EU Biorefinery

Outlook to 2030
Studies on support to research and innovation policy
in the area of bio-based products and services

Written by
E4tech • WUR • BTG • FNR • ICONS Independent
Expert
Report

February 2021

Research and
Innovation
EU Biorefinery Outlook to 2030 (Lot 3)

Studies on support to research and innovation policy in the area of bio-based products and services

European Commission
Directorate-General for Research and Innovation
Directorate B — Healthy Planet
Unit B.1 — Circular Economy and Biobased Systems
Email [email protected]
European Commission
B-1049 Brussels

Manuscript completed in February 2021

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 EUROPEAN COMMISSION

EU Biorefinery
Outlook to 2030
Studies on support to research and innovation in
the area of bio-based products and services

AUTHORS
Richard Platt, Ausilio Bauen, Patrick Reumerman, Cécile Geier, René Van Ree,
Iris Vural Gursel, Lesly Garcia, Martin Behrens, Philipp von Bothmer, Jo Howes,
Yamini Panchaksharam, Kaisa Vikla, Valerie Sartorius, Bert Annevelink

COMMUNICATION AND GRAPHIC DESIGN

Raffaella Moreschi, Ilaria Abbondanti Sitta, Niccolò Bertuzzi, Marcello Bardellini

Directorate-General for Research and Innovation

2021 Healthy Planet EN
Table of Contents
ABSTRACT............................................................................................................ 4
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY (EN) .................................................................................... 5
RÉSUMÉ ............................................................................................................. 20
INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................. 36
Study context .................................................................................................................. 36
A focus on biorefining and the production of bio-based chemicals and materials ........................ 36
Study aim and objectives .................................................................................................. 38
Work package structure and interactions ............................................................................. 39
Policy Context .................................................................................................................. 40
Stakeholder engagement ................................................................................................... 41
1 WP1 – BIOREFINERY CLASSIFICATION ............................................................... 44
1.1 Objectives .............................................................................................................. 44
1.2 Approach ................................................................................................................ 44
1.3 Literature Review ..................................................................................................... 44
1.4 Biorefinery Classification System................................................................................ 45
1.5 Application of the Biorefinery Classification System ...................................................... 55
1.6 Additional information relevant to Stakeholders ........................................................... 56
2 WP 2 – DRIVERS AND BARRIERS FOR BIOREFINERIES ......................................... 58
2.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................ 58
2.2 Activity A: Development of the barrier and driver categorisation .................................... 58
2.3 Activity B) Specific Barriers and Drivers ...................................................................... 61
2.4 Activity C) General Barriers and Drivers ...................................................................... 64
3 WP 3 – AVAILABLE AND EMERGING BIOREFINERY PATHWAYS AND RD&I NEEDS ..... 83
3.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................ 83
3.2 Aim and objectives ................................................................................................... 83
3.3 Approach ................................................................................................................ 84
3.4 Task 1 - Identification and description of available and emerging biorefinery pathways...... 84
3.5 Task 2 - High-level assessment of the key advantages and disadvantages of biorefinery
pathways compared to alternative pathways ....................................................................... 123
3.6 Task 3 - Identification of technical barriers & measures to overcome these barriers for market
deployment of material and chemical based biorefineries ...................................................... 151
3.7 Task 4 - Identification of Research, Development and Innovation (RD&I) needs to overcome
technical and non-technical barriers. .................................................................................. 158
4 WP 4 – EU AND GLOBAL BIOREFINERY DEPLOYMENT “DATABASE” ....................... 165
4.1 Objectives, scope and approach ................................................................................ 165
4.2 Define datafield headings ......................................................................................... 167
4.3 Selection of top 10 most relevant other countries ........................................................ 167
4.4 Review existing biorefinery databases........................................................................ 168
4.5 Build database of biorefineries in EU and top 10 countries ............................................ 169
4.6 Analysis of EU (and top 10 other countries) planned biorefineries .................................. 170
4.7 WP 4 Conclusions.................................................................................................... 181
5 WP 5– MARKET PROSPECTS FOR BIOREFINERIES TO 2030 ................................. 182
5.1 Objectives ............................................................................................................. 182
5.2 Approach ............................................................................................................... 182
5.3 Growth scenarios .................................................................................................... 182
5.4 Potential demand .................................................................................................... 184

2
5.5 Potential supply ...................................................................................................... 224
5.6 Comparison of supply in the EU to supply in top 10 non-EU countries in database ............ 270
5.7 Comparison of EU demand vs EU supply .................................................................... 274
6 WP 6 – EU BIOREFINERY OUTLOOK AND ROADMAP FOR DEPLOYMENT ................. 276
6.1 Objective ............................................................................................................... 276
6.2 Approach ............................................................................................................... 276
6.3 Chemical and material driven biorefinery roadmaps ..................................................... 278
6.4 Biorefinery outlook for deployment in the EU .............................................................. 317
6.5 Identify and quantify GHG and socio-economic benefits ............................................... 327
ANNEX I - WP 1 LITERATURE REVIEW BIOREFINERY CLASSIFICATIONS SYSTEMS ..... 332
IEA Bioenergy Task 42 Biorefinery Classification & Bio-Based Chemicals Update (IEA
2009/2018/2020) ............................................................................................................ 332
Towards a common classification approach for biorefinery Systems (2009).............................. 334
BioRefinery identification, classification and mapping (Euroview-2009) ................................... 334
European Biorefinery Strategy Road Map & Vision 2030 (Star-Colibri 2011) ............................. 335
ANNEX II - WP 1 CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM DEFINITIONS ...................................... 337
Feedstock ....................................................................................................................... 337
Conversion Processes ....................................................................................................... 338
Product Groups ............................................................................................................... 343
ANNEX III - WP 2 SPECIFIC DRIVERS AND BARRIERS FACTSHEETS ......................... 347
Drivers for, and barriers to, bio-based uptake of Propylene Glycol .......................................... 347
Drivers for, and barriers to, bio-based uptake in lubricants.................................................... 351
Drivers for, and barriers to, bio-based uptake in Solvents ..................................................... 356
Drivers for, and barriers to, bio-based uptake in surfactants .................................................. 360
Drivers for, and barriers to, market uptake of microfibrillated cellulose ................................... 364
Drivers for, and barriers to, bio-based uptake of polymers and plastics, specifically for thermoplastic
starch 368
Drivers for, and barriers to, bio-based uptake of polymers and plastics, specifically for thermoplastic
starch 372
Drivers for, and barriers to, bio-based uptake in Building Blocks (Lactic acid) .......................... 375
Drivers for, and barriers to, bio-based uptake in Building Blocks (Methanol) ............................ 381
Specific drivers for, and barriers to, Lignin-based resins market uptake .................................. 385
ANNEX IV - WP 4 ROADTOBIO TOP 120 CHEMICALS USES FOR DATABASE ............... 390
ANNEX V - WP 4 LIST OF KEYWORDS FOR MATERIAL BIOREFINERIES ...................... 393

3
ABSTRACT

EN

A circular bio-based economy is seen as an important element of a European low carbon

economy, and is expected to increasingly contribute to GHG emission reductions,
decreased dependence on fossil resources and drive economic growth over the next
decades. This study presents scenarios on how demand and supply for bio-based chemicals
and materials could grow to 2030, and provides roadmaps with actions required to increase
the deployment of chemical and material driven biorefineries in the EU. The study also
presents the key elements of the analysis which have supported the preparation of the
scenarios and roadmaps. This includes a biorefinery classification system, a database of
operational or announced biorefineries (developed in collaboration with the Joint Research
Centre) for the EU and 10 non-EU countries, a detailed opportunities and barriers analysis
and a market outlook to 2030 with a focus on eleven biorefinery pathways. The study was
developed by E4tech (lead), BTG, Wageningen Research, FNR and ICONS with the support
of over 100 stakeholders from the bio-based industry, the chemicals and materials
industries, academia & research institutions, the investment community and policy makers
through active participation in stakeholder workshops, meetings and interviews. The study
will support policy-makers and industry in further developing strategies, policies and
deployment plans for European biorefineries.

FR

La bioéconomie circulaire est vue comme élément clé dans le développement d’une
économie à bas carbone dans l’Union européenne. Celle-ci offre le potentiel de contribuer
à la réduction des émissions de gaz à effet de serre (GES), à la diminution de la dépendance
aux ressources fossiles ainsi qu’à la croissance économique de l’UE au cours de la prochaine
décennie. L’étude « Biorefinery Outlook 2030 » offre ainsi une analyse de l’évolution
potentielle de l’offre et de la demande en produits chimiques et matériaux biosourcés
(c’est-à-dire d’origine biologique) sur la base de scénarios à l’horizon 2030, ainsi que des
feuilles de route comprenant une liste d’actions nécessaires pour accroitre le déploiement
des bioraffineries en Europe. L’étude présente également les éléments clés de l’analyse sur
laquelle se basent les scénarios et les feuilles de route. Sont inclus un système de
classification des bioraffineries, une base de données des bioraffineries (développé en
collaboration avec le Centre Commun de Recherche de l’UE ou « Joint Research Centre »)
en activité ou en développement dans les pays membres de l’UE et dix pays tiers, une
analyse détaillée des barrières et opportunités, ainsi qu’une analyse de marché axée sur
onze filières de bioraffinerie. L'étude a été menée par E4tech (partenaire principal), BTG,
Wageningen Research, FNR et ICONS. Le consortium a bénéficié de contributions de plus
de 100 représentants de l’industrie chimique traditionnelle et biosourcée, de
l’enseignement supérieur et de la recherche, de la communauté des investisseurs et des
décideurs politiques, à travers une participation active à des ateliers, réunions et entretiens
individuels. L’étude a pour but d’aider les décideurs politiques ainsi que les industriels à
élaborer des stratégies, des politiques et des plans de déploiement pour une industrie
européenne de la bioraffinerie.

4
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The circular bioeconomy can help build a sustainable future and help meet the European
Green Deal's ambitious targets, including its plan to reduce EU greenhouse gas (GHG)
emissions by at least 55% by 2030, compared to 1990 levels. It also contributes to other
EU initiatives, including the Circular Economy Action Plan, the Biodiversity Strategy and
the Farm to Fork Strategy1. The updated EU Bioeconomy Strategy published in 2018
contributes to the European Green Deal, as well as Industrial, Circular Economy and Clean
Energy Innovation Strategies2. In light of the Bioeconomy Strategy, the European
Commission Directorate General for Research and Innovation commissioned three studies
to support the research and innovation policies regarding bio-based resources and
products.

This study, EU Biorefinery Outlook to 2030 (Lot 3), is specifically in support of the EU
Bioeconomy Strategy’s action to facilitate the development and deployment of new
sustainable biorefineries and to estimate the potential deployment of different types of
biorefineries.

Biorefining can be broadly defined as the processing of biomass into a portfolio of

marketable bio-based products, which could include co-production of food and feed,
chemicals and materials and bioenergy (power, heat/cold, fuels).3 The focus of the current
study is on chemical and material4 driven biorefineries which include the production of
innovative high value bio-based products. This includes integrated biorefineries that
produce chemical and materials as major products, but could also co-produce food and
feed as well as bioenergy. The tender study excludes bioenergy and biofuel driven
biorefineries, i.e. biorefineries with energy or fuels as major products, and conventional
biomass processing facilities focused on traditional bio-based products, such as paper and
board.

Biorefineries producing bio-based chemical and material products are expected to be an

important part of the circular bio-based economy, as well as the EU’s transition to a
climate-neutral economy. Deployment of biorefineries that utilise domestic EU biomass can
increase security of supply of raw materials, substituting fossil-based materials and
products and their respective emissions, and create jobs and business opportunities,
especially in rural areas. They increasingly complement processing of biomass in bioenergy
and biofuels driven biorefineries, as well as other production routes to produce bio-based
chemicals and materials, such as co-processing in existing facilities and those based on
CO2 and recycled carbon.

Classification chemical and material driven biorefineries

A biorefinery classification system has been developed5 to communicate information about

chemical and material driven biorefineries on the basis of four major full value chain
categories important to biorefinery operations: feedstocks, conversion processes,
platforms and products. The IEA Bioenergy Task 42 matrix classification has been used as
a basis, and has been further developed and extended, especially in the bio-based
chemicals and materials product group categories.

1
Bioeconomy & European Green Deal, https://knowledge4policy.ec.europa.eu/bioeconomy/bioeconomy-european-
green-deal_en
2
Bioeconomy Strategy, https://ec.europa.eu/info/research-and-innovation/research-area/bioeconomy/bioeconomy-
strategy_en
3
IEA Bioenergy Task 42 - Biomass can be crops, aquatic biomass, forestry, primary (agro/forest) – secondary
(process) and tertiary (post-consumer) residues, etc. This framework therefore will be very useably for political
decision making for upcoming R&I needed for the implementation of the Green Deal.
4
Bio-based chemicals and materials range from high-value added fine chemicals such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics,
food additives, etc., to high volume materials such as general bio-polymers or chemical feedstocks [i.e. building
blocks].
5
WP1 – Biorefinery Classification – developed by Stichting Wageningen Research, Institute Wageningen Food & Bio-
based Research

5
The classification system is focused on biorefineries producing chemicals and materials.
The proposed product groups cover a broad spectrum of bio-based products, like the ones
proposed in the EU Bioeconomy Strategy and the Statistical Classification of Economic
Activities in the European Community (NACE) nomenclatures.

Table 1. Biorefinery Classification

1. Feedstocks 2. Conversion 3. Platforms 4. Products

Processes

1.1. Primary biomass†: 2.1. Biochemical: • Biochar 4.1. Chemicals:

• Aquatic biomass • Aerobic conversion • Bio-Coal • Additives
• Lignocellulosic from • Anaerobic digestion • Bio-Crude • Agrochemicals
croplands and • Enzymatic process • Biogas • Building blocks6
grasslands • Fermentation • Bio-oils • Catalysts & Enzymes
• Lignocellulosic • Insect-based • Bio-hydrogen • Colorants
wood/forestry bioconversion • Bio-Naphtha • Cosmeceuticals
• Oil crops • *Other biochemical • C5/C6 sugars • Flavours & Fragrances
• Starch crops conversion • Carbon dioxide • Lubricants
• Sugar crops • Lignin • Nutraceuticals
• *Other primary 2.2. Chemical: • Oils • Paints & Coatings
biomass • Catalytic • Organic Fibres • Pharmaceuticals
• Esterification • Organic Juice • Solvents
1.2. Secondary Biomass†: • Hydrogenation • Protein • Surfactants
• Microbial biomass • Hydrolysis • Pyrolytic Liquid • *Other chemical
• Residues from • Methanation • Starch product
agriculture • Chemical Pulping • Syngas
• Residues from aquatic • Steam reforming • *Other platform 4.2. Materials:
biomass • Water electrolysis • Composites
• Residues from forestry • Water gas shift • **Fibres
and forest-based • *Other chemical • Organic Fertilizers
industry. conversion • Polymers
• Residues from nature • Resins
and landscape 2.3. Mechanical and • *Other material product
management thermomechanical:
• Residues from recycled • Blending 4.3. Food
bio-based products • Extraction
• *Other organic residues • Mechanical & 4.4. Animal Feed
thermomechanical
disruption & 4.5. Energy:
fractionation • Cooling agents
• Mechanical pulping • Fuels
• Separation processes • Heat
• Other mechanical and • Power
thermomechanical • *Other energy product
conversion

2.4. Thermochemical:
• Combustion
• Gasification
• Hydrothermal
liquefaction
• Pyrolysis
• Supercritical conversion
• Torrefaction &
Carbonization
• *Other thermochemical
conversion

* ‘Other’ is included to enable new concepts, technologies or product categories to be included.

**’Fibres’ potentially can be further subdivided according to their application: textile fibres, paper and board
fibres, carbon/specialty fibres and other fibres.
†Primary biomass is a biomass originated via artificial or natural photosynthesis. Secondary biomass is produced
during the processing, conversion or decomposition of primary biomass and organic material.

6
A building block is defined as a molecule which can be converted to various secondary chemicals and intermediates
and turn into a broad range of different downstream products.

6
Chemical and material driven biorefinery pathways and their development status

Based on the classification system, eleven umbrella biorefinery pathways have been
identified (A-K) that are at varying development and deployment levels7. Each pathway is
a combination of one or more Feedstocks, Conversion Processes, Platforms and Products
shown in Table 1. A-D represent commercially established biorefineries whilst pathways E-
K are at earlier stages of development.

Table 2. Chemical and materials driven biorefinery pathways

Biorefinery pathway name

A. One platform (C6 sugars) biorefinery using sugar crops

B. One platform (starch) biorefinery using starch crops

C. One platform (oil) biorefinery using oil crops, wastesa and residues

D. Two-platform (pulp and spent liquor) biorefinery using wood

E. Three platform (C5 sugars, C6 sugars and lignin) biorefinery using lignocellulosic biomassc

F. Two-platform (organic fibres and organic juice) biorefinery using green biomassb

G. Two-platform (oil and biogas) biorefinery using aquatic biomass

H. Two-platform (organic fibres and oil) biorefinery using natural fibresb

I. One platform (syngas) biorefinery using lignocellulosic biomassc and municipal solid waste

J. Two platform (pyrolytic liquid and biochar) biorefinery using lignocellulosic biomass

K. One platform (bio-crude) biorefinery using lignocellulosic, aquatic biomass, organic residues

a. Waste/residue fats, oils and greases belong to category "Other organic residues"
b. Green biomass and Natural fibres belong to category "Lignocellulosic from croplands and grasslands“
c. Lignocellulosic biomass includes Lignocellulosic from croplands, wood/forestry and residues from agriculture
and forestry

Current deployment status of biorefineries in Europe

Over 400 chemical and material driven biorefineries at commercial or demonstration scale
have been identified in the EU8 and 10 non-EU countries9. Approximately 300 of these are
located in the EU.

The respective interactive dashboards of the chemical and material driven biorefineries in
the EU (non-EU) are available under the following links:
https://datam.jrc.ec.europa.eu/datam/mashup/CHEMICAL_BIOREFINERIES_EU/index.html
( https://datam.jrc.ec.europa.eu/datam/mashup/CHEMICAL_BIOREFINERIES_NON_EU/index.html )

Of the operational chemical and material driven biorefineries, the C6 sugar and starch
platform (Pathways A, B) and the oil platform (Pathway C) that utilise food and feed crop
feedstocks (i.e. oil, sugar or starch crops) account for 56% of the total number of
facilities.

