Germany – Covestro has inaugurated its pioneering bio-based aniline pilot plant in Leverkusen, Germany.
Aniline, a key chemical used in various industrial applications, including the production of insulating foam for buildings and refrigerators, has traditionally been derived from fossil fuels, contributing to CO2 emissions and climate change. However, Covestro’s innovative process utilizes plant biomass instead of petroleum, offering a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative. By transitioning to bio-based aniline production, Covestro aims to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, minimize its environmental impact, and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Project support
The bio-based aniline project also highlights the potential of industrial biotechnology in plastics production. Through fermentation and chemical catalysis, a customized microorganism converts plant-derived industrial sugar into an intermediate product, which is then further processed to create aniline with plant-based carbon.
Looking ahead, Covestro’s research on bio-based aniline will continue to receive support from the German government. The Bio4PURDemo project, funded by the German Ministry for Food and Agriculture, aims to further develop and commercialize bio-based aniline production technologies, ensuring a sustainable and resilient future for the chemical industry.
