Biorefinery
The term biorefinery means ‘the separation of a stream of biomass in different parts’. These parts can then be further processed into products for food, feed, heat and power, and products for the chemical industry. Biorefinery is therefore an important part of the Biobased Economy, in which sustainable processing of biomass plays a major role.
What we do?
At ACRRES, in close cooperation with companies, we investigate innovations in the biorefining of biomass, such as algae and sugar beet. We also look closely at residue streams, such as roadside clippings, manure, digestate and aqueous streams.
At ACRRES we test ideas and concepts from our partners, with our partners. We perform process development and we scale up from the laboratory to pilot scale so that a new process can be demonstrated, which in turn facilitates the market launch. We also make modelling calculations of the technological innovations of companies we cooperate with. These are based on measurements ‘from the field’.
Examples
ACRRES has a pilot plant in which we ferment sugar beet, in partnership with Dutch Sustainable Development BV (DSD). This pulp is treated with the Beta Process to improve fermentation. We are also working on innovations in the refining of Stevia plants in order to produce natural sweeteners and fibres. We are also looking at, for example, the production of short-chain fatty acids from biomass, which can then be used to produce bioplastics.
Partnerships
Our practical research capabilities, combined with our ambitious attitude, hands-on mentality and the availability of our own laboratory and testing facilities (including fully controlled 5L fermenters), ensure that we can accelerate the development of biorefinery technologies together.
Interested?
Are you interested in working with us to advance the development of your technology? Do you want to test your technology under field conditions? Discuss the options with Maarten Kootstra, tel.: 0320-291302. E-mail: maarten.kootstra@wur.nl