7
WP3 – Available and emerging biorefinery pathways and RD&I needs – developed by Stichting Wageningen Research,
Institute Wageningen Food & Biobased Research
8
WP4 – EU and global biorefinery deployment “database” – developed by B.T.G Biomass technology group BV based
on the JRC biorefinery database: https://datam.jrc.ec.europa.eu/datam/mashup/BIOBASED_INDUSTRY/index.html
9
10 countries: USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Brazil, China, India, Thailand, Norway, Switzerland,
United Kingdom

7
The two platform pulp and spent liquor (Pathway D) accounts for nearly 20% of operational
biorefineries and is based on pulping of wood feedstock (lignocellulosic wood/forestry). It
is the pathway with the most biorefineries using secondary feedstocks (e.g. residues from
forestry and forest-based industries). Pathways E-K make up the remainder with the three
platform C5 sugars, C6 sugars and lignin (Pathway E) and the two platform natural fibres
and oil (Pathway H) accounting for about 10% each.

For a long time, the forest-based biorefineries have been innovating and diversifying their
product portfolio by processing pulp & paper mill side streams into differentiated materials
and chemicals (other than traditional products such as paper and board), and these
operations often include multiple pathways (e.g. D + E). They are a good example of how
biorefineries can include a variety of processes, platforms, products and both virgin and
recycled biomass feedstocks.

Figure 1. Distribution of identified bio-based chemicals and materials driven biorefineries in 2020 in the EU

Key drivers and barriers for further deployment

The most important general drivers were identified10 as: the EU Green Deal, governmental
support for expansion and scale-up of biorefineries, the need to reduce dependence on
fossil raw materials and products as well as their related greenhouse gas emissions, and
the functional benefits that bio-based products are potentially able to provide.

The lack of economic viability was identified as the main non-technical barrier to bio-based
chemicals and materials deployment, particularly for biorefineries producing large volume
commodities. There is a large gap between the market’s willingness to pay for these bio-
based products and their production costs in most cases. This is a result of very limited or
no increased willingness to pay more for renewable/low carbon bio-based chemicals and
materials, low costs of the fossil-derived equivalents, high production costs of bio-based

10
WP2 – Drivers and barriers for biorefineries – developed by B.T.G Biomass technology group BV with stakeholder
input gathers in virtual workshops, meetings and interviews

8
products, and competition with biofuels markets. In addition, some EU biorefineries are
less cost competitive than biorefineries in some other parts of the world due to higher
energy costs, higher labour costs, higher taxes, and limited availability and accessibility of
low-cost biomass feedstocks. Moreover, the Commission’s draft proposal for the Taxonomy
Delegated Act on climate change mitigation and adaptation also excludes use of food and
feed crops for bio-based chemicals and plastics (as well as for biofuels) from voluntary
sustainable financing.

Achieving the scale up of new bio-based chemicals and materials production capacity is
challenging, because of the level of investment required, coupled with technology and
market risk hindering financing.

Achieving the scale up of new bio-based chemicals and materials production capacity is
challenging, because of the level of investment required in plants, coupled with technology
and market risk hindering financing.

All bio-based chemicals and materials driven biorefineries, to varying degrees, have
immediate concerns about certified sustainable feedstock supply and mid- to long-term
concerns over the sustainable feedstock mobilisation potential in a competitive circular
bioeconomy. The EU biomass potential is large from primary crops and agricultural, process
and post-consumer residues and wastes, but there will be demand for these feedstocks
from various sectors. Furthermore, there are ethical concerns related to their use and also
their proposed exclusion from the activities of voluntary sustainable financing that affect
investments in respective installations and products.

The main advantage of many bio-based chemicals and materials lies in their environmental
benefits (e.g. substitution of fossil-based products leading to greenhouse gas emission
reductions), and in some cases characteristics that outperform their fossil counterparts
(e.g. biodegradability of some polymers). In order for these benefits to be valued, they
need to be rewarded by appropriate policies being developed as part of the EU’s Green
Deal and climate targets, and they need to be quantified and broadly understood.
Currently, there is a lack of evidence on the full life-cycle sustainability benefits of bio-
based products. Quantitative information on sustainability is needed over the full biomass-
to-products life-cycle, including their end-of-life fate, to demonstrate their potential
environmental and other advantages.

Today there is a very limited policy-based market pull. The European Commission will
propose legislation on the Sustainable Product Policy Initiative extending the Eco-design
Directive beyond energy aspects to a broad range of products and the making use of the
Product Environmental Footprint method. However, additional policy-based market pull is
expected to be required to overcome barriers to bio-based chemicals and materials.

Research, Development & Innovation (RD&I) activities needed to overcome

technical barriers

Some of the biorefinery pathways are at low Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs).
Therefore, supporting fundamental research, applied research and providing piloting,
demonstration and commercial scale support (1st of a kind commercial application) will be
required to scale-up chemicals and material driven biorefineries in the EU. The RD&I needs
to address11 the most important technical barriers relate to the development of:

• Robust and flexible logistical systems (collection, transport, storage) able to process
the diverse European biomass potential, especially as regards agricultural residues
and various municipal waste streams;

11
WP3 – Available and emerging biorefinery pathways and RD&I needs – developed by Stichting Wageningen
Research, Institute Wageningen Food & Biobased Research

9
 • Pre-treatment technologies converting diverse and low-quality biomass feedstocks
to higher quality bio-based commodities that meet the processing requirements of
a variety of biorefining conversion processes for widescale use. This potentially can
also decouple sustainable decentralised refining to produce bio-based commodities
from more centralised processing of these into bio-based intermediates and
products;

• Conversion processes (e.g. enzymatic processing, fermentation, esterification,

hydrolysis, chemical pulping, gasification etc.) that are more energy efficient and
sometimes product selective to increase market competitiveness;

• A clear approach to assessing the sustainability (incl. end-of-life strategies) of bio-

based products.

In the new EC Horizon Europe Programme (2021-2027) significant budget will become
available to tackle biorefinery related technical barriers, for example within Pillar2 "Global
Challenges and European Industrial Competitiveness" - Cluster6 "Food, Bioeconomy,
natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment". Also within the linked follow-up of the
successful Bio-Based Industries Joint Undertaking (BBI-JU), i.e. the EU Partnership for a
Circular Bio-based Europe (CBE), biorefinery technology development, demonstration and
market introduction will be supported.

EU bio-based chemicals and materials market demand to 2030

Two scenarios to 2030 for the demand for bio-based chemicals and materials in the EU
have been developed. The high growth scenario assumes: a favourable macro-economic
environment and policy for bio-based products, including a strong recovery from the Covid-
19 pandemic, a high oil price (increasing the competitiveness of bio-based products in
some applications), a market pull policy put in place for bio-based chemicals and materials
and there is widespread financial support for various types of biorefinery investments.
These factors are contradictory or do not develop in the low growth scenario.

Using the JRC study “Insights into the European market for bio-based chemicals. Analysis
based on 10 key product categories” 12 as a basis for today’s bio-based chemicals and
materials consumption, the potential demand in 2030 (Figure 2) could grow significantly
in the high growth scenario to ~16 million tonnes per year (Mtpa) growing at about 9.9%
per year until 2030, but could reach approximately only half this amount in the low growth
scenario growing at about 3.0% per year13.

12
Spekreijse, Jurjen; Lammens, Tijs; Parisi, Claudia; Ronzon, Tevecia; Vis, Martijn: Insights into the European market
for bio-based chemicals. Analysis based on 10 key product categories. (2019) JRC Science Policy Report, source:
https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/publication/insights-european-market-bio-based-chemicals
13
WP 5 – Market prospects for biorefineries to 2030 – demand scenarios developed by Fachagentur Nachwachsende
Rohstoffe (FNR)

10
 Figure 2. Demand for bio-based products 2019, and 2030 low- and high scenario14

EU supply outlook for bio-based chemicals and materials to 2030

The current bio-based chemicals and materials supply from EU biorefineries is estimated
at 4.6 million tonnes (Figure 3). It is estimated that supply from new or expanded
biorefineries could grow by an additional 3.1 million tonnes in the EU in 2030 in the high
growth scenario, whilst in the low growth scenario this could be limited to an additional 1.1
million tonnes15.

These growth scenarios set the upper and lower bound of the biorefinery outlook
deployment between 2020 and 2030 based on publicly available information on chemical
and material driven biorefineries. These are growth scenarios, so they do not include the
potential closure of existing biorefineries that are currently operational in the EU.

Figure 3. Demand vs. Supply of biochemicals and biomaterials in the EU in 2030.

14
The group “fibres” is limited to man-made bio-based fibres. The “additives” group additives includes bio-derived
plasticisers only. The category “Other” consists of the product groups “Paints, coatings, inks and dyes” and
“Cosmetics and personal care products”. Product categories (see Table 1) not included in the demand assessment
are: agrochemicals, flavours and fragrances, nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, organic fFertilizers, amd composities.
The production of paper and board is not included into the product groups.
15
WP 5 – Market prospects for biorefineries to 2030 – supply scenarios developed by E4tech

11
This additional supply has to be provided by expanding operational biorefineries, new
demonstration scale plants, new commercial scale plants that have been announced or
those that are expected to be announced based on pathways at demonstration scale today.

These pathways potentially could produce a wide range of bio-based products that are used
across the product groups. A selection of some of these bio-based chemicals and materials
have been developed into case studies considering the drivers and barriers to their
development, competing pathways to produce them and their market prospects16.

There are several biorefinery pathways that produce products that can be used as biofuels
or bio-based chemicals. Pathways A, B and E all can produce ethanol which is primarily
used as a fuel today, and Pathways D and I may produce biomethanol. These are almost
exclusively used as transport fuel today in the EU, although some bioethanol is already
used for chemicals (e.g. as a solvent) or to produce ethylene outside of the region and
fossil methanol is used in larger volumes for chemical applications. In addition, there are
smaller scale activities currently under development for the use of pyrolysis oil fractions
for chemicals and materials in conjunction with biofuel products.

A share of the production of these products has been considered to be sold for chemicals
and materials, with the remainder for biofuels in the high scenario. This additional
‘advanced biofuels to bio-based chemicals’ supply represents a large potential for
increasing the bio-based chemicals and materials, but is expected to require additional
policy changes. It will be important to consider in developments to the Renewable Energy
Directive (RED II), in Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and Smart Mobility strategies. Policy
support for producing bio-based chemicals and materials via these pathways could not only
bring about environmental benefits, such as lower greenhouse gas emissions. There is a
risk of a decreasing market for liquid biofuels as a result of road transport electrification,
particularly for ethanol (blending use with gasoline), and therefore there could be potential
for “advanced biofuels” driven biorefineries to partially refocus on chemicals and
downstream materials. In addition, policy support for bio-based chemicals and materials,
as well as biofuels from these pathways, could reduce perceived investment risk for these
biorefineries as they would have wider addressable markets.

For both growth scenarios, the EU demand is higher than the projected supply in 2030
(Figure 3). The shortfall could be met through imports from non-EU countries and/or supply
from alternative ramp-up routes.

Alternative ramp-up routes could include biofuel-driven biorefineries using feed/food crop
feedstocks switching focus to the chemicals market (e.g. existing ethanol plants could sell
higher quantities into the chemicals market). One major route could be dehydrating
ethanol to produce ethylene (the largest chemical building block/platform chemical), which
Braskem in Brazil and Croda in the US operate at commercial scale. Co-processing is also
an option that is already being done commercially in the EU, either through the production
of chemicals or chemical feedstocks in petroleum refineries, co-processing of biomass/bio-
based feedstocks in steam crackers or bio-methane in existing conventional methanol
plants.

There is significant uncertainty surrounding both the technical feasibility of some co-
processing routes, biomass availability, the potential use of the products produced for
chemicals and materials compared to fuels, as well as policy (e.g. the Sustainable Finance
Taxonomy Draft Act states that food or feed crops may not be used as bio-based feedstock
for the production of chemicals) that may affect these developments. The study considers
existing capacity of food/feed crop-based ethanol plants, petroleum refineries, steam
crackers and methanol plants in the EU and their potential to co-process biomass to
produce bio-based chemicals and materials. It is estimated that between 5.4 million tonnes
of bio-based chemicals and materials in the low growth scenario and 11.7 in the high

16
Case study products: propylene glycol, 1,4-butanediol, lactic acid, methanol, fatty acid and PEG esters, acetic acid,
fatty alcohol ethoxylate, micro-fibrillated cellulose, thermoplastic starch and lignin based phenolic resins.

12
growth scenario could be produced in these facilities by 2030. If scaled to this level, these
alternative ramp-up routes, could help to balance the EU supply and demand by 2030.

Key actions needed to support EU bio-based chemicals and materials production

The outlook for biorefinery deployment could move towards the high growth scenario if
actions proposed in the roadmaps below are implemented (Figure 7)17. The actions are
focused on how to bring about the maximum benefits to the EU (e.g. largest greenhouse
gas savings), and could also support developments beyond biorefining, supporting
chemicals and materials produced from recycled or CO2-based processes as well.

Policy and regulation is essential to close the large gap between the market’s willingness
to pay and bioproduct costs, addressing the economic barriers to deployment identified as
the most important by stakeholders. Policy that supports chemicals and materials that
provide environmental benefits such as greenhouse gas savings should be implemented.
The types of policy actions included in the roadmap are GHG reduction targets, mandates
(e.g. in public procurement), bans/reducing targets on use of fossil and non-recycled
products, as well as taxes on some fossil products and carbon. These policies need to be
developed and implemented in 5 years to have an impact on deployment by 2030.

The individual biorefinery pathways cannot be considered in isolation, or without

considering policy and other changes that may influence the deployment rates of one or
more of the pathways. Policy developments will help determine the overall and relative
ramp-up of these pathways. Whilst the roadmaps suggest areas of policy that should be
considered, they do not specify fixed policy actions including targets, and therefore the
impact of policy actions on deployment will only become clear through additional
investigation and modelling, and then once the policies are implemented.

One such policy action is to ensure that biorefinery projects are adequately classified under
the EU’s Sustainable Finance Taxonomy18. The Taxonomy covers several areas related to
biorefineries including agriculture and forestry, and the manufacture of chemicals and
plastics. The Draft Act states that food or feed crops may not be used as bio-based
feedstock for the manufacture of organic basic chemicals or of plastic in primary form under
the Taxonomy, so the Taxonomy would support only non-food/feed pathways D-K. Overall,
the requirements for financing need to be carefully considered to ensure sustainability
without unnecessarily restricting biorefinery development.

In the outlook for biorefinery deployment developed the conditions for non-crop feedstocks
for the production of chemicals and materials in the EU are assumed to be favourable. The
outlook almost reaches the high scenario as the majority of the projects in the high scenario
are expected to focus on the utilisation of secondary feedstocks.

17
WP 6 – EU biorefinery outlook and roadmap for deployment – developed by E4tech
18
European Commission. Sustainable finance – EU classification system for green investments. Draft regulation and
annexes for EU taxonomy for sustainable activities. 2020. Available online at: https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-
regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/12302-Climate-change-mitigation-and-adaptation-taxonomy#ISC_WORKFLOW

13
Figure 4. Chemical and materials driven biorefinery outlook for deployment – additional biorefineries by 2030

Overall 42 new chemical and materials driven biorefineries, including 5 demonstration scale
plants, could become operational by 2030 adding approximately 3.1 million tonnes of
additional capacity, with a significant volumes coming from debottlenecking19/expansion
of existing biorefineries (largely Pathways A-E) and new biorefineries allocated in Pathways
D and E. All pathways are expected to see some new biorefineries by 2030 and it is noted
that although in some cases biorefineries may be considered as combinations of pathways
(e.g. D+E) or include some of the processes of just one pathway.

Small, medium and large scale commercial biorefineries are all included in the outlook
ranging from 6 to over 220 kta product capacity, with the scale primarily dependent on the
pathway, feedstock utilised and size/attractiveness of the markets for the products
produced.

For pathway D, the volumes of bio-based chemicals and materials shown in the outlook for
biorefinery deployment do not include pulp used for traditional applications. In addition,
there are announced pulping biorefineries that will initially be focused on more traditional
pulp and derivatives (e.g. paper and board). These more traditional products are not in the
scope of this study, but these investments offer the future potential for valorisation of side
streams to produce the bio-based chemicals and materials covered in this study. This could
include the extraction and further conversion of crude tall oil, lignin and turpentine from
black liquor and/or through the development of innovative cellulose based products. A
wider selection of pulping biorefineries are detailed in the Confederation of European Paper
Industries “Innovative bio-based products for a sustainable future: A Cepi study on pulp &
paper industry biorefineries in Europe”20

19
Debottlenecking is the process of increasing production of existing plants and equipment by improving processes
and/or revamping equipment.
20
CEPI, Innovative bio-based products for a sustainable future: A Cepi study on pulp & paper industry biorefineries in
Europe (2021) https://www.cepi.org/innovative-bio-based-products-for-a-sustainable-future-a-cepi-study-on-pulp-
paper-industry-biorefineries-in-europe/

14
 Figure 5. Supply ramp up, additional supply from debottlenecking/expansion (Deb/Exp) of existing commercial scale
biorefineries

Pathway D and E utilise lignocellulosic wood/forestry and developments are expected in

Nordic countries where there are large sources of feedstock, well developed biomass supply
chains and existing pulp and paper industries. Investment in biorefineries in the BIOEAST
initiative countries has historically been lower, but these countries also have significant
potential from these residues particularly Poland, Romania, Czech Republic and Latvia.
Pathway E also utilises agricultural residues and the BIOEAST initiative countries include
some of the countries with the largest agricultural residue potential (based on S2Biom) in
the EU, with Poland (3rd highest), Romania (5th highest) and Hungary (6th highest) all with
estimated nationwide potentials of over 10 million tonnes per year.

When comparing the outlook of 42 new chemical and materials driven biorefineries to
previous biorefinery deployment outlooks, the definition of chemical and materials driven
biorefineries is also important to consider. The European Commission’s Bioeconomy
Strategy21 states the development of 300 new sustainable biorefineries by 2030. This
target was first mentioned in a roadmap22 developed during the BIO-TIC project23 in 2015.
The 42 biorefineries estimated in this outlook should not be compared to this 300 as:

• The current analysis only takes into account biorefineries producing chemical
building blocks, plastics and, to some extent, advanced ethanol as well. However,
it does not include biorefineries producing bio-based jet fuels as this is out of scope.

• BIO-TIC analysis spans the period 2008 to 2030, while the current analysis
considers only the period 2020 to 2030.

