Genencor launches novel enzyme technology for ethanol production
The new technology removes the need for energy-intensive, costly cook step.
29/06/05 Danisco's recently acquired Genencor International, Inc. division has announced the availability of novel enzyme technology for the ethanol industry that could lead to improved energy balance and reduced production costs while obtaining higher output.
The first product from its line of STARGEN granular starch hydrolyzing enzymes was introduced this week at the Fuel Ethanol Workshop in Kansas City, MO. The new technology has the potential to pave the way for the emergence of biorefineries.
Until recently, ethanol plants have cooked grains and other feedstocks with thermostable enzymes to begin the process of converting starch to fermentable sugars and ultimately to ethanol.
Genencor’s STARGEN enzymes include blends of an alpha amylase and a glucoamylase that convert granular or uncooked starch to fermentable sugars on a continuous basis through a simultaneous saccharification and fermentation process.
Some of the potential advantages of this new technology include improved productivity, reduced energy consumption, higher ethanol yields and savings on capital expenses by reducing overall unit operations.
Genencor has achieved a high level of enzyme expression in industrial production strains while creating an acceptable cost structure for widespread use. Genencor is also evaluating applications of the STARGEN technology for use in its other businesses.
