Propanergy

The propanergy project aims at developing an integrated bioprocess to convert technical glycerine from biodiesel production into biogas and two value-added products 1,3-propanediol (PDO) and fertilizer in a biorefinery approach.

The process will be developed through laboratory to pilot plant scale and allows an easy integration into a biodiesel or a biogas plant. The project will overcome three major obstacles to the new use of glycerine: (1) partial use of the substrate; (2) inhibition of bioconversion by residual methanol and byproducts of the bioconversion which results in a limited product yield and concentration; (3) high energy costs for the downstream processing.

The project and out-coming technology fulfils many requirements of the EU policies in environmental, economical and social domains.