description
- This project seeks to further develop a novel straw biorefinery process that will target the development of a range of products for applications such as platform chemicals for plastic manufacturing and high quality cellulosic fibres for value added applications. This technology will bring triple line manufacturing benefits to the Chinese economy through reductions in energy and the production of new conversion technologies. Straw is an underutilised co-product in China and the UK with a great potential as a feedstock. However, using this feedstock is problematic and new technological approaches are needed. The straw bio-refinery concept was first developed in Bangor in 1995 and the principle scientist is now based in Beijing. This project will introduce new technologies such as novel enzymes and will use a novel fractionation process that is based in Bangor. The project will enable Beijing and Bangor to work together and enhance and demonstrate the benefits at a scale previously not achievable. Funding will enable the application of the technology to the manufacturing capacity of China which will result significant economic and environmental benefits.