As part of plans to expand its bio-based chemicals research activities, engineering giant ThyssenKrupp (Essen / Germany; www.thyssenkrupp.com) has opened a multi-purpose fermentation plant for the continuous production of biochemicals. Located in Leuna / Germany, the EUR 20m facility will allow the company to test its laboratory-developed fermentation and processing technologies on an industrial scale. “More than 1,000 t of biochemicals such as lactic acid and succinic acid can now be produced at this facility annually,” the company stated.

Lactic acid and succinic acid are used to manufacture bioplastics such as PLA and polybutylene succinate (PBS). It is estimated bioplastics will replace some 4.5m t/y of PET in the coming years, ThyssenKrupp noted.

The new facility is Europe’s first multi-purpose fermentation plant for the continuous production of bio-based chemicals. “Industrial biotechnology is part of our growth strategy,” stated CEO Heinrich Hiesinger. “ThyssenKrupp has extensive expertise in this area – from basic research to the operation of industrial-scale pilot plants.” The company’s technical centre for research in biochemicals was relocated from Leipzig / Germany to Leuna in August 2012.

ThyssenKrupp noted that an interdisciplinary team from its plant technology business worked five years to develop a licensable process for the production of lactic acid.