• The BIO-TIC roadmap estimated the number of new biorefineries that need to be
operating by 2030 in order to meet the estimated demand, while the current

21
European Commission. A sustainable bioeconomy for Europe - Strengthening the connection between economy,
society and the environment: updated bioeconomy strategy. 2018. Available online at:
https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/edace3e3-e189-11e8-b690-
01aa75ed71a1/language-en/format-PDF/source-149755478
22
BIO-TIC. A roadmap to a thriving industrial biotechnology sector in Europe. 2015. Available online at:
http://www.industrialbiotech-europe.eu/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/BIO-TIC-roadmap.pdf
23
The BIO-TIC project (2012-2015) was a FP7 funded project focusing on the industrial biotechnology sector in
Europe.

15
 analysis provides an estimate of the number of new biorefineries that can be
realistically deployed by 2030

Capital investment required is in the range of Euro 3.4 billion to Euro 13.7 billion for the
additional capacity. The capital investment required will depend on the investment type
made (e.g. expansion, re-purposing/converted, new brownfield biorefineries etc…) as well
as many other factors (process technology used, labour costs, materials costs, etc..). Some
of these factors (e.g. process technology) are very related to the biorefinery pathways,
whilst others will be more related to where the investment is planned, and if it is on a
greenfield or brownfield site. The range of capital investment in Figure 6 can be considered,
however not all of these investments are always possible. For example, there may not be
mothballed24 plants suitable to be converted to a chemical and material driven biorefinery
and further debottlenecking of existing biorefineries may not be possible.

Existing brownfield sites including pulp and paper mills, wood working manufacturing sites,
sugar and starch processing facilities, chemical parks, petroleum refineries and steam
crackers all offer shared infrastructure (including in some cases existing local port access)
and supply chains, potentially lowering the capital investment and operating costs for
biorefineries. Further, some of these locations can have underutilised land and
infrastructure as a result of declining industry, however coupled with a local skilled labour
force.

HIGHEST • New greenfield biorefinery

CAPEX

• New biorefinery on a brownfield site (lower capex from shared services

such as steam, water, power, storage, logistics etc…)

• Re-purposing/conversion of a plant on existing brownfield site (highly

project dependent as it only some equipment can be reused)

• Expansion of a biorefinery on a brownfield site (e.g. valorising a side

stream) – capacity increase often limited

• Debottlenecking (improving processes, revamping or new equipment) to

increase the capacity of existing biorefineries - capacity increase is limited
however

LOWEST • Co-processing / re-focus of existing plants from fuels to chemicals (drop-in

CAPEX such as methanol)

Figure 6. Investment types to ramp-up bio-based chemical and material production

The financing of these biorefineries is expected to come from both public and private
sources. For example, the recently (2020) agreed upon EU Recovery and Resilience
facility25 - which provides significant (672.5 billion Euros) financial support in the form of
loans and grants to EU Member States could help to support investment in biorefinery
expansion, contributing to the realisation of the Green Deal objectives.

The biorefinery deployment outlook could result in significant benefits for the EU including
the creation of regional local jobs, overall GHG savings and increased raw material security
(reduced imports of fossil feedstocks from outside the EU). We estimate that 3.5 million
tonnes of GHG saved relative to fossil comparators on a lifecycle basis. This is roughly
equivalent taking 750 000 internal combustion engine passenger vehicles of the road for
one year26. In addition, about 5.6 million tonnes of naphtha, a fraction of crude oil, could

24
Stopping the use of a plant but keeping it in good condition so that it can resused/started up again
25
The Recovery and Resilience Facility https://ec.europa.eu/info/business-economy-euro/recovery-
coronavirus/recovery-and-resilience-facility_en#the-recovery-and-resilience-facility
26
US EPA: United States Environmental Protection Agency https://www.epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gas-
equivalencies-calculator

16
be substituted by 2030. Job creation through the development of full supply chains (from
feedstock sourcing/production, through biorefining and then downstream processing and
use) could contribute significantly to the target of 400,000 green jobs by 203527, especially
if the feedstock is sourced from in the EU and the downstream processing also takes place
region.

Realising the biorefinery deployment outlook could bring about significant benefits but this
is only possible through action taken now and until 2030 by policy makers, the bio-based
industry and its associations, the chemicals and materials industries and their associations,
academia & research institutions, the investment community and NGOs. The roadmap
(Figure 7) presents the key actions to take, with their importance categorised by barrier
category (e.g. economic). Further details of these actions are provided in Section 6 ‘EU
biorefinery outlook and roadmap for deployment28’, as well as further roadmap with specific
actions for each biorefinery pathway.

27
The Strategic Innovation and Research Agenda (SIRA) https://biconsortium.eu/about/our-vision-strategy/sira
28
WP 6 – EU biorefinery outlook and roadmap for deployment – developed by E4tech

17
 Stakeholder type
Policy makers
Bio industry & associations
Chemical/material industry & Industry associations • Clear market based policy in place ​

EXPECTED STATUS
• Sustainability framework in
Academia & Research institutions operation​
NGOs & Civil societies Type of actions • 42 additional biorefineries across
Investment community Policy & regulation different pathways​
• Potential GHG savings of 3.5
Support for RD&D and scale up million tonnes ​CO2eq

Information and coordination

2020 2025 2030

Set EU sector targets for GHG

reduction in EU chemicals
production

Develop EU mandate for GHG Implement increasing EU mandate for GHG reduction in chemicals sold in the EU
reduction in chemicals sold
in the EU

Develop EU mandate for Implement EU mandate for bio/low GHG content for hard to recycle products
bio/low GHG content for hard
to recycle products

Ban sale of selected non-recycled fossil-based products and/or set a

reducing target for fossil material used

Chemical producers and users

set voluntary GHG reduction
commitments

Develop MS public procurement Implement MS public procurement standards specifying bio, recycled
standards specifying bio, recycled or CO2-based products
or CO2-based products

Tax fossil input to chemicals industry

ECONOMIC

Reform EU ETS to increase CO2 price

Develop Carbon Border Implement Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism

Adjustment Mechanism

Support investigation of optimal use of EU biomass feedstock

Conduct R&D focusing on cost reduction across all biorefinery pathways

through continuing activities such as Horizon Europe, Circular
Bio-based Europe and MS support

Establish partnerships to develop biorefineries on existing

industrial sites to reduce costs

Improve process economics by identifying connections between

different pathways and other industries

Expand biomass/waste feedstock databases to identify low cost resources

Develop regional bioeconomy

strategies

Harmonise bioproducts’
sustainability requirements
with existing schemes

Consider CCU in the EU ETS

Consider all biomass and land-using activities when setting strategies

DIRECTION
STRATEGIC

for each. For example, on circular economy, bioeconomy and food

Set strategic objectives for the biorefinery sector overall including

acceptable use of land and crops

Policy design to enable non crop/ low land use impact routes

18
 2020 2025 2030

Continue EU public co-financing for pilot/demonstration plants

Pilot plant data collection to help develop early stage TEAs and modelling

Reduce scaling up costs by making available/providing support

SCALE UP OF NEW

for shared facilities

TECHNOLOGIES

Ensure classification of biorefinery

projects under the EU’s
Sustainable Finance Taxonomy

Increase equity investment in companies

Implement grant/ loan scheme for feasibility studies

Additional support for new technologies such as sub-targets or subsidy for limited volumes of products from new pathways

Invest in enhancing the engineering know-how of academic research teams

Develop a standard Implement a standard for bio-based products’ sustainability

for bio-based products’
sustainability

Support from EU/ MSs for SMEs to comply with sustainability standards

Provide EU funding to Agree policy on

quantify risk of undegraded biodegradable bioplastics
compostable plastic residues
SUSTAINABILITY

Organise information campaigns

on GMMs used in bioprocesses

Develop bio-based product

labels

Early adoption of labelled products in highly visible markets

Establish bio-based
terminology for all products

Require publicly supported projects to assess sustainability impacts and communicate this transparently

Provide support for green hydrogen projects in biorefineries

R&D on European biomass resource potential

Provide funding for regional and local biomass resource assessments

FEEDSTOCK

Support more projects to develop tools/platforms to support biomass supply chains

Support establishment of biomass and waste supply companies

Include crops for biorefineries in GM crop policy

Enhance targets for collecting and recycling wastes

Develop policy to align material classification as waste, residue or coproduct in all MSs

Implement EU-level matchmaking programme for companies

MARKET
ENTRY

Reduce REACH registration fee

for sustainable chemicals

Figure 7. Roadmap with actions common to all pathways

19
RÉSUMÉ

Une bioéconomie circulaire a le potentiel de jouer un rôle important dans la construction

d’un futur durable et peut contribuer à l’atteinte des objectifs ambitieux du pacte vert pour
l’Europe (European Green Deal)29. Celui-ci inclut notamment l’objectif de réduire les
émissions de gaz à effet de serre de l'UE d'au moins 55 % d'ici 2030, comparé aux niveaux
de 1990. La bioéconomie circulaire contribue également à d'autres initiatives de l'UE, telles
que le plan d'action pour l’économie circulaire (Circular Economy Action Plan), la stratégie
de l’UE en faveur de la biodiversité (Biodiversity Strategy) et la stratégie "de la ferme à la
table" (Farm to Fork strategy). Dans la même logique, la stratégie européenne pour la
bioéconomie (Bioeconomy Strategy) publiée en 2018 contribue au pacte vert pour l’Europe,
ainsi qu’aux stratégies pour l’innovation de l’industrie, l’économie circulaire et l’énergie
propre30. Compte tenu de cette stratégie, la Direction Générale de la Recherche de de
l’Innovation de la Commission Européenne (DG RTD) a commissionné trois études pour
soutenir les politiques de recherche et d’innovation concernant les ressources et produits
biosourcés.

Cette étude, « EU Biorefinery Outlook to 2030 (Lot 3) », s’inscrit dans le cadre de la

stratégie Européenne pour la Bioéconomie, qui vise à faciliter le développement et le
déploiement de nouvelles bioraffineries durables, ainsi qu’à estimer la capacité potentielle
de différents types de bioraffineries.

Le bioraffinage peut être défini comme un procédé de transformation de la biomasse en

produits dits « biosourcés » commercialisables. Des ingrédients biosourcés sont utilisés
dans les secteurs de l’agro-alimentaire, de la chimie, des matériaux et de l’énergie
(électricité, chaleur/froid, carburants).31 Cette étude se concentre sur les bioraffineries
dont les produits principaux sont utilisables dans l’industrie chimique et des matériaux32
afin de produire des spécialités biosourcées à haute valeur ajoutée, tout en générant des
co-produits alimentaires et énergétiques (chaleur, électricité ou carburant). L'étude exclut
néanmoins les sites industriels dédiés à la production de bioénergie et de biocarburants
ainsi que les installations conventionnelles de traitement de la biomasse (par ex.
production de papier).

Les bioraffineries ciblant la production de produits chimiques et matériaux peuvent jouer

un rôle important dans la bioéconomie ainsi que dans la transition de l’UE vers une
économie à bas carbone. L’utilisation de biomasse en provenance de l'UE pourrait
potentiellement augmenter la sécurité de l’approvisionnement en matières premières,
substituer certains produits d’origine fossile permettant ainsi de réduire leurs émissions
associées et aussi créer des emplois et des opportunités commerciales, en particulier dans
les zones rurales. Leur activité vient compléter d’autres technologies qui contribuent au
développement de la bioéconomie et de l’économie circulaire, telles que le traitement de
biomasse dans les structures de raffinerie pétrolières, l’utilisation de la biomasse pour la
production de biocarburants et de bioénergie, ainsi que d’autres voies de production
émergentes basées sur le CO2 et le carbone recyclé.

Système de classification des bioraffineries

Dans un premier temps cette étude définit un système de classification pour les
bioraffineries dont les produits principaux sont destinés au secteur de la chimie et des

29
Bioeconomy & European Green Deal https://knowledge4policy.ec.europa.eu/bioeconomy/bioeconomy-european-
green-deal_en
30
Bioeconomy Strategy https://ec.europa.eu/info/research-and-innovation/research-area/bioeconomy/bioeconomy-
strategy_en
31
IEA Bioenergy Task 42 - La biomasse peut être des cultures, de la biomasse aquatique, de la sylviculture, des
résidus primaires (agroforesterie) - secondaires (processus) et tertiaires (post-consommation), etc. Ce cadre sera
donc très utile pour la prise de décision politique pour les prochaines R&D nécessaires à la mise en œuvre du pacte
vert pour l’Europe.
32
Les produits chimiques et matériaux biosourcés incluent des produits chimiques à haute valeur ajoutée, tels que les
produits pharmaceutiques, les produits cosmétiques, les additifs alimentaires, etc., ainsi que les matériaux de base
tels que les biopolymères ou les matières premières chimiques (c'est-à-dire les ingrédients chimiques de base).

20
matériaux33. Ce système de classification est structuré autour des quatre catégories
principales de la chaîne de valeur. Ces catégories incluent : les matières premières, les
procédés de conversion, les substances intermédiaires dites « plateformes » (« platform
chemicals ») et les produits finaux. La classification se base sur le travail de la Tâche 42
de l’AIE (Agence Internationale de l’Energie), dont les catégories de produits chimiques et
matériaux biosourcés ont été révisées et étendues.

Le système de classification se concentre sur les bioraffineries axées sur la production de

produits chimiques et de matériaux. Les groupes de produits finaux considérés dans la
classification proviennent de la stratégie européenne pour la bioéconomie et de la
Nomenclature statistique des Activités économiques dans la Communauté Européenne
(NACE).

Table 3. Classification des Bioraffineries

1. Matières premières 2. Procédés de conversion 3. Substances 4. Produits finaux

plateformes
1.1 Biomasse primaire: 2.1. Biochimique: • Biocharbon (biochar) 4.1. Chimiques :
• Biomasse aquatique • Fermentation aérobie • Biomasse torréfiée • Additifs
• Biomasse • Digestion anaérobie (biocoal) • Produits
lignocellulosique • Hydrolyse enzymatique • Huile pyrolytique (bio- phytosanitaires
agricole et de prairies • Fermentation crude) • Ingrédients
• Bois et biomasse • Bioconversion • Biogaz chimiques de base34
ligneuse • Autres conversions biologiques • Huiles biologiques • Catalyseurs &
• Cultures oléagineuses • Biohydrogène Enzymes
• Cultures sucrières 2.2. Chimique: • Bio-Naphtha • Colorants
• Cultures céréalières • Catalytique • Sucres pentoses (C5) • Cosmétiques
• *Autre biomasse • Estérification & hexoses (C6) • Aromes & Parfums
primaire • Hydrogénation • Dioxyde de Carbone • Lubrifiants
• Hydrolyse (fermentation) • Lignine • Nutraceutiques
1.2 Biomasse • Méthanation • Huiles • Peintures et
secondaire: • Production de pâte à papier • Fibres organiques revêtements
• Biomasse microbienne • Vaporeformage • Jus biologique • Pharmaceutiques
• Résidus agricoles • Electrolyse de l’eau • Protéines • Solvants
• Résidus de biomasse • Conversion du gas à l’eau • Liquide pyrolytique • Tensioactifs
aquatique • *Autre conversion chimique • Amidon • *Autres produits
• Résidus forestiers et • Gaz de synthèse chimiques
industrie forestière 2.3. Mécanique et
thermomécanique : • *Autre plateforme
• Résidus de gestion de 4.2. Matériaux:
la nature et du • Mélang • Composites
paysage • Extraction • **Fibres
• Résidus de bio-produits • Fractionnement mécanique & • Engrais biologiques
recyclés thermomécanique • Polymères
• *Autres résidus • Mise en pâte mécanique • Résines
organiques • Procédés de séparation • *Autres matériaux
• Autres conversions
mécaniques et 4.3. Nourriture
thermomécaniques
4.4. Nourriture animale
2.4. Thermochimique:
• Combustion 4.5. Energie :
• Gazéification • Agents de
• Liquéfaction hydrothermale refroidissement
• Pyrolyse • Carburants
• Extraction de • Chaleur
fluides supercritiques (SFE) • Electricité
• Torréfaction & Carbonisation • *Autres produits
• *Autres conversions énergétiques
thermochimiques

* La rubrique "Autres" permet l’inclusion de nouveaux concepts, technologies ou catégories de produits.

**Les ’Fibres’ peuvent être répartis selon leur application : fibres textiles, papier, panneaux de fibres, fibres de
carbone, fibres spécialisées et autres.
†La biomasse primaire est la matière première produite par la photosynthèse naturelle ou artificielle. La biomasse
secondaire est produite pendant le traitement, la conversion ou la décomposition de la biomasse primaire et des
matières organiques.

33
Module 1 – Système de classification de bioraffineries (« WP1 – Biorefinery Classification ») développé par Stichting
Wageningen Research, Institute Wageningen Food & Biobased Research
34
Un ingrédient chimique de base est un terme utilisé pour définir un composé chimique qui peut être assemblé de
façon modulaire pour former de larges structures moléculaires (buidling block en amglais)

21
Les filières de bioraffinerie considérées et leur statut de développement

A partir du système de classification, onze filières de bioraffinerie (A-K), à niveaux de

développement technologique et de déploiement commercial variables, ont été
identifiées35. Les voies A-D représentent les filières établies à échelle commerciale, tandis
que les filières E-K sont à des stades de déploiements plus précoces.

Table 4. Filières de bioraffinerie à production destinée aux secteurs de la chimie et des matériaux

Filières de bioraffinerie

Bioraffinerie simple plateforme (sucres C6) à base de cultures sucrières

Bioraffinerie simple plateforme (amidon) à base de cultures amylacées

Bioraffinerie simple plateforme (huile) à base de cultures, déchets et résidus oléagineux

Bioraffinerie double plateforme (pulpes & liqueurs résiduaires) à base de biomasse ligneuse (bois)

Bioraffinerie triple plateforme (sucres C5/C6 & lignine) à base de biomasse lignocellulosique

Bioraffinerie double plateforme (fibres organiques and jus organiques) à base de biomasse verte

Bioraffinerie double plateforme (huile et biogaz) à base de biomasse aquatique

Bioraffinerie double plateforme (fibres organiques et huile) à base de fibres naturelles

Bioraffinerie simple plateforme (gaz de synthèse) à base de biomasse lignocellulosique et de déchets

municipaux

Bioraffinerie double plateforme (liquide pyrolytique & biochar) à base de biomasse lignocellulosique

Bioraffinerie simple plateforme (bio-crude) à base de biomasse lignocellulosique, biomasse aquatique, résidus
organiques

a. Déchets/résidus de graisses et d'huiles appartiennent à la catégorie « autres résidus organiques »

b. La biomasse verte et les fibres naturelles appartiennent à la catégorie « biomasse lignocellulosique agricole et
de prairies »
c. La biomasse lignocellulosique inclut la biomasse lignocellulosique des prairies, bois et biomasse ligneuse, les
résidus agricoles et les résidus forestiers/d’industrie forestière

Statut actuel des bioraffineries en Europe

Plus de 400 bioraffineries axées sur la production à destination des secteurs chimiques et
des matériaux à échelle commerciale ou de démonstration ont été identifiées. La base de
données développée contient les bioraffineries situées dans l’UE36 et dans les dix pays tiers
considérés dans l’étude37. La majorité, environ 300 d’entre elles, se trouvent dans l’UE.

