Biomass-derived succinic acid should serve as an attractive alternative for maleic anhydride and work as a catalyst for the synthesis of multitude of compounds.
According to Susanne Kleff, senior scientist for MBI International, all living things produce succinic acid through a natural fermentation of sugars. “First you want that four-carbon platform," she says. "Second, any chemical you can make that is part of the central metabolism of an organism always implies that you can make lots of it and that you can make it easily. “
Department of Energy, is concentrating more on producing bio based chemicals and hence, bio succinic acid is getting more attention. Rising petroleum price has been instrumental in shifting the attention towards bio based chemicals. "Some government agencies' emphasis on bio based products has lessened because of more pressing energy and fuel mandates," explains Gene Petersen, DOE project officer and chemist. "The question is will the private sector step up to the plate?"
Higher prices are a concern for the bio succinic acid manufacturers. With economies of scale, the cost factor would be addressed.
Myriant has a production facility of 3,600 tons/year at Lake Providence, U.S. They plan to expand the plant production in year 2014. Hence, in future we may witness growth of Bio Succinic acid. This can be main reason why it makes a favorable destination for investors and chemical companies.
