Industrial biotechnology company, Verdezyne has launched its first pilot plant in Carlsbad, California for the commercial production of adipic acid, which is a primary component in nylon 6,6.
Verdezyne's new pilot plant, where adipic acid is manufactured. (Credit: Business Wire)
The plant will also produce thermoplastic polyurethane resins derived from renewable resources like vegetable oils. Verdezyne employs non-food feedstocks that are plant-based for the production of many commercial diacids through the yeast fermentation process. This method offers greater advantages over traditional petroleum methods since they involve low production costs and generate lesser CO2 emissions resulting in lesser pollution.
Manufacture of petroleum-based nylon products are on the rise such as carpets, textiles, clothing and engineered plastics and this in turn will directly increase the global market for adipic acid to over $6 billion. According to the CEO and President of Verdezyne, Dr.E.William Radany this is the first production facility to manufacture adipic acid from a non-petroleum source. The company’s new yeast fermentation process offers lesser costs than regular processes used for petrochemical manufacturing. Verdezyne specialises in creating different yeast strains to provide cost- effective production solutions for fuels and bio based chemicals. Major investors in the company include DSM Venturing, BP Alternative Energy, Monitor Ventures and OVP Venture Partners.