Parmi les bioraffineries opérationnelles, les plateformes à sucres C6 (filières A, B) et la

plateforme à huiles (filière C), qui utilisent des ressources agricoles (céréalières et
oléagineuses), comptent pour 56% du nombre total d’installations. La filière D représente
près de 20% des bioraffineries opérationnelles. Le procédé biochimique transforme les
pulpes obtenues à partir de biomasse forestière et représente ainsi la filière avec la plus
forte utilisation de biomasse secondaire (ex. résidus forestiers). Les filières E-K forment le
reste des bioraffineries européennes, avec les filières E et H représentant chacune environ
10% du nombre de sites de bioraffinage.

35
Module 3 - Filières de bioraffinage existantes et émergentes et besoins de R&D (« WP3 – Available and emerging
biorefinery pathways and RD&I needs ») – développé par Stichting Wageningen Research, Institute Wageningen
Food & Biobased Research
36
Module 4 - Déploiement des bioraffineries dans l'UE et dans le monde, base de données (« WP4 – EU and global
biorefinery deployment “database”») développe par B.T.G Biomass Technology Group BV basé sur la base de
données de JRC: https://datam.jrc.ec.europa.eu/datam/mashup/BIOBASED_INDUSTRY/index.html
37
10 pays tiers: États-Unis, Canada, Australie, Nouvelle-Zélande, Japon, Brésil, Chine, Inde, Thaïlande, Norvège,
Suisse, Royaume-Uni

22
Le secteur forestier a depuis longtemps su innover et diversifier sa gamme de produits.
Dans un tel contexte, le bioraffinage transforme les principaux constituants de la biomasse
forestière et valorise les flux secondaires dans le but de produire des produits chimiques
de spécialité et matériaux biosourcés (autres que les produits conventionnels, par ex.
papier ou panneaux). Ces opérations intègrent souvent plusieurs filières de bioraffineries
(ex : D+E). Elles sont un bon exemple de la manière dont les bioraffineries peuvent inclure
une variété de procédés, de substances intermédiaires « plateformes », de produits et de
matières premières.

Figure 8. Répartition des bioraffineries axées sur les produits chimiques et les matériaux en 2020 dans l’UE

Moteurs et obstacles au déploiement commercial

Cette étude identifie les moteurs principaux du déploiement des bioraffineries dans l’UE38:
l’accord européen pour un pacte vert, les soutiens gouvernementaux à l’extension des
bioraffineries, la nécessité de réduire la dépendance aux matières premières et leurs
émissions de gaz à effet de serre, ainsi que les potentiels avantages fonctionnels que les
produits biosourcés peuvent fournir.

Le manque de rentabilité économique représente néanmoins l’obstacle principal au

déploiement de produits chimiques et de matériaux biosourcés, en particulier pour les
bioraffineries produisant de larges volumes de produits chimiques de base (« commodity
chemicals »). On constate un écart considérable entre les coûts de production de produits
biosourcés et les prix sur le marché de produits conventionnels équivalents. Cette situation
résulte en partie de la réticence des utilisateurs intermédiaires et finaux à payer des
produits chimiques et des matériaux renouvelables/bas carbone biosourcés plus chers que
leurs équivalents fossiles. La concurrence des biocarburants se révèle également
problématique, notamment pour l’approvisionnement en biomasse durable et bon marché.
En outre, certaines bioraffineries en UE peuvent être moins compétitives, comparé à

38
Module 2 – Moteurs et obstacles pour les bioraffineries (« WP2 – Drivers and barriers for biorefineries »)
développé par B.T.G Biomass technology group BV avec la contribution des parties prenantes dans le cadre
d'ateliers, de réunions et d'entretiens individuels

23
d’autres régions du monde en raison du coût plus élevé de la consommation énergétique,
de la main d’œuvre, des taxes et d'un accès limité aux matières premières à faible coût.
De plus, le projet de loi de la Commission pour l'acte délégué de la taxonomie verte, qui
vise à évaluer si une activité contribue bien à l'atténuation et/ou à l'adaptation au
changement climatique, exclut la possibilité d’utiliser les mécanismes de financement
durables volontaires (« voluntary sustainable financing ») pour soutenir la production de
produits chimiques, plastiques ou biocarburants à base de cultures destinées à
l'alimentation humaine et/ou animale. Cette mesure aura pour effet principal de limiter les
filières de biomasse utilisables, réduisant d’autant les options possibles pour
l’approvisionnement des bioraffineries.

La mise en place d’une capacité de production à grande échelle de nouveaux produits

chimiques et matériaux biosourcés représente un défi financier important car il nécessite
un haut niveau d’investissement. Ceci est dû aux risques technologiques et commerciaux
associés à la construction de nouveaux sites de production.

Toutes les filières de produits biosourcés, à des degrés variables, sont soumises à des
contraintes à court terme liées à l’approvisionnement immédiat en ressources durables,
ainsi qu’à des contraintes à moyen et long terme liées au potentiel de mobilisation de
ressources durables dans une bioéconomie circulaire et compétitive. L’UE a un large
potentiel de production de biomasse primaire et agricole ainsi que de résidus de
transformation et post-consommation. Pourtant ces ressources feront dans l’avenir l’objet
d’une demande croissante de la part de divers secteurs. Les investissements dans les
installations et des produits respectifs sont affectés également affectés par des
préoccupations éthiques liées à leur utilisation ainsi qu’à leur exclusion proposée des
activités de financement volontaire durable.

De nombreux produits biosourcés présentent des avantages en matière environnementale

(comme la réduction des émissions de gaz à effet de serre) et dans certains cas, des
caractéristiques qui surpassent leurs homologues fossiles (par exemple, la biodégradabilité
de certains polymères). Afin de maximiser ces bénéfices, les produits biosourcés durables
doivent être avantagés par les schémas appropriés, développés dans le contexte du pacte
vert européen. Les impacts environnementaux des produits biosourcés doivent toutefois
être mieux compris et quantifiés. Actuellement, il existe un manque de données quant à
ces impacts et les éventuels bénéfices des produits biosourcés sur leur cycle de vie
complet. Les recherches doivent donc se concentrer sur les informations quantitatives sur
la durabilité des produits biosourcés sur l’ensemble de leur cycle de vie, y compris en fin
de vie, pour démontrer leur avantages environnementaux potentiels par rapport aux
produits conventionnels.

Aujourd'hui, les politiques publiques ne permettent pas d’améliorer l'attractivité du

marché. La Commission européenne va proposer une législation « Sustainable Product
Policy Initiative » qui étendra la directive sur l'écoconception (Ecodesign Directive en
anglais) au-delà des aspects énergétiques à un large éventail de produits -y compris les
produits biosourcés- et utilisera la méthode de l'empreinte environnementale des produits
(Product Environmental Footprint method). Toutefois, des politiques incitatives
supplémentaires pourraient s’avérer nécessaires pour surmonter les obstacles
économiques au déploiement commercial des produits chimiques et aux matériaux
biosourcés.

Les activités de R&D nécessaires pour surmonter les obstacles techniques

• Certaines filières de bioraffinerie sont encore à un niveau bas de maturité technologique

(TRL, pour Technology Readiness Level en anglais). Le soutien financier à la recherche
fondamentale et appliquée, l’expérimentation, la démonstration et aux premières
applications commerciales seront nécessaires au développement des bioraffineries

24
 axées sur les produits chimiques et les matériaux dans l’UE. La R&D doit s’attaquer aux
critères techniques les plus pertinents pour le développement39, ce qui inclut :

• Des systèmes logistiques robustes et flexibles (collecte, transport et stockage),

adaptés à tout type de biomasse européenne ;

• Des technologies de prétraitement pouvant convertir un large spectre de ressources

en biomasse de faible qualité en produits intermédiaires répondant aux exigences
de qualité et densité énergétique permettant le traitement par divers procédés de
conversion de bioraffinerie à grande échelle. Cela peut également permettre de
décentraliser le raffinage de matière première en produits chimiques de base. La
transformation en produits intermédiaires et finaux biosourcés pourra quant à elle
être centralisée.

• Des procédés de conversion (p.ex. traitement enzymatique, fermentation,

estérification, hydrolyse, production de pulpe à papier, gazéification, etc....) plus
efficients énergétiquement afin d’accroître la compétitivité de certains produits
spécifiques.

• Une approche claire pour évaluer la durabilité (y compris les stratégies de « fin de
vie ») des produits biosourcés.

D’importants budgets doivent être mis à disposition au sein du nouveau programme

Horizon (2021-2027) pour aider les bioraffineries à surmonter certains obstacles
techniques. Les activités prévues au sein du deuxième pilier « Global Challenges and
European Industrial Competitiveness – Cluster 6 Food, Bioeconomy, natural Resources,
Agriculture and Environment » représentent un exemple de soutien financier important.
En outre, la prolongation du programme de l’UE « Bio-Based Industries Joint Undertaking
(BBI-JU) » par le nouveau programme de l’UE « Parternship for a Circular Bio-based
Europe (CBE) » soutiendra le développement technologique, les projets de démonstration
et l’entrée sur le marché.

Demande en produits chimiques et matériaux biosourcés dans l'UE à l’horizon

2030

Deux scénarios de croissance ont été développés pour estimer la demande en produits
chimiques et matériaux biosourcés dans l’UE à l’horizon 2030. Le scénario de croissance
élevée suppose un environnement macro-économique et politique favorable aux produits
biosourcés. Cela comprend notamment une forte reprise économique suite à la pandémie
de Covid-19, un prix du pétrole élevé (augmentant la compétitivité relative des produits
d’origine biologique dans certaines applications), ainsi que la mise en place de politiques
visant à renforcer l’attractivité des produits biosourcés et des soutiens financiers
généralisés pour le développement de bioraffineries. Dans le cas du scénario de croissance
basse, ces facteurs sont contradictoires ou alors ne sont pas conséquents.

L’étude “Insights into the European market for bio-based chemicals”40 publiée en 2019 par
le JRC est par ailleurs utilisée comme référence de la consommation actuelle en produits
chimiques et matériaux biosourcés. Ainsi, la demande potentielle pour 2030 pourrait croître
de manière conséquente dans le scénario de croissance élevée à ~16 millions de tonnes
par an (Mtpa), augmentant d’environ 9,9% par an jusqu’en 2030. Dans le cas du scénario

39
Module 3 - Filières de bioraffinage existantes et émergentes et besoins de R&D (« WP3 – Available and emerging
biorefinery pathways and RD&I needs ») – développé par Stichting Wageningen Research, Institute Wageningen
Food & Biobased Research
40
Spekreijse, Jurjen; Lammens, Tijs; Parisi, Claudia; Ronzon, Tevecia; Vis, Martijn: Insights into the European
market for bio-based chemicals. Analysis based on 10 key product categories. (2019) JRC Science Policy Report,
source: https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/publication/insights-european-market-bio-based-chemicals

25
de croissance basse, cette demande pourrait n’atteindre qu’environ la moitié de ce volume,
avec une croissance annuelle de 3% 41.

Figure 9. Demande de marché pour les produits chimiques et matériaux biosourcés en 2019 et 2030 pour les deux scenarios
analysés 42

Approvisionnement de produits chimiques et matériaux biosourcés à l’horizon

2030

L’offre actuelle de l’UE en produits biosourcés de bioraffineries est estimée à 4,6 millions
de tonnes (Figure3). Le scénario de croissance élevée estime que le lancement de nouvelles
bioraffineries et l’augmentation de la capacité de production des bioraffineries existantes
pourrait accroitre l’approvisionnement de 3,1 millions de tonnes supplémentaires dans l’UE
en 2030. Cette augmentation de la production se limiterait à 1,1 millions de tonnes
supplémentaires dans le scénario de croissance basse43.

Ces scénarios se basent sur les informations disponibles au public et fixent les limites
supérieures et inférieures des perspectives de déploiement des capacités de bioraffinage
entre 2020 et 2030. Etant des scénarios de croissance, ils ne considèrent donc pas la
fermeture potentielle des bioraffineries actuellement opérationnelles dans l'UE.

41
Module 5 - Perspectives de marché pour les bioraffineries à l'horizon 2030 (« WP 5 – Market prospects for
biorefineries to 2030 – demand scenarios ») développé par Fachagentur Nachwachsende Rohstoffe (FNR)
42
Le groupe des "fibres" se limite aux fibres synthétiques d'origine biologique. Le groupe "additifs" inclut
uniquement les plastifiants d'origine biologique. La catégorie "Autres" comprend les groupes de produits
"Peintures, revêtements, encres et colorants" et "Produits cosmétiques et de soins personnels". Les catégories
de produits (voir tableau 1) non incluses dans l'évaluation de la demande : produits agrochimiques, arômes et
parfums, nutraceutiques, produits pharmaceutiques, engrais organiques et composites. La production de papier
et de panneaux n'est pas incluse.
43
Module 5 - Perspectives de marché pour les bioraffineries à l'horizon 2030 - scénarios d'approvisionnement («
WP 5 – Market prospects for biorefineries to 2030 – supply scenarios ») développé par E4tech

26
 Figure 10. Offre vs. demande en produits chimiques et matériaux biosourcés dans l’UE en 2030.

Cette offre supplémentaire en produits biosourcés provient de l’expansion et de

l’amélioration des bioraffineries commerciales actuellement opérationnelles en UE, des
nouveaux sites de démonstration, des nouvelles bioraffineries commerciales annoncées et
de celles qui pourraient être annoncées à la suite des résultats des usines de
démonstrations.

Les filières de bioraffinage pourraient potentiellement produire une large gamme de

produits biosourcés pour diverses applications. Des études de cas ont été effectuées dans
le cadre de ce projet sur une sélection de ces produits chimiques et matériaux afin
d’examiner les moteurs et les obstacles à leur développement, les alternatives de
production et les perspectives commerciales44.

Certaines filières de bioraffinage permettent de produire plusieurs types de produits tels

que des produits chimiques, des matériaux et des biocarburants. Les voies A, B & E peuvent
produire de l’éthanol, qui est principalement utilisé en tant que carburant aujourd’hui, bien
qu’une partie du volume produit soit également utilisée pour des produits chimiques (par
exemple comme solvant) ou pour produire de l'éthylène. Les filières D & I produisent du
biométhanol qui est quasiment exclusivement utilisé en tant que carburant aujourd’hui en
UE, bien qu’un large marché existe pour le méthanol fossile dans l’industrie chimique.
Enfin, certaines activités à petite échelle tentent actuellement de développer l’utilisation
d’huiles pyrolytiques pour la fabrication de produits chimiques et de matériaux en plus de
leur utilisation pour la production de biocarburants.

Le scénario de croissance élevée projette qu’une fraction de la production de ces

bioraffineries servent à la fabrication de produits chimiques et matériaux, et le reste en
tant que biocarburant. Cette idée de transférer une partie de la production de biocarburants
à l’industrie chimique présente un large potentiel pour accroitre la part de contenu
biosourcé dans les produits chimiques et les matériaux. Néanmoins, elle nécessitera d’un
soutien politique supplémentaire au sein de l’UE. Il conviendra donc d'en tenir compte dans
l'élaboration et/ou la révision des directives sur les énergies renouvelables (RED II), sur le
développement des carburants d’aviation durable (Sustainable Aviation Directive), de la
mobilité intelligente (Smart Mobility Directive) ainsi que d’autres développements dans

44
Produits dans les études de cas : propylène glycol, 1,4-butanediol, acide lactique, méthanol, esters d'acide gras et
PEG, acide acétique, éthoxylate d'alcool gras, cellulose microfibrillée, amidon thermoplastique et résines phénoliques
à base de lignine.

27
l'UE. Le soutien politique à la production de produits chimiques et de matériaux biosourcés
à travers ces filières pourrait contribuer aux objectifs environnementaux promus par ces
directives, tels que la réduction des émissions de gaz à effet de serre. La tendance de
l'électrification des transports routiers présente également un risque de diminution de la
demande en biocarburants. Ceci pourrait avoir un impact en particulier pour l'éthanol
(commercialisé en tant qu’essence-éthanol E10). Il sera donc possible pour les
bioraffineries spécialisées dans les "biocarburants avancés" de se recentrer partiellement
sur les produits chimiques et les matériaux. En outre, le soutien politique aux produits
chimiques et aux matériaux biosourcés, ainsi qu'aux biocarburants issus de ces filières (en
tant que sous-produit, par opposition aux bioraffineries dont les biocarburants sont le
produit principal), réduirait le risque d'investissement perçu pour ces bioraffineries.

Dans les deux scénarios, l’étude révèle que la demande dans l’UE est supérieure à l’offre
en produits biosourcés à l’horizon 2030. Le déficit de production domestique pourra
potentiellement être comblé par des importations en provenance de pays hors UE, et/ou
par des voies alternatives d’augmentation de la production domestique qui pourraient
émerger (Figure 10).

Ces voies alternatives pourraient inclure des bioraffineries utilisant des cultures agricoles
alimentaires actuellement utilisées pour la production de biocarburants, et qui pourraient
se reconvertir vers les produits chimiques (ex : les usines d’éthanol existantes pourraient
vendre une plus grande quantité à l’industrie chimique). La déshydratation de l’éthanol en
éthylène (une molécule plateforme chimique majeure) pourrait représenter une des voies
principales. Ce procédé est actuellement opéré à échelle commerciale par Braskem au
Brésil et par Croda aux États-Unis.

Le principe de co-traitement (« co-processing ») de biomasse avec des ressources fossiles

est également une option pratiquée à échelle commerciale dans l’UE. Trois approches
existent pour le co-traitement : 1) la production de produits chimiques dans les raffineries
pétrolières ; 2) l’utilisation de vapocraqueurs ; ou 3) par l’utilisation du biométhane dans
les usines de biométhanol existantes.

De fortes incertitudes persistent et pourraient affecter le développement des bioraffineries,

notamment la fiabilité technologique de certaines filières de co-traitement, la disponibilité
de la matière première, la compétition avec la filière biocarburant et la politique
énergétique dans l’UE.

L'étude évalue la capacité de production supplémentaire de produits biosourcés que

pourraient amener les usines d'éthanol à base de cultures destinées à l'alimentation
humaine ou animale et le co-traitement (raffineries de pétrole, vapocraqueurs et usines de
méthanol) dans l'UE. On estime qu'entre 5,4 millions de tonnes de produits chimiques et
de matériaux biosourcés dans le scénario de faible croissance et 11,7 dans le scénario de
forte croissance pourraient être produites dans ces installations d'ici 2030. Si le niveau de
production du scénario de forte croissance est atteint, ces filières alternatives pourraient
contribuer à équilibrer l'offre et la demande de l'UE d'ici 2030.

