Arkema partners EuroBioRef and BIOCORE projects in the transformation of biomass

With its long-standing experience in the processing of vegetable raw materials, Arkema now partners the EuroBioRef (European Multilevel Integrated Biorefinery Design for Sustainable Biomass Processing) and BIOCORE (Biocommodity Refinery) projects. Both programs are receiving funding as part of the European Union’s 7th Framework program, and involve many partners from 20 countries who specialize in the entire biomass transformation process, from plant cultivation to commercial end-products.

Both projects aim to develop a new highly integrated production concept from multiple non-edible plant feedstocks, using a number of processes (chemical, biochemical, thermochemical) to produce a wide range of products, including aviation fuel and chemical intermediates. These projects aim to capitalize on the concerted skills of a large variety of industrial players and research bodies, including CNRS and INRA in France, dedicated to the valorization of biomass. They should result in the optimization of the technical, economic and environmental performances of bio-refineries.

Arkema’s commitment to the EuroBioRef and BIOCORE projects falls in line with its strategy to develop a sustainable chemical activity based on more efficient processes and on the use of renewable vegetable raw materials, in particular for the production of polyamides and acrylic acid.

A global chemical company and France’s leading chemicals producer, Arkema consists of three businesses: Vinyl Products, Industrial Chemicals, and Performance Products. Arkema reported sales of 5.6 billion euros in 2008. Arkema has 13,800 employees in over 40 countries and six research centers located in France, the United States and Japan. With internationally recognized brands, Arkema holds leadership positions in its principal markets.