
FSU’s approach has the potential to significantly reduce the costs and environmental impacts associated with large-scale bioproduction. The process can be managed more efficiently than methods using methanol, since the production of paraformaldehyde from formaldehyde is tunable. This process control will lead to better yields and reduced energy and feedstock consumption.
Goal
Within the research group Biobased Innovations we will conduct further research to optimize this method for industrial applications. This includes studying how yeast metabolize formaldehyde and improving the process through continuous fermentation. The research also supports educational goals by involving students in cutting-edge biotechnological work.
Ultimately, the project aims to provide a solid proof-of-concept that can be scaled up to industrial levels, contributing to a more sustainable bioeconomy.
Our partners
- Feedstock United BV
Biobased Innovations
To prevent our beautiful planet from turning into a vast barren wasteland, the raw material transition is an absolute necessity. In the Biobased Innovations research group, together with partners and students, we are working hard on the further development of key technologies that support this necessary transition.