Actions clés pour accélérer le développement des bioraffineries axées sur les
produits chimiques et les matériaux dans l’UE

Les perspectives de déploiement devraient pouvoir évoluer vers le scénario de croissance

élevée si les actions proposées dans la feuille de route ci-dessous sont mises en œuvre
(Figure 14)45. Les actions proposées cherchent à apporter le maximum de bénéfices pour
l’UE. Celles-ci favoriseront un développement au-delà des filières de bioraffinage
considérées dans cette étude.

45
Module 6 – Perspectives et feuille de route pour le déploiement du bioraffinage dans l'UE (« WP6 - EU biorefinery
outlook and roadmap for deployment») développé par E4tech

28
Lors des différentes séances participatives, les parties prenantes ont identifié les obstacles
économiques les plus importants pour les bioraffineries européennes, notamment le
manque de compétitivité du prix des produits biosourcés, au regard de leurs équivalents
d’origine fossile. Le rôle des politiques publiques et de la réglementation est donc essentiel
pour réduire l’écart entre le prix que les consommateurs sont disposés à payer (willingness
to pay en anglais) et les coûts de production des produits biosourcés. Il convient ainsi de
mettre en œuvre une politique qui soutienne les produits chimiques et les matériaux
alternatifs aux produits fossiles conventionnels, et qui présentent des avantages
environnementaux tels que la réduction des gaz à effet de serre. Il pourrait s'agir de
produits chimiques et de matériaux biosourcés, mais aussi de produits recyclés ou à base
de CO2. La feuille de route contient une liste d'actions politiques diverses, telles que des
objectifs de réduction des GES, des quotas (par exemple dans les marchés publics), des
interdictions/objectifs de réduction de l'utilisation des produits fossiles et non recyclés,
ainsi que l’introduction de taxes sur certains produits fossiles et le carbone. Ces politiques
doivent être élaborées et mises en œuvre sur une période de cinq ans afin d’avoir un impact
sur le déploiement des bioraffineries d'ici 2030.

Dans le contexte du bioraffinage européen, le développement des filières individuelles

identifiées dans cette étude ne peut pas être considéré de manière isolée mais dans le
cadre d’un déploiement collectif de plusieurs filières. Le développement de ces politiques
de soutien permettra d’ajuster le déploiement absolu et relatif de certaines filières par
rapport à d’autres. Bien que les feuilles de route suggèrent les domaines dans lesquels les
mesures politiques devraient être appliquées, celles-ci ne définissent pas d’objectifs précis.
Comprendre l’impact de ces mesures politiques sur le déploiement des filières de
bioraffinerie nécessitera des travaux de modélisation supplémentaire, ainsi que la mise en
œuvre de ces mesures.

L'une de ces mesures consiste à veiller à ce que les bioraffineries soient correctement
classées dans la taxinomie verte (Sustainable Finance Toxanomy) de l'UE46. Cette
taxonomie couvre plusieurs domaines liés aux bioraffineries, notamment l'agriculture et la
sylviculture ainsi que la fabrication de produits chimiques et de plastiques biosourcés.

La taxonomie verte ne reconnait pas l’utilisation de cultures destinées à l'alimentation

humaine ou animale pour la fabrication de produits chimiques de base ou de plastique sous
forme primaire. Ainsi, la taxonomie ne couvrirait que les filières non alimentaires, c’est-à-
dire D à K. En général, le financement des bioraffineries doit être conditionné par la
durabilité, sans pour autant restreindre inutilement le développement des bioraffineries.

Dans les perspectives de déploiement développées dans cette étude (Figure 11), les
conditions dans l’UE sont supposées favorables au développement des ressources
secondaires (non agricoles) pour la production de produits biosourcés. Dans la mesure où
la majorité des projets considérés dans le scénario de haute croissance se concentrent sur
l'utilisation de ressources secondaires, les perspectives de déploiement atteignent presque
les résultats du scénario de haute croissance.

46
European Commission. Sustainable finance – EU classification system for green investments. Draft regulation
and annexes for EU taxonomy for sustainable activities. 2020. Available online at:
https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/12302-Climate-change-mitigation-
and-adaptation-taxonomy#ISC_WORKFLOW

29
 Figure 11. Perspectives de déploiement pour les bioraffineries axées sur la production de produits chimiques et matériaux
d’origine biologiques – nombre additionnel de bioraffineries en 2030.47

Au total, 42 nouvelles bioraffineries produisant des substances chimiques et des matériaux

biosourcés (dont 5 à échelle de démonstration) pourraient devenir opérationnelles d’ici
2030. Ces nouvelles bioraffineries augmenteraient la capacité de production de 3.1 millions
de tonnes, avec une quantité importante venant d’un accroissement des capacités de
production48 des bioraffineries existantes (majoritairement filières A-C) et de nouvelles
constructions provenant des filières D, E & I. Toutes les filières devraient voir apparaître
de nouvelles bioraffineries d'ici 2030. Certaines bioraffineries pourront inclure plusieurs
filières (par exemple D+E) ou se concentrer sur une seule filière.

La capacité des bioraffineries envisagées dans les perspectives de déploiement peut être à
petite, moyenne ou grande échelle, allant de 6 à plus de 220 kta de capacité de production.
L’échelle dépend principalement du procédé de conversion utilisé, du type de ressource et
de la taille/attractivité des marchés pour les produits finaux.

Dans le cas précis de la filière D, les volumes de produits chimiques et de matériaux

biosourcés indiqués dans les perspectives de déploiement n'incluent pas la production de
produits traditionnels, tels que la pâte à papier. En outre l’annonce de nouvelles
bioraffineries actives dans l’industrie papetière sont actuellement axées sur la pâte à papier
et les dérivés plus traditionnels (par exemple, papier et panneaux). Ces produits
traditionnels n'entrent pas dans le cadre de cette étude, mais ces investissements offrent
le potentiel futur de valorisation des flux secondaires pour produire certains des produits
chimiques et les matériaux biosourcés couverts par cette étude. Cela pourrait inclure
l'extraction et la conversion ultérieure de l’huile de tall (tall oïl) brute, de la lignine et de la
térébenthine à partir de la liqueur noire et/ou par le développement de produits innovants
à base de cellulose. Une sélection plus large de bioraffineries centrées sur la production de
pâte à papier est détaillée dans le document de la Confédération européenne des industries
papetières intitulé "Des produits biosourcés innovants pour un futur durable: Une étude du
Cepi sur les bioraffineries de l'industrie de la pâte et du papier en Europe"49.

47
Les filières B, G et K ont été omises car elles ne contribuent pas à l'augmentation générale de production.
48
L’accroissement des capacités de production est le phénomène qui consiste à augmenter la production des usines et
des équipements existants en améliorant les procédés et/ou en réorganisant les équipements.
49
CEPI, Innovative bio-based products for a sustainable future: A Cepi study on pulp & paper industry biorefineries in
Europe (2021) https://www.cepi.org/innovative-bio-based-products-for-a-sustainable-future-a-cepi-study-on-pulp-
paper-industry-biorefineries-in-europe/

30
 Figure 12. Accélération de l'approvisionnement et approvisionnement supplémentaire grâce à l'expansion des bioraffineries.
Deb/Exp (debottlenecking/expansion en anglais) indique l’augmentation de la capacité de production des bioraffineries
existantes

Les filières D, E et I utilisent des ressources forestières lignocellulosiques. De nombreux

développements sont attendus dans les pays nordiques dotés de ressources forestières
abondantes, de chaînes logistiques bien établies et d’une industrie papetière solide.
Historiquement, les investissements dans les bioraffineries des pays de l’initiative BIOEAST
sont resté relativement bas. Néanmoins, ces pays recèlent un important potentiel en
résidus forestiers, en particulier la Pologne, la Roumanie, la République Tchèque et la
Lettonie. La filière E utilise également des résidus agricoles dont le potentiel est important
dans les pays de l’initiative BIOEAST (données obtenues de S2biom) : la Pologne (3e plus
haut potentiel en EU), la Roumanie (5e potentiel), et la Hongrie (6e potentiel) ont toutes
une capacité nationale supérieure à 10 millions de tonnes par an.

La définition et la classification des bioraffineries dans l’UE doit être prise en compte afin
de pouvoir comparer les perspectives de déploiement des bioraffineries dans l'UE établies
dans cette étude et celles provenant d’études précédentes. La stratégie de bioéconomie
de la Commission européenne (Bioeconomy Strategy)50 prévoit le développement de 300
nouvelles bioraffineries durables d'ici 2030. Cet objectif a été mentionné pour la première
fois dans une feuille de route élaborée dans le cadre du projet BIO-TIC en 201551,52. Les
42 bioraffineries estimées dans la présente étude ne doivent cependant pas être comparées
à ces 300 car :

• Cette étude considère seulement les bioraffineries produisant des produits

chimiques des matériaux biosourcés et, dans une certaine mesure, de l'éthanol
avancé. Ainsi, cette étude exclut les bioraffineries produisant principalement des
biocarburants destinés à l'aviation.

50
European Commission. A sustainable bioeconomy for Europe - Strengthening the connection between economy,
society and the environment: updated bioeconomy strategy. 2018. Available online at:
https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/edace3e3-e189-11e8-b690-01aa75ed71a1/language-
en/format-PDF/source-149755478
51
BIO-TIC. A roadmap to a thriving industrial biotechnology sector in Europe. 2015. Available online at:
http://www.industrialbiotech-europe.eu/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/BIO-TIC-roadmap.pdf
52
Le projet BIO-TIC (2012-2015), financé par FP7, est axé sur le secteur de la biotechnologie industrielle en Europe.

31
 • L'analyse BIO-TIC couvre la période 2008 à 2030, alors que cette étude ne
considère que la période 2020 à 2030.

• La feuille de route BIO-TIC a pour but d'estimer le nombre de nouvelles

bioraffineries nécessaires d'ici 2030 pour répondre à la demande estimée. A
l’inverse, cette étude fournit une estimation du nombre de nouvelles bioraffineries
qui peuvent être déployées de manière réaliste d'ici 2030 sur la base de l’offre
actuelle et de scénarios de croissance.

Les capitaux à investir pour assurer un tel déploiement sont de l’ordre de 3.5 à 13.8
milliards d’euros. Un tel investissement dépendra du type d'investissement réalisé
(bioraffineries existantes, converties ou nouvelles) ainsi que de nombreux autres facteurs
(procédé de conversion utilisé, coûts de la main-d'œuvre, coûts des matériaux, etc.).
Certains de ces facteurs (par exemple, la technologie des procédés) sont très liés aux
filières mêmes de bioraffinage, tandis que d'autres seront davantage liés au site de
l'investissement réalisé ainsi qu'au type d'installation (construction d’une nouvelle
installation ou réaffectation d’une installation existante). Lors de la procédure de sélection
d'un nouvel investissement, un ordre particulier (présenté dans la Figure 20)
d'investissement en capital peut être envisagé. Pourtant, toutes les méthodes
d’investissement ne sont pas toujours possibles : la reconversion de bioraffineries mises à
l’arrêt en bioraffinerie chimique et matérielle ou l’augmentation des capacités de
production des bioraffineries existantes pourraient s’avérer impossibles.

Le financement de ces bioraffineries devrait provenir à la fois de sources publiques et

privées. Par exemple, le mécanisme européen pour la reprise et la relance économique
(2020)53 fournit un soutien financier important (672,5 milliards d'euros) sous forme de
prêts et de subventions aux États membres de l'UE. Ce plan pourrait ainsi contribuer à
soutenir les investissements dans l'expansion des bioraffineries, et à la réalisation des
objectifs du pacte vert européen.

• Nouvelle bioraffinerie sur site dédié

HIGHEST
CAPEX
• Nouvelle bioraffinerie sur une friche industrielle (investissements inférieurs
provenant de services partagés tels que la vapeur, l'eau, l'électricité, le
stockage, la logistique, etc.)

• Réutilisation/conversion d'une usine sur une friche industrielle existante

(dépend fortement du projet car seuls certains équipements peuvent être
réutilisés)

• Expansion d'une bioraffinerie sur une friche industrielle (par exemple,

valorisation d'un cours d'eau secondaire) - augmentation de la capacité
souvent limitée

• Amélioration/augmentation des capacité de production (amélioration des

processus, modernisation ou nouveaux équipements) des bioraffineries
existantes - l'augmentation de la capacité est toutefois limitée

• Co-traitement / réorientation des installations existantes des combustibles

LOWEST vers les produits chimiques (en remplacement du méthanol, par exemple)
CAPEX

Figure 13. Types d'investissements requis pour accélérer la production de produits chimiques et de matériaux biosourcés

53
The Recovery and Resilience Facility https://ec.europa.eu/info/business-economy-euro/recovery-
coronavirus/recovery-and-resilience-facility_en#the-recovery-and-resilience-facility

32
Les perspectives de déploiement de bioraffineries pourraient entrainer des avantages
considérables pour l’UE : Cette étude estime la réduction de 3.5 millions de tonnes de gaz
à effet de serre économisées par rapport au alternatives fossiles et environ 5.6 tonnes de
naphta (fraction du pétrole brut) économisées en 2030. Les perspectives de déploiement
présentées dans cette étude ont aussi le potentiel de créer de nouveaux emplois. La
création d'emplois par le développement de chaînes d'approvisionnement complètes -
c’est-à-dire de l'approvisionnement en matières premières à la production, en passant par
le bioraffinage, puis la transformation en aval et finalement l'utilisation finale - pourrait
fortement contribuer à l'objectif de 400 000 « emplois verts » d'ici 2035. Ceci sera surtout
le cas si les matières premières proviennent de l'UE et que la transformation en aval a
également lieu dans la région.

La réalisation de ces perspectives de déploiement de bioraffineries pourraient apporter de

considérables avantages, mais cela ne sera possible que par le biais d’actions menées dès
aujourd’hui et jusqu’en 2030 par toutes les parties prenantes : les décideurs politiques, les
industries des produits biosourcés et leurs associations, les industries des produits
chimiques et des matériaux et leurs associations, le milieu académique, les instituts de
recherche, la communauté d'investissement et les ONG. La feuille de route (Figure 14)
expose les principales actions à entreprendre en les classant par importance et catégorie
(par exemple, économiques). Ces actions sont détaillées dans le module 6 du rapport
« Perspectives et feuille de route pour le déploiement du bioraffinage dans l'UE54», ainsi
que dans les feuilles de route qui identifient des actions spécifiques pour chaque filière de
bioraffinage.

54
Module 6 – Perspectives et feuille de route pour le déploiement du bioraffinage dans l'UE (« WP6 - EU biorefinery
outlook and roadmap for deployment») développé par E4tech

33
 FINAL
Type de parties prenantes
Décideurs politiques
Bio-industrie et associations industrielles PERSPECTIVES DE DÉPLOIEMENT
Industrie chimique/matériaux et associations industrielles
• Mise en place d'une politique de marché
Enseignement supérieur instituts de recherche • Le cadre de durabilité en vigueur
ONG et sociétés civiles Type d’actions • 42 bioraffineries supplémentaires dans
Investisseurs différentes filières
Politique et réglementation
• Potentielles économies de GES de 3,5
Soutien à la R&D et changement d’échelle millions de tonnes de CO2eq

Information et coordination

2020 2025 2030

Fixer des objectifs sectoriels pour

la réduction des GES des produits
chimiques et matériaux de l’UE

Élaborer un mandat européen Mettre en œuvre le mandat européen croissant pour la réduction des GES dans les produits
pour la réduction des GES des chimiques/matériaux vendus dans l’UE
produits chimiques et matériaux
vendus dans l’UE

Élaborer un mandat européen Mettre en œuvre le mandat européen pour une faible teneur en GES pour les produits difficiles
pour une faible teneur en GES à recycler
pour les produits difficiles à
recycler

Mettre en œuvre la vente de divers produits à base de matières premières fossiles non
recyclées et/ou fixer un objectif de réduction des matériaux fossiles utilisés

Les producteurs et utilisateurs de

produits chimiques fixent des
engagements volontaires de
réduction des GES

Élaborer des standards pour les marchés Mettre en œuvre des standards d'approvisionnements publics au sein de l'UE spécifiant
publics dans les états membres sur les les produits biologiques et recyclés ou des produits à base de CO 2
produits biosourcés, recyclés
ou à base de CO2

Taxer les importations de matières premières fossiles dans les industries chimiques et des
matériaux
ÉCONOMIQUES

Réformer le SCEQE pour augmenter le

prix du CO2

Développer un mécanisme Mettre en œuvre le mécanisme d’ajustement carbone aux frontières

d’ajustement carbone aux frontières

Soutenir la recherche d'une utilisation optimale des matières premières de la biomasse

européenne

Mener des activités de R&D pour réduire les coûts dans toutes les filières de
bioraffinage grâce aux programmes continus tels que Horizon Europe, Circular
Biobased Europe et le soutien des États membres

Établir des partenariats pour développer des bioraffineries sur des sites industriels
existants afin de diminuer les coûts de développement

Améliorer la performance économique des procédés en identifiant les liens entre les
différentes filières et les autres industries

Améliorer les bases de données sur les matières premières (biomasse et déchets) pour
identifier les ressources à faible coût

Développer des stratégies

régionales de bioéconomie

Aligner les exigences en matière de

durabilité des produits biosourcés avec les
régimes existants

Envisager l’inclusion de la séquestration

et l'utilisation du carbone dans le SCEQE

Tenir compte de toutes les activités liées à la biomasse et à l'utilisation des terres lors de
ORIENTATION
STRATÉGIQUE

l’établissement des stratégies pour chacune d'entre elles. Par exemple, sur l'économie
circulaire, la bioéconomie et l'alimentation

Fixer des objectifs stratégiques pour l'ensemble du secteur du bioraffinage, inclus

une utilisation acceptable des terres et des cultures

Mettre en œuvre des politiques permettant l’émergence et la montée en puissance de

filières sans culture dédiée/à faible impact sur l'utilisation des terres

34
 FINAL

2020 2025 2030

CHANGEMENT D’ECHELLE DE NOUVELLES

Poursuivre le cofinancement public de l'UE pour les installations pilotes/démonstration

Collecter des données sur les sites pilotes pour faciliter la mise au point d’évaluations techno-
économiques et de modélisation en phases initiales du projet

Réduire les coûts de mise à l'échelle en mettant à disposition/en

fournissant un soutien pour les installations partagées
TECHNOLOGIES

Assurer la classification des projets de

bioraffinage selon la taxonomie verte
de l'UE

Augmenter les capitaux propres dans les entreprises

Appliquer un régime de subventions/prêts pour les études de faisabilité

Apporter un soutien supplémentaire pour les nouvelles technologies, p.ex. des sous-objectifs ou des subventions pour des volumes limités de
produits issus de nouvelles filières
Investir dans le renforcement du savoir-faire en matière d'ingénierie des équipes de recherche
universitaires

Élaborer un standard pour la Instaurer un standard pour la durabilité des produits biosourcés
durabilité des produits
biosourcés

Soutien de l'UE/des États membres aux PME pour qu'elles se conforment aux standards de
durabilité
Fournir un financement de l'UE Adoption d'une politique sur les
pour quantifier le risque lié aux bioplastiques biodégradables
résidus de plastique compostable
non dégradés
DURABILITÉ

Organiser des campagnes

d'information sur les MGM utilisés
dans les bioprocédés

Développer des labels pour

les produits biosourcés

Adoption précoce de produits labellisés sur des marchés très visibles

Établir une terminologie commune

pour les produits biosourcés

Exiger que les projets publics évaluent l'impact sur la durabilité et le communiquent de manière transparente

Soutenir le développement de projets d'hydrogène vert dans les bioraffineries

Soutenir la R&D sur le potentiel des ressources européennes en biomasse

MATIÈRE PREMIÈRE

Fournir un financement pour les évaluations régionales et locales des ressources en biomasse

Soutenir davantage de projets visant à développer des outils/plateformes pour soutenir les
chaînes d'approvisionnement en biomasse

Soutenir la création d'entreprises de distribution de biomasse et de déchets

Inclure les cultures destinées aux bioraffineries dans la politique sur les cultures OGM

Renforcer les objectifs de collecte et de recyclage des déchets

Élaborer une politique pour uniformiser la classification des matériaux en tant que déchets, résidus ou coproduits dans tous les États
membres
ACCÈS AU
MARCHÉ

Instaurer un programme de rapprochement des entreprises au niveau de l'UE

Réduire les frais d'inscription à REACH

pour les produits chimiques durables

Figure 14. Feuilles de routes et actions correspondantes communes à toutes les filières.

35
Introduction

Study context

The circular bioeconomy is key for building a sustainable future and meeting the European
Green Deal's ambitious targets. In light of the EU Bioeconomy Strategy55, the European
Commission DG RTD commissioned three studies to support the research and innovation
policies regarding bio-based resources, products and services.

The overall objective is to provide a range of new information and analysis that will help
identify future policy directions, emerging technologies, societal demands, challenges and
opportunities in the fields of the bioeconomy related to bio-based products and the bio-
based innovation.

The three studies are:

1. Carbon economy (lot 1)

2. Life and biological sciences and technologies as engines for bio-based innovation
(lot 2)

3. Biorefinery pathways and outlook for deployment (lot 3)

This study is Lot 3 Biorefinery pathways and outlook for deployment or shortened
title EU Biorefinery Outlook to 2030. The EU Bioeconomy Strategy noted an action to
seek to facilitate the development of new sustainable biorefineries and confirm the type
and estimated potential. This tender study is specifically related to this action and focuses
on the production of chemicals and materials from biorefineries in the EU.

A focus on biorefining and the production of bio-based chemicals and materials

Definitions of both biorefineries and bio-based products differ between stakeholders and in
the literature. It is important that the definitions used in this project are aligned with other
EC work streams but are also fit for the purpose of this study. The definitions highlighted
below are from the tender documents for this contract and these are supported by
clarifications for each definition.

Biorefining can be broadly defined as the sustainable processing of biomass into a

portfolio of marketable bio-based products, which could include co-production of food and
feed, materials and chemicals and bioenergy (power, heat/cold, fuels)56. The focus of the
current study are chemical and material driven biorefineries which include the
production of innovative high value bio-based products57. Throughout this report bio-
based products refer to bio-based chemicals and materials.

Further to this definition, we define chemical and material driven biorefineries as producing
bio-based chemicals and materials as their main products. This means they produce
primarily bio-based chemicals and/or materials with bioenergy as a side-product. This

55
A sustainable Bioeconomy for Europe: strengthening the connection between economy, society and the
environment, Updated Bioeconomy Strategy European Commission Directorate-General for Research and
Innovation Unit F – Bioeconomy (2018)
https://ec.europa.eu/research/bioeconomy/pdf/ec_bioeconomy_strategy_2018.pdf#view=fit&pagemode=none
56
IEA Bioenergy Task 42 - Biomass can be crops, aquatic biomass, forestry, primary (agro/forest) – secondary
(process) and tertiary (post-consumer) residues, etc. This framework therefore will be very useably for political
decision making for upcoming R&I needed for the implementation of the Green Deal.
57
N° 2018/RTD/F2/OP/PP-07281/2018/ Support to R&I policy on biobased products & services TENDER
SPECIFICATIONS STUDIES ON SUPPORT TO R&I POLICY IN THE AREA OF BIO-BASED PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
(pg 27)

36
means that bioenergy (power, heat/cold, biofuels) focused facilities that produce chemical
co-products are not included.

In this study, bio-based products refer to non-food products derived from biomass. Bio-
based products may range from high-value added fine chemicals such as cosmetics,
pharmaceuticals, food additives, etc., to high volume materials such as general bio-based
polymers or chemical feedstocks (i.e. building blocks).

The sources of carbon and categories of routes to chemicals and materials are shown in
Table 5 Using biorefining as defined above to produce chemicals and materials is one route
to biochemicals and biomaterials. Co-processing of bio-based feedstocks in existing fossil-
based production assets is also an alternative pathway. This study considers co-processing
on a high-level. This study focuses on the routes to bio-based products that are more novel
and therefore does not cover in any depth traditional bio-based products, such as pulp and
paper, and wood products.

The circular bio-based economy is seen as an important element of a future European low
fossil carbon economy, and is expected to increasingly contribute to GHG emissions
reductions over the next decade, as well as increased security of supply of raw materials
by using local resources, additional jobs and business opportunities created in rural areas.

Whilst bio-based products are expected to be an important part of the EU’s transition to a
lower fossil carbon economy, there are other alternative sources and routes that will help
achieve this, namely CO2-based and recycled carbon-based chemicals and materials. Whilst
not being the focus of this tender study the interactions of these with biorefining, and in
some cases future competition between the routes, are considered.

Table 5. Categories of routes to chemical and materials

Virgin fossil carbon Bio carbon CO2-based Recycled carbon

Source/ • Crude oil • Primary: crops, • Combustion emissions • Plastic waste

feedstocks • Natural gas lignocellulosic, – fossil or bioenergy
• Natural Gas Liquids aquatic • Process emissions –
• Coal • Secondary fossil (e.g. ammonia
biomass synthesis) or bio (e.g.
residues fermentation)
• Air

Technology/ • Upstream O&G • Primary • CO2 capture • Mechanical recycling

key value • Downstream O&G producers • Green H2 • Purification
chain steps • Chemical processing • Biorefineries • Downstream • Depolymerisation
• Downstream • Downstream processing • Thermochemical
processing processing • Chemical processing
• Downstream
processing

Interactions • Co-processing of bio • Co-processing • All CO2 sources • Chemical and

or recycled fossil of virgin or downstream
carbon recycled fossil processing
carbon (e.g.
MSW
gasification)
• Green H2

Maturity High Varied Low Varied

Renewable No Yes Depends on carbon Depends on carbon

source source

37
Study aim and objectives

Aim:

To provide an outlook for integrated chemical and material biorefineries enabling

stakeholders such as the scientific community, industry (primary producers and
manufacturers), investors, policymakers, and NGOs to take the present-day decisions
necessary to shape the future sustainable bioeconomy

Objectives:

• Describe, categorise and develop a robust classification system for different types of
biorefineries and the products they could produce considering the needs of a range of
stakeholders, including policy and decision makers in the EU and regional level (WP 1)

• Report on the status of biorefinery development and the markets for related bio-
based products (WP 4 and 5)

• Determine the attractiveness of different bio-based products and their market

potential (demand) based on drivers and benefits of chemical and material
biorefineries, bio-based products and the applications and markets they could access
(WP 2 and 5)

• Identify the technical and market challenges that need to be overcome to

commercialise biorefineries (WP 2 and 3)

• Identify the R&D&I needs of biorefinery pathways and future policies that could
incentivise their uptake (WP 3)

• Develop scenarios for the potential ramp up of biorefinery deployment in Europe

to 2030 taking into consideration technology, market and resource considerations as
well as considering the policy lines of the European Green Deal (WP 5)

• Develop a roadmap for biorefinery deployment in the EU to 2030 segmented by

biorefinery pathways, including the number of biorefineries, installed capacity by
volume and capital investment in new biorefinery construction, type of actions required
by different actors, and impact in terms of sustainability and societal benefit (WP 6
using inputs from WP 1-5)

• Engage relevant stakeholders in activities aimed at meeting above objective

(Stakeholder Engagement)

• Develop communication materials to effectively communicate the outputs of the

study (WP 7)

Comments on the key success factors for the project from DG RTD - the study should:

• Understand how biorefining fits in the context of value chain and cross-value chain
cascading of bio-materials and resource efficiency (WP 1)

• Assess the relevance of projections and recommendations on biorefinery growth from

previous projects in view of the EU policy demands and the foreseeable changes in the
markets of bio-based products (WP 5)

• Provide clarity on the barriers (economic, political, financial, market-based,

environmental) surrounding biorefinery deployment (WP 2 and 3)

• Help communicate the project objectives and findings clearly to multiple stakeholders,
importantly potential investors (e.g. EIB) (WP 7)

38
• Provide input to help form policy approach especially for regions which currently lack a
bioeconomy strategy although produce considerable amounts of various potential
biomass feedstock (all WPs)

• Help inform actions that will increase the number of small, medium and large scale
biorefineries in the EU operating in industrial symbiosis and intensifying transition away
from fossil-based and/or carbon-intensive products to bio-based ones (all WPs)

• Help guide national and regional development of bioeconomy strategies, with focus on
rural areas and the deployment of small-scale biorefineries.

Work package structure and interactions

The work required for this study has been split into seven work packages (WP) as shown
in Figure 15. The lead partner(s) of each work package are indicated (e.g. BTG is leading
the work on drivers and barriers in WP 2).

Figure 15. “EU Biorefinery Outlook to 2030” study overview

39
WP 2-6 are dependent on earlier WPs and these interactions have been summarised in
Table 6
Table 6. Major interactions and dependencies between work packages (WPs)

WP 2 WP 3 WP 4 WP 5 WP 6

WP Classification Classification Classification Classification Classification

1

WP Demand input – general General drivers and

2 drivers and barriers, fact barriers, fact sheets
sheets with specific drivers with specific drivers
and barriers. and barriers.

Input to supply ramp up –

general and specific drivers
and barriers to biorefinery
deployment to inform
scenario development

WP Input to supply ramp up – Technical barriers /

3 pathway definitions, TRL of opportunities (Task
pathways (Task 2), technical 3), RD&I needs (Task
barriers / opportunities (Task 4)
3) and ad-/disadvantages
compared to alternatives
(Task 2)

WP Input to supply ramp up -

4 capacity by operational plant
(demonstration / commercial)
and planned projects
including project status.

WP The supply ramp-up

5 in the high and low
scenarios

Policy Context

EU POLICY AND REGULATION

The following policies and regulations are considered to be very relevant to the
development of biorefineries and the market potential of bio-based chemicals and
materials. These have been defined and discussed in WP 2 and 6.

1. European Green Deal, with the following specific initiatives identified as having high
importance:

a. Climate Law

b. Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)

c. Just Transition Fund

d. Circular Economy Action Plan

e. Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability

f. Hydrogen strategy for a climate-neutral Europe

g. EU strategy to reduce methane emissions

h. Textile strategy

40
 2. Circular Economy Package (CEP)

3. Renewable Energy Directive II (RED II)

4. Waste Framework Directive (WFD)

5. Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH)

6. Common Agricultural Policy (CAP)

7. Council Regulation (EEC) No 2658/87 (Common Customs Tariff - CCT)

8. Genetically Modified Organisms Directive (2001/18/EC GMO)

9. EU Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS)

10. Energy Efficiency Directive (EED) and Energy Performance of Buildings Directive
(EPBD)

11. Land Use and Land Use Change (LULUCF)

12. Sustainable Finance Taxonomy

13. Deforestation and forest degradation

14. Packaging and Packaging waste Directive

HORIZON EUROPE

The Horizon Europe programme including the BBI-JU (Bio-based Industries Joint
Undertaking) programme is important for the development of chemical and material driven
biorefineries. It is expected that the new EC Horizon Europe Programme (2021-2027) will
continue to be important for their deployment including the potential follow-up of the very
successful BBI-JU by means of the new EU Partnership Circular Bio-based Europe (CBE).
These are further discussed in WP 2, 3 and 6.

REGIONAL ASPECTS

Regional aspects play an important role in the broader development of the bioeconomy,
and more specifically in the development of biorefineries. Here, regional aspects can imply
regions as in clusters of member states, national (member state) level, or the sub-national
regional level.

This study gives particular focus to MS in Eastern Europe where some national bioeconomy
strategies are less well developed. Regional aspects are considered throughout the study
with particular focus in WP 2 (drivers and barriers), WP 5 (locations for deployment) and
WP 6 (roadmaps).

Stakeholder engagement

A stakeholder engagement process was developed at the start of the project. Led by FNR
the consortium collected stakeholder contacts and formed a Stakeholder Advisory Group
(SAG), as well as a list of contacts to invite as participants to the workshops.

The purpose of the stakeholder engagement was to gather stakeholder input on the
approach of the study, as well as validate findings from the work. This created buy-in from
key stakeholders and increases the likelihood that the final roadmap is disseminated and
implemented.

41
STAKEHOLDER ADVISORY GROUP (SAG)

The Stakeholder Advisory Group (SAG) was a direct connection of the project to the
different stakeholder groups via 11 members. Multiple meetings were scheduled over the
14 month study .

Individual meetings focused on the results developed with the different WPs. Feedback
from stakeholder was assessed and incorporated into the approach and findings of these
WPs.

The SAG members are58:

• Dirk Carrez | Bio-Based Industry Consortium

• Patrick Klintbom | ETIP Bioenergy

• Constanze Ißbrücker & Christian Schulz | European Bioplastics

• Gianni Girotti | Cefic – The European Chemical Industry Council

• Barna Kovacs | BIOEAST Initiative

• Andrea Monti | EERA – European Energy Research Alliance

• Johan Elvnert | Forest Technology Platform

• Robert M'Barek & Edoardo Baldoni | JRC – Joint Research Centre

• Joško Bobanović | Sofinnova Partners

• Sverker Danielsson | Skogsindustrierna – confirmed to join from September

meeting

• Viktoriya Sturm | Thünen Institute – joined for the last SAG-meeting

STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT FORMATS

Two Stakeholder Workshops were planned to take place during the project. Due to the
Covid19 pandemic, the workshop was held online and each workshop was split into two
webinar events in order to allow shorter online formats. Through experience of similar
events the consortium has found participants tended to be more willing to join and be
attentive with these shorter format events.

To ensure interactivity and to receive input from as many participants as possible, four
“interaction channels” were established.

1. Direct communication in a moderated online discussion

2. Online live-polls during the workshop

3. Online-surveys filled in after the workshop

4. Additional input/feedback by e-mail after the workshop

58
In addition to those SAG members listed above, others were contacted including the World Wide Fund for Nature
(WWF), The European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) and Committee of Professional Agricultural Organisations-
General Confederation of Agricultural Cooperatives (COPA-COGECA) however these stakeholders declined the
invitation to be part of the SAG.

42
WP leaders designed questions suitable for the workshops and decided on the most
appropriate engagement format dependent on the individual WP results. Participation to
the Stakeholder Workshop was good. Adding participants from both parts of the 2
workshops (no double counting), 44 stakeholders participated in the first and 43 in the
second workshop.

Interviews were used as individual approaches to receive deep insights from selected
experts and specific subjects. Interviews have been conducted by WP 2 and 3. Further
information on the approach to these interviews is provided in the WP chapters where
relevant.

A list of the stakeholder comments received during the various engagement formats can
be found in the annex to this final report including information on how feedback was
incorporated or why incorporation was not possible i.e. for technical reasons or because it
was beyond the scope of this study.

Table 7. Stakeholder Engagement Summary

Event Date Number of Description/ comments

participants

1st SAG Meeting 31-03-2020 Total: 15 The 1st SAG meeting was dedicated to discussing the WPs
SAG: 5 1 (Biorefineries classification) and 4 (EU and global
biorefinery deployment).

2nd SAG Meeting 24-06-2020 Total: 20 The 2nd SAG meeting was dedicated to discussing and
SAG: 8 verify outcomes of the Stakeholder Workshop in more
depth.

1st Stakeholder 27-05-2020 Total: 35 The 1st Stakeholder Workshop Part I was dedicated to
Workshop Part I External: 26 discuss the work of WPs 1 (Biorefineries classification)
and 4 (EU and global biorefinery deployment) with a
wider audience.

1st Stakeholder 12-06-2020 Total: 42 The 1st Stakeholder Workshop Part II was dedicated to
Workshop Part External: 30 discuss the work of WPs 2 (Drivers and Barriers) and 3
II (Biorefinery Pathways) with a wider audience.

3rd SAG Meeting 21-09-2020 Total: 14 The 3rd SAG meeting will be dedicated to discussing draft
SAG: 7 results of WPs 5 and 6.

2nd Stakeholder 07-10-2020 Total: 39 The workshop was dedicated to present draft results of
Workshop Part I External: 31 WPs 5 and 6 as well as final results from WPs 1-4.

2nd Stakeholder 28-10-2020 Total: 35 The workshop was dedicated to present the market
Workshop Part External: 22 prospects for biorefineries as well as the potential
II demand/supply of biochemical and –materials under low
and high scenario to 2030.
4th SAG Meeting 12-01-2021 Total: 24 The 4th SAG meeting was dedicated to discuss the EU
SAG: 8 chemical and material driven biorefinery roadmaps to
2030.

43
1 WP1 – BIOREFINERY CLASSIFICATION

The report chapter for WP 1 (Biorefinery Classification) including the completed

classification scheme led by WUR

1.1 Objectives

The objective of this work package is to develop a robust biorefinery classification scheme
for chemical and material biorefineries, based on the analysis of current and emerging
biorefinery models.

The biorefinery classification system aims to support the communication of information in

relation to biorefineries (including its nomenclature) to relevant stakeholders (e.g. RD&I,
policy makers, governmental organization, non-governmental organizations, the general
public, industry, investors) in an understandable way.

1.2 Approach

The following approach was taken to build the biorefinery classification:

• Definition of target audiences and biorefinery characteristics.

• Literature review.

• Consulting of and linking with WP3 and WP4.

• Development of a draft biorefinery classification system.

• Stakeholder consultation.

• Development and definition of biorefinery classification system.

During the development of the biorefinery classification system, several literature sources
were reviewed and partially taken into account when defining the different categories and
subcategories. The base set-up of the classification system is taken from IEA Bioenergy
Task 42. Further specification of and focusing on the chemicals and materials sectors took
place by using the NACE classification (Statistical Classification of Economic Activities in
the European Union), review of the PRODCOM classification (PRODuction COMmunautaire),
as well as other relevant biorefinery classification approaches that are mentioned in the
literature review in this section and Annex I.

1.3 Literature Review

Various descriptions and definitions of biorefining can be found in literature. For this study,
biorefining is defined as the sustainable processing of biomass into a portfolio of
marketable bio-based products, which could include co-production of food and feed,
materials and chemicals and bioenergy (power, heat/cold, fuels).59

Based on the scope of the project (focus on chemicals and material products and the
engagement of a wide variety of stakeholders), a different set of categories and further
subdivision might be required. Different categorizations can be developed looking at the
characteristics of the available and emerging feedstocks, final products or to the
market/sector. As starting point, we have reviewed several classification approaches
developed in nine European projects in the last years (2009-2022), aiming to get a deeper

59
IEA Bioenergy Task 42 - Biomass can be crops, aquatic biomass, forestry, primary (agro/forest) – secondary
(process) and tertiary (post-consumer) residues, etc. This framework therefore will be very usable for political
decision making for upcoming R&I needed for the implementation of the Green Deal.

44
understanding of different biorefinery classification. In this WP the following project reports
were reviewed:

• IEA Bioenergy Task 42 Biorefinery Classification & Bio-Based Chemicals Update (IEA-
2009/2018/2020).

• Towards a common classification approach for biorefinery Systems (IEA-2009).

• BioRefinery identification, classification and mapping (Euroview-2009).

• European Biorefinery Strategy Road Map & Vision 2030 (Star Colibri-2011)

• Bio-economy and sustainability: a potential contribution to the Bio-economy

Observatory. Institute for Environment and Sustainability (JRC-2013)

• Bio-based products and Services. Categories. (InnProBio-2015)

• Bio-based industries in Europe - focus on bio-based materials (Nova Institute-2017)

• Biorefinery Distribution in the EU (JRC-2018).

• Insight into the European market for bio-based chemicals (JRC-2019)

• RoadtoBio: Roadmap for the Chemical Industry in Europe towards a Bioeconomy (Bio-
based Industries Joint-2019)

The literature review was performed during the project provided information to develop a
classification system that allows the understanding of the overall concept of biorefining and
facilitates the study and the comparison of biorefinery systems. Additionally, it uses
product groups that include important products in subcategories that they are easier to be
identified and recognized even for non-technical stakeholders.

The summary of the literature review on biorefinery classification approaches is presented

in Annex I.

1.4 Biorefinery Classification System

The demand for developing a chemical and material focused biorefinery classification arises
from the need better communicate information on biorefineries in the context of the
evolution of the bio-based industries and sustainable climate-neutral circular bio-based
products in the EU. It is important that the classification considers at some extent the
existing EU nomenclatures.

From the literature review, it has been considered that the IEA Bioenergy Task 42 matrix
classification (based on four criteria: platform type, product group, feedstock group, and
conversion process) provides an approach that facilitates the understanding of the
biorefinery concept. This classification system aims to be60:

‒ unambiguous for all stakeholders in the biorefinery field,

‒ explicit with regard to the feedstock, the platform and the final product and
‒ specific enough for categorising each biorefinery

The IEA Bioenergy Task 42 classification system is taken as reference because it provides
a comprehensive overview of the main components of different biorefineries, like possible

60
E. Gnasounou; A. Pandey. Life-Cycle Assessment of Biorefineries. Chapter 1. Classification of Biorefineries Taking
into Account Sustainability Potentials and Flexibility, Elsevier, 2017.

45
feedstocks that can be used, the most important intermediates and products that could
contribute to the partial substitution of fossil or carbon-intensive products and the
reduction of waste generation.

It is important to point out that within the biorefinery industry, secondary biomass
feedstocks (residues), shall not be considered as waste. According to the European Waste
Law61,the definition of waste essentially turns on the notion of ‘discard’. This means that if
a material has potential for further use in the economy (in this case bioeconomy) it should
not be considered a waste.

Definitions as by-product or secondary raw material have no legal meaning in the European
Waste Law, materials are simply waste or not. Taking in account this legal definition all
residues used as feedstocks in biorefineries are not considered waste and therefore in this
project the European Waste Classification is not followed.

Additionally, using the European List of Waste will be very specific and not fit for the
purpose of grouping biorefinery feedstocks but more useful for the study of waste
management. For example, if the European waste classification wanted to be applied for
recycled plastic there are 8 different codes that can be used but non of them will provide
information on the bio-based content, which is needed to be selected as biorefinery
feedstock.

Table 8. European List of Waste Codes

Code Chapter Description

020104 Plastic waste from agriculture, horticulture, aquaculture and fishing, food preparation
and processing (except packing)

0702013 Plastic wastes from the MFSU of plastics, synthetic rubber and man-made fibres

120105 plastics shavings and turnings from shaping and physical and mechanical surface
treatment of plastics,

150102 Plastic packaging

160119 Plastic end-of-life vehicles from different means of transport (including off-road
machinery) and wastes from dismantling of end-of-life vehicles and vehicle maintenance.
170203 Plastic from construction and demolition wastes (including excavated soil from
contaminated sites)

170204 glass, plastic and wood containing or contaminated with hazardous substances

191204 Plastic wastes from the mechanical treatment of waste (for example sorting, crushing,
compacting, pelletising) not otherwise specified

On the other hand, PRODCOM codes are specific to single products or product groups. It
seems that PRODCOM codes are given only to product that are considered relevant and
have large production volumes otherwise the product is grouped into a product category
group, like in the case of lactic acid which is an important bio-based chemical to produce
biopolymers. For some bio-based chemicals this can be a drawback as they are currently
not produced in large quantities.

PRODCOM classification list, includes an important number of products and product groups
(chemicals and materials) that can be easily identified as bio-based (fatty acids, sorbitol,
glycerine, natural fibres) and although new codes has been recently added (2016) to be
more specific on the renewable content of the product (e.g. lubricants with bio-based
content, bio-based butanediol, and bio-based succinic acid); the introduction of new codes
for important chemicals and materials (e.g. lactic acid, itaconic acid ethylene from bio-
based origin, ethyl acetate from bio-based origin, epichlorohydrin from bio-based origin,

61
Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament on the Interpretative
Communication on waste and by-products.
https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52007DC0059

46
bio-based resins) is still missing. Currently, for a high number of chemicals there is no
clear distinction if they are fully or partially bio-based or fossil based.

In this project, the IEA Bioenergy Task 42 classification system is further modified
according to recent developments identified in the literature review and according to
insights provided by the Stakeholder Advisory Group (SAG), a wider stakeholder group
during a workshop consultation, and the consortium members.

The classification system proposed is focused on biorefineries producing chemicals and

materials either as a major output or as side-products. The proposed product groups are
linked to a broad spectrum of bio-based products like the ones proposed in the Bioeconomy
strategy, and the NACE nomenclatures.

From the NACE classification the following product group were taken as reference:
Agrochemicals and Pesticides, Paints and coatings, Fertilizers, Pharmaceuticals fibre,
Paints, inks, dye and pigments (colorants), Soap, detergents and cleaning preparations
(surfactants), Pharmaceutical products, Textile fibres (fibres), Plastics in primary forms
(polymers).

From the European new Circular Economy Action Plan 202062 similar product categories
are considered: Plastics (included in polymers), Chemicals (are linked to applications as
solvent, additives, building blocks, surfactants), Textiles (fibres); Construction materials
(covered in this work by fibres, composites, resins).

Table 1 shows the proposed new biorefinery classification system to be used in this project.
It is important to mention that the sub-group ‘other’ in each category is included to enable
new feedstock concepts, technologies or product categories to be included in the future.
Information for each category is provided below:

FEEDSTOCK

The feedstock category provides an indication on the type and/or the source of biomass
that is processed in the biorefinery. The IEA Bioenergy Task 42 classification for feedstock
is further modified to primary and secondary biomass feedstocks. A more detailed
description and the definition of each type of feedstock for the new classification system is
provided in Annex II.

One important modification is that the new subcategorization differentiates lignocellulosic

biomass generated from woodlands (forestry) and from the one originated from croplands
and grasslands. This is relevant information linked to concepts such as land use, land use
change and forestry (LULUCF) as well as effective management of protected areas which
contribute to the fight against climate change and increasing biodiversity, key pillars for
the European Biodiversity Strategy 2030 and the European Green Deal.63,64

Additionally, the proposed classification emphasizes the importance of using secondary

biomass by including more specific residue feedstocks. These streams are produced during
the processing, conversion or decomposition of primary biomass, are relevant to Circular
Economy Action Plan to support of waste prevention and circularity as well as the
prioritisation of the funding of the implementation of the Bioeconomy strategy.

62
The new Circular Economy Action Plan 2020. Brussels, 11.3.2020 COM. 2020.
63
Factsheet: EU Biodiversity strategy 2030. 20 May 2020
64
Communication from the Commission. The European Green Deal COM/2019/640 final

47
New possible feedstock such aquaculture and microbial biomass are also included. The
modification is done partially in accordance with the 2018 JRC study on building a database
of biorefineries and several European projects (Biomass Futures65 and BioSustain66 ).

It is important to highlight that the proposed classification system does not consider within
the scope the use of fossil-based carbon dioxide or fossil based recycled materials and
products as feedstock. However, it does include recycled bio-feedstocks such as paper,
bio-textiles, bio-CO2, bio-plastics, bio-ethanol. This is aligned to the definition of
biorefineries in the introduction (i.e. bio-based feedstocks are considered whilst fossil
feedstocks are not considered, recycled or not).

1 Primary biomass is a biomass originated via artificial or natural photosynthesis,

capable to capture and store carbon during the growing period.67 This type of biomass may
be produced for dedicated use or purpose and it is obtained from forest, agricultural land,
aquatic systems or specialised bioreactors.

For the grouping of renewable feedstocks (specially crops), it is common to associate the
biomass crop to the type of carbohydrate that is in higher concentration in the feedstock.
The most important carbohydrate groups in crops are: oil, starch, sugars and
lignocellulose.

• Aquatic biomass (aquatic plants, microalgae and aquaculture)

• Lignocellulosic from cropland (e.g. short rotation coppice and other crops) and
grassland (e.g. Miscanthus, perennial grasses (e.g. alfalfa), reed)

• Lignocellulosic wood/forestry from woodland (round wood, sawn logs, fuelwood,

softwood, hardwood).

• Oil crops (e.g. soya beans, coconut, olive tree, palm oil, castor beans, sunflower seed,
rapeseed, sesame seed, tallow tree)

• Starch crops (grains, such as corn or wheat, and tubers such as (sweet) potatoes and
cassava)

• Sugar crops (sugar cane, sugar beet and sweet sorghum)

• Other primary biomass

2 Secondary biomass: biomass produced during the processing, conversion or

decomposition of primary biomass and organic material. This is a side-products and
residues category, which include biomass that has already been part of current industrial
ecosystems, production and consumption chains.

• Microbial biomass (biomass generated by e.g. enzymes, bacteria, protist, fungi)

• Residues from forest management and the forest-based industry (e.g. logging residues,
sawdust, bark, brown and black liquor, fibre sludge, lignin and tall oil)

• Residues from agriculture (only from crop cultivation e.g. residues from harvesting e.g.
straw, leaves, sugarcane residues on field, vineyard prunings, olive tree prunings,
bagasse, rice husks, empty fruit bunch, mesocarp fibre, sugar beet pulp, soy hulls,

65
Elbersen B, Startisky I, Bottcher H,. Atals of EU biomass potentials Deliverable 3.3.February 2020
https://ec.europa.eu/energy/intelligent/projects/sites/ieeprojects/files/projects/documents/biomass_futures_atlaso
f_technical_and_economic_biomass_potential_en.pdf
66
https://ec.europa.eu/energy/sites/ener/files/documents/biosustain_report_final.pdf
67
https://www.marquard-bahls.com/en/news-info/glossary/detail/term/biomass.html

48
 distiller`s dried grains with solubles (DDGS), potato peels, vegetable residues, nut
shells)

• Residues from aquatic biomass cultivation, processing and consumption, (e.g. fisheries
and aquaculture).

• Residues from nature and landscape management (green biomass from nature and
landscape management)

• Residues from recycled bio-based products (e.g. recycled bio-plastics and bio-
polymers, bio-based textiles, recycle paper)

• Other organic residues (e.g. organic fraction municipal solid waste (MSW), sewage and
wastewater sludge, used cooking oil, animal fat, manure).

Table 9. Classification System

1. Feedstock 2. Conversion Process 3. Platform 4. Product

1.1. Primary biomass: 2.1. Biochemical: • Biochar 4.1. Chemicals:

• Aquatic biomass • Aerobic conversion • Bio-Coal • Additives
• Lignocellulosic from • Anaerobic digestion • Bio-Crude • Agrochemicals
croplands and • Enzymatic process • Biogas • Building blocks68
grasslands • Fermentation • Bio-oils • Catalysts & Enzymes
• Lignocellulosic • Insect-based bioconversion • Bio-hydrogen • Colorants
wood/forestry • Other biochemical conversion • Bio-Naphtha • Cosmeceuticals
• Oil crops • C5/C6 sugars • Flavours & Fragrances
• Starch crops 2.2. Chemical: • Carbon dioxide • Lubricants
• Sugar crops • Catalytic • Lignin • Nutraceuticals
• *Other primary • Esterification • Oils • Paints & Coatings
biomass • Hydrogenation • Organic Fibres • Pharmaceuticals
• Hydrolysis • Organic Juice • Solvents
1.1. Secondary • Methanation • Protein • Surfactants
Biomass: • Chemical Pulping • Pyrolytic Liquid • *Other chemical
• Microbial biomass • Steam reforming • Starch product
• Residues from • Water electrolysis • Syngas
agriculture • Water gas shift • *Other platform 4.2. Materials:
• Residues from • *Other chemical conversion • Composites
aquatic biomass • **Fibres
• Residues from 2.3. Mechanical and • Organic Fertilizers
forestry and forest- thermomechanical: • Polymers
based industry • Blending • Resins
• Residues from • Extraction • *Other material
nature and • Mechanical & product
landscape thermomechanical disruption &
management fractionation 4.3. Food
• Residues from • Mechanical pulping
recycled bio-based • Separation processes 4.4. Animal Feed
products • Other mechanical and
• *Other organic thermomechanical conversion 4.5. Energy:
residues • Cooling agents
2.4. Thermochemical: • Fuels
• Combustion • Heat
• Gasification • Power
• Hydrothermal liquefaction • *Other energy product
• Pyrolysis
• Supercritical conversion
• Torrefaction & Carbonization
• *Other thermochemical
conversion

* ‘Other’ is included to enable new concepts, technologies or product categories to be included.

**’Fibres’ group can be extended to subgroups according to the application: textile fibres, paper and board fibres,
carbon/specialty fibres and other fibres.

68
A building block is defined as a molecule which can be converted to various secondary chemicals and intermediates
and turn into a broad range of different downstream products.

49
CONVERSION PROCESS

The conversion process criterion provides information about the current and emerging
technologies used to transform feedstock (biomass) and/or intermediates product streams
into final products. In biorefinery systems, several technological processes can be applied
to convert biomass feedstock into marketable products. The IEA Bioenergy Task 42
classification for the conversion process is used, with four main subcategories of processes:
Mechanical, Chemical, Thermochemical and Biochemical.

A more detailed description and the definition of the different conversion processes for the
new classification system is provided in Annex II.

Changes are implemented in some sub-groups. In the biochemical processes, the

conversion of biomass using insects is included (this practice is also known as insect
farming). This type of conversion process is mainly used to convert organic residues and
waste to intermediates like protein and oil.

In the Mechanical processes, the sub-groups pressing-disruption & mechanical

fractionation are merged due to the similarity of the technologies and overlapping of some
of the processes and a new sub-group named “Mechanical and thermomechanical
disruption and fraction”. Additionally, the blending process is included, because it is a
relevant process often used in the conditioning of feedstock or process streams to reach
certain specifications.

In the chemical processes the terms “Hydrothermal Liquefaction” instead of “Hydrothermal

Upgrading” and “Supercritical Conversion” instead of “Supercritical Conditions” are used.
Additionally, the sub-group “Torrefaction and carbonization processes” is included in the
category thermochemical conversion in line with the STAR Colibri project.

1 Biochemical Conversion Processes:

• Aerobic conversion

• Anaerobic digestion (also known as methanization)

• Enzymatic Process

• Fermentation

• Insects-based bioconversion

• Other biochemical conversion

2 Chemical Conversion Processes:

• Catalytic

• Esterification

• Hydrogenation

• Hydrolysis

• Methanation

• Chemical Pulping

• Steam reforming

• Water electrolysis

50
• Water gas shift

• Other chemical conversion

3 Mechanical and Thermomechanical Conversion Processes:

• Blending

• Extraction

• Mechanical & thermomechanical disruption &fractionation

• Mechanical pulping

• Separation (e.g. filtration, distillation, absorption)

• Other mechanical and thermomechanical conversion

4 Thermochemical Conversion Processes:

• Combustion

• Gasification

• Hydrothermal liquefaction

• Pyrolysis

• Supercritical conversion

• Torrefaction & Carbonization

• Other thermochemical conversion

PLATFORM

Platforms are intermediate products that are generated from a variety of biomass
feedstocks and can be further processed via the previously mentioned conversion process
to obtain a broad range of final products. The platforms also provide information about the
potential of integration of different facilities into more complex biorefineries.

The IEA Bioenergy Task 42 classification for the platforms is used and new platforms like,
organic fibres, naphtha, protein, starch and carbon dioxide are added as they lead to
several materials and chemical product outputs. In total, 16 platforms are proposed. A
more detailed description and the definition of the different platforms for the new
classification system is provided in Annex II.

• Biochar (very stable solid material also known as black carbon)69

• Bio-coal (solid material with a higher energy content compared to the original biomass
feedstock produced via torrefaction)70

69
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/SS/SS58500.pdf
70
http://www.etipbioenergy.eu/value-chains/products-end-use/intermediates/torrefied-pellets

51
• Bio-crude (complex mixture of oxygenated organic compounds)

• Biogas (anaerobic digestion gas composed mainly of CH4 and CO2 and lower levels of
impurities such as H2S)

• Bio-hydrogen (hydrogen produced from biomass in photoreactors or fermenters,

mostly catalysed by enzymes. Biogenic hydrogen and carbon dioxide can be used to
produce hydrocarbons or other chemicals.)

• Bio-naphtha (C5- C10 hydrocarbon compounds, without residual oxygenates)

• Bio-oils (vegetable oil, microalgae oil, tall oil, fatty, grease, used oil)

• C5/C6 sugars (C5-xylose, arabinose and C6-glucose, fructose, galactose)

• Carbon dioxide (biogenic CO2 conversion into intermediates)

• Lignin (intermediates from the processing of lignocellulosic biomass e.g.

phenylpropane)71

• Organic fibres (press cake fibres, sugarcane bagasse, cellulose fibres)

• Organic juice (liquid mixture of valuable compounds: carbohydrates, proteins, free

amino acids, organic acids, minerals, hormones and enzymes)72

• Protein (plant-based proteins and amino acids)

• Pyrolytic liquid (complex mixtures containing water, guaiacols, catechols, syringols,

vanillin, isoeugenol, pyrenes, diverse carboxylic acids that can involve several hundreds
of compounds)73

• Starch (modified and regular starch)

• Syngas (a mixture of mainly carbon monoxide and hydrogen, as well as methane,

carbon dioxide and nitrogen)

• Other platform

PRODUCT

The term product refers to the products at the outlet of the biorefinery, and as such
depends on the boundary of the biorefinery system74. In this proposal, the IEA Bioenergy
Task 42 classification is modified, and the product criteria are re-arranged in five
categories:

1. Chemicals

2. Materials

3. Food

71
F. Cherubini / Energy Conversion and Management 51,1412–1421, 2010
72
https://biorrefineria.blogspot.com/p/plataformas-de-biorrefineria.html
73
Gnansounou E., Pandey A., Life cycle assessment of biorefineries. Elsevier,2016
74
Sadhukhan J, Siew K, Martinez-Hernandez E, Biorefineries and Chemical Processes: Design Integration and
Sustainability,2014.

52
 4. Animal Feed

5. Energy

The definitions of all chemical, materials, energy, food and animal feed sub-categories are
discussed and explained in more detail in Annex II.

The main changes are proposed in the chemicals and material categories and are explained
in the following sub-sections. Additionally, some examples per sub-category are included
but the range of possible bio-based products per sub-category is broader and will be
presented in the database developed in WP 4.

1 Chemicals

For the Chemicals category, the IEA Bioenergy Task 42 sub-classification based on the
number of carbons in the chemical compound was considered highly specific, especially for
stakeholders without technical background. Therefore, a more general sub-classification
for a broader audience and based on different application markets of the chemical products
is proposed. This is done in alignment to what is proposed in the ‘RoadtoBio Roadmap’ and
the ‘Insight to the European market for bio-based chemicals’ report75,76.

• Additives (e.g. bio-based derived plasticizers, stabilizers, thickeners, fillers, inhibitors,

flame retardants) some specific examples of chemical compounds with application as
additives are: CMC (carboxymethylcellulose) and lignin.

• Agrochemicals: plant hormones (e.g. jasmonic acid, abscisic acid), naturally occurring
steroid plant, bio-fungicides from plant extracts.

• Building blocks: starting materials used to mainly to manufacture other chemical

compounds (e.g. ethylene, propylene, lactic acid, BTX (benzene, toluene, xylene)).

• Catalysts & Enzymes (e.g. catalyst produced from cellulosic agricultural waste and
activated carbon, as well as enzymes produced from fungi or plants (e.g. amylase,
papain, bromelin, ficin, malt diastase)77

• Colorants (including dyes, pigments and inks)78,79

• Cosmeceuticals: e.g. vitamins, antioxidants, botanical extracts, flavonoids, hyaluronic

acid and other bioactive substance added to products that are intended to be applied
to the human body with the purpose of cleaning, perfuming, protecting and keeping it
in good condition.80

• Flavours & Fragrances (e.g. vanillin, geraniol, cinnamic acid, geranyl acetate, linalool)

• Lubricants (e.g. triglyceride esters derived from vegetable oils obtained from plants)

• Nutraceuticals: e.g. amino acids, vitamins, proteins, antioxidants, derived from food
sources and used as additives for food and feed (e.g. hydroxytyrosol, lecithin).

75
https://www.roadtobio.eu/uploads/publications/roadmap/RoadToBio_action_plan.pdf
76
Spekreijse, J., Lammens, T., Parisi, C., Ronzon, T., Vis, M., Insights into the European market of bio-based
chemicals. Analysis based on ten key product categories, EUR 29581 EN, Publications Office of the European Union,
Luxembourg, 2019.
77
B. Volesky, John H. T. Luong & Knud Aunstrup. Microbial Enzymes: Production, Purification, and Isolation, Critical
Reviews in Biotechnology, 2:2, 119-146, 1984. DOI: 10.3109/07388558409082583
78
https://www.foodcolor.com/natural-pigments
79
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/281113520_Extraction_of_natural_dye_Pomegranate_rind_and_its_fastne
ss_properties
80
Guidance document on the demarcation between the cosmetic products directive 76/768 and the medicinal products
directive 2001/83 as greed between the commission services and the competent authorities of member states.

53
• Paints & Coatings (paint and coating containing a vegetable fraction coming from bio-
based materials such as vegetable oils, natural pigments or bio-based resins)

• Pharmaceuticals: Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API’s): e.g. insuline, N-acetyl

glucosamine, L-lysine, artemisinic acid, caffeic acid, gallic acid, oleuropein, revastrol.

• Solvents: are chemicals that are used to dissolve other chemical substances e.g.
methanol, ethanol, toluene, acetone, turpentine, ethyl acetate.

• Surfactants (mostly produced from vegetable oils, some examples: e.g. glycolipids,
sopherolipids, esterquats and some starch derivates like carboxy methyl starch and
sugar derivates like alkyl polyglucoside)81

• Other chemical product

Some chemicals can be categories under two or more of the categories above as they are
used in multiple sectors. For example, methanol is a building block and is used to produce
many downstream chemicals and materials (e.g. it is used to produce formaldehyde which
is in turn used in the production of formaldehyde containing resins), but it also can be used
as a solvent. Methanol could therefore be categories under either building blocks or
solvents, depending on its use.

2 Materials

The materials category was re-arranged to clearly separate the chemical, energy and food
& feed products from materials. Only two sub-categories from the IEA Bioenergy Task 42
classification remain in the materials section (polymers and resins) and other products like
food, animal feed, fertilizers, chemicals, building blocks, bio-hydrogen and glycerine were
re-assigned and into new product categories and in the case of bio-hydrogen it can be re-
assigned as platform or product.

In the new classification system, the following five sub-categories are proposed in order to
cover a broader range of applications of materials:

• Composites (natural composites: e.g. wood, mud bricks (mud+straw), bones and bio-
based derived composites: contain synthetic fibres or synthetic polymers e.g. PLA/flax
composites, paper, concrete).

• Fibres (natural fibres: e.g. wool, jute, hemp, sisal, abaca, silk and bio-based derived
fibres: e.g. polycaprolactam (polyamide 6, Nylon 6), Poly(hexamethylene adipamide)
(polyamide 66, Nylon 66), polyamid-11 (Nylon 11))

• Organic fertilizers (e.g. humic acid, guano, sewage sludge, compost, digest)

• Polymers (natural polymers: e.g. starch, natural rubber, cellulose, CMC carboxymethyl
cellulose), lignin, chitin, pectin and bio-based derived polymers: e.g. polyethylene (PE),
polyethylene terephthalate (PET), Polyethylene 2,5-furandicarboxylate (PEF),
Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), polylactic acid (PLA))

• Resins (natural resins: e.g. rosin, shellac, copal, respin and bio-based derived resins:
polyurethane resins, epoxy resins, alkyd resins)

• Other material products

81
Spekreijse, J., Lammens, T., Parisi, C., Ronzon, T., Vis, M., Insights into the European market of bio-based
chemicals. Analysis based on ten key product categories, EUR 29581 EN, Publications Office of the European Union,
Luxembourg, 2019.

54
In the case of the fibres group, the Forest-based Sector Technology Platform (FTP)
provided the advice to further finetune the ‘fibres’ group to subcategories that will be more
understandable to their markets and stakeholders according to the application, such as:
textile fibres, paper and board fibres, composite fibres and carbon/speciality fibres.

3 Energy

The energy category includes secondary energy carriers (transportation biofuels, power
and heat). In this classification this category was slightly modified to differentiate the
functionality of the energy product.

• Cooling agents (e.g. natural refrigerants like carbon dioxide and ammonia used in heat
adsorption systems and refrigeration systems)

• Fuels (e.g. biodiesel, bioethanol, biomethane, biomethane, ethers, hydrogen)

• Heat (e.g. warming and heating services)

• Power (e.g. electricity production)

For the food and feed categories the main change is that they were moved out from the
material category according to IEA Bioenergy Task 42 and were added as two separate
categories. No further sub-classification is proposed because these products are not the
main focus of this project.

1.5 Application of the Biorefinery Classification System

The following example shows the application of the biorefinery classification and was taken
from the biorefinery database that is being developed in WP 4.

Biowert (Germany)

The core of the business of Biowert is the production of high-quality cellulosic fibres
from grass (lignocellulosic from cropland and grassland). The fibre processing unit
is a combination of mechanical and biochemical processes. The integration of the
biochemical process (anaerobic fermentation) uses the organic juices to produce biogas
which via a thermochemical conversion (combustion) delivers electricity and heat that is
internally consume for the processing of the fibres.

• This biorefinery is integrated by 3 different platforms (organic fibres, organic juice and
biogas) to produce three different materials (cellulosic fibres, organic fertilizer and
composites). In the production of composites an additional polymeric raw material is
required. The polymeric matrix of the composite can be fossil based, bio-based or a
recycled polymer.82

82
Spekreijse, J., Lammens, T., Parisi, C., Ronzon, T., Vis, M., Insights into the European market of bio-based
chemicals. Analysis based on ten key product categories, EUR 29581 EN, Publications Office of the European Union,
Luxembourg, 2019.

55
 Figure 16. Example of biorefinery classification use. Refinery Biowert (Germany)

1.6 Additional information relevant to Stakeholders

The proposed classification system is developed to provide a simple and straightforward

way to describe current and future biorefineries and to allow their comparison taking into
account the current available information in databases.

The classification system forms the basis of clearly naming of specific biorefinery plants.
Taking the example of the Biowert Refinery in Germany, the description of the biorefinery
using the proposed classification system would be:

An integrated biorefinery using food residues and grass silage to produce

cellulosic fibres, organic fertilizers, composites, electricity & heat (through the
biogas, organic juice and fibre platforms)

This naming could be made even more specific, replacing the general terms organic
fertilizer, cellulosic fibres, composites and food residues to more specific ones if that
information is available.

56
On top of the 4 characteristics being part of the classification system, there are more
biorefinery based data that are important for the analysis and assessment activities within
this project, such as:

‒ Feedstock origin and supply

‒ Technology Readiness Level (TRL)
‒ Size of installation
‒ Integrated plant (the plant is or not integrated to an existing plant)
‒ Biorefinery location (territorial dimension based on GPS coordinates)

These biorefinery specific data will be collected in WP 3 and WP 4 and will (together with
the classification system data) be integrated in the biorefineries database (WP 4).

The additional information is not easy to obtain and in many cases the completion rate in
the database is very low, nevertheless it can be useful for future assessments on the impact
of biorefineries at different levels (economic, social, environmental).

57
2 WP 2 – DRIVERS AND BARRIERS FOR BIOREFINERIES

2.1 Introduction

The objective of WP 2 and the followed approach are detailed below.

Objective

The specific objective of work package 2 (WP 2) is to provide a comprehensive and

structured analysis of the barriers and drivers that pertain to biorefineries as classified in
WP 1.

The focus in WP2 is on the non-technical drivers and barriers to biorefinery development
whilst WP3 focuses on the technical drivers and barriers. The results of WP 2 and WP 3 will
feed into WP 5 which will assess the market prospects for biorefineries and develop an
outlook for biorefinery deployment in the EU to 2030.

Approach

In this report we make a distinction between general drivers/barriers and specific

drivers/barriers, where:

• General drivers/barriers are relevant for all/nearly all biorefineries.

• Specific drivers/barriers are relevant for one or only a few product groups (as defined
in the classification in WP 1) or biorefinery pathways (as defined in WP 3).

For general as well as specific drivers/barriers, individual drivers/barriers will be

determined first and then grouped into wider driver/barrier categories later. The work has
been subdivided in the following activities:

Activity A: Development of the barrier and driver categorisation

Since chemical and material based biorefineries encompass many feedstocks, processes,
platforms, and products (chemicals and materials), structuring barriers and drivers
becomes very important. To this end a categorisation system is developed, based on
several literature sources.

Activity B: Specific Barriers and Drivers

Specific barriers and drivers were determined for a limited set of product groups. These
product groups were defined based on the Biorefineries Classification developed in WP 1,
and in cooperation with Work packages 5 (Market Prospects for biorefineries to 2030) and
6 (EU Biorefinery Outlook and Roadmap for Deployment). Fact sheets for these product
groups were developed, using the same categorisation defined in Activity A, and validated
via interviews with companies that produce these types of products.

Activity C: General Barriers and Drivers

Based on the developed categorisation, general barriers and drivers were derived from
several literature sources, interviews and meetings with stakeholders and from specific
drivers and barrier factsheets These barriers and drivers were synthesised (combined) to
capture them in a limited number of barriers and drivers, further refined and listed in a
table format. Following that, a prioritisation was made by means of a Stakeholder meeting,
several interviews with experts, and literature.

2.2 Activity A) Development of the barrier and driver categorisation

To derive a suitable categorisation system for general and specific drivers and barriers a
practical approach was identified and adopted, which includes the following:

58
 1. Develop an initial categorisation system for general barriers and drivers

2. Identify and collect relevant literature on general drivers and barriers

3. Extract and categorise general barriers and drivers

4. Refine the categorisation system and derive umbrella terms for barriers and drivers

DEVELOP INITIAL CATEGORISATION SYSTEM FOR GENERAL BARRIERS AND DRIVERS

As key starting point for the initial categorisation of drivers and barriers we built on recent
EU-supported work that two consortium partners of the current assignment (BTG and/or
E4tech) contributed to. This concerns on the one hand the Roadmap for the Chemical
Industry in Europe towards a Bioeconomy, developed in the frame of the Horizon 2020
(BBI JU) RoadToBio project (GA No. 745623, www.roadtobio.eu) and on the other hand
the report Insights into the European market for bio-based chemicals, a study
commissioned by JRC83.

The RoadToBio project developed a roadmap for the chemical industry to show a way on
how to increase the share of bio-based or renewable feedstock (to 25% of total volume of
organic chemicals/raw materials/feedstock used by the chemical industry in 2030). In the
roadmap84 a full chapter is dedicated to describing general barriers. In total 16 barriers are
discussed, grouped into six categories: 1. Access to feedstock, 2. Competition with fossil
fuels, 3. Policy and regulation, 4. Public perception and society, 5, Markets, finance and
investment, 6. Research and Development.

The “Insights” study presents the outcome of research conducted jointly by BTG and the
EC’s Joint Research Centre (in Sevilla, Spain). For the “Insights” study the authors built on
a categorisation adopted from work lead by85, which had grouped drivers and barriers into
four categories: 1. Innovation & technological readiness, 2. Economic and market potential,
3. Social and environmental impact, 4. Legal and regulatory factors.

IDENTIFY AND COLLECT RELEVANT LITERATURE ON GENERAL DRIVERS AND BARRIERS

In a desk study, documents discussing general drivers and barriers for the bioeconomy
were identified and collected. Documents published or issued in recent years were
prioritised. A mixture of sources was considered, including:

• Policy documents and the actions from the EC or from associated bodies or partners,
such as the BIC SIRA 2030 , the BIC Vision document86, the JRC ‘Insights’ study1, the
recent JRC report on the bioeconomy size87, and the Lot 3 Tender documents (2019)

• Deliverables for EC-supported projects, in particular Coordination and Support Actions

(CSA) and CSA-like projects, such as BIOEAST (2020), BLOOM (Oct 2019), RoadToBio
(April 2019), and Star-ProBio (2017)

• Conference presentations and papers such as from Chafiâ88

83
Spekreijse J, Lammens T, Parisi C, Ronzon T, Vis M. Insights into the European market for bio-based chemicals
Analysis based on 10 key product categories. Published online 2019. doi:10.2760/549564
84
www.roadtobio.eu/uploads/publications/roadmap/RoadToBio_strategy_document.pdf
85
Mohannak K, Samtani L. A Criteria-based Approach for Evaluating Innovation Commercialisation A Criteria-based
Approach for Evaluating Innovation Commercialisation. DRUID Soc Conf 2014. Published online 2014
86
Bio based industries consortium. The Strategic Innovation and Research Agenda (SIRA 2030) for a Circular Bio-
based Europe. 2020;(March). https://biconsortium.eu/news/SIRA2030-consultation
87
JRC. How Big Is the Bioeconomy? Reflections from an Economic Perspective.; 2020. doi:10.2760/144526
88
Chafiâ D. Biomass and Waste to Value Products. G.I. Dynamics BV; 2020

59
• Scientific (peer-reviewed) papers such as Hassan et al.89 and Brunnhofer et al.90

The literature suggested by EC staff at the inception meeting (such as the EC Guidance for
Impact Assessment and the EC Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) for regional bioeconomy
projects) was also examined.

EXTRACT AND CATEGORISE GENERAL BARRIERS AND DRIVERS

Some tens of the earlier mentioned documents that discuss general drivers and barriers
for the bioeconomy were assessed. From the documents a wide range of general barriers
and/or drivers were extracted.

Using the initial two categorisations, we started filling a table with the extracted general
drivers. Both due to the sheer number and variety of general drivers it appeared not
possible to fit all of them in either of the initial categorisations. It became clear that the
initial categorisation system would have to be refined.

REFINE THE CATEGORISATION SYSTEM AND DERIVE UMBRELLA TERMS FOR BARRIERS
AND DRIVERS

For two distinct, but interacting, reasons it appeared useful to define a revised
categorisation system, combining and adding on the two initial categorisations.

To reflect the different perspectives of various groups of stakeholders (e.g. private

companies vs. policy makers) a distinction was made between micro-economic (company-
level) and macro-economic (society-level) drivers. A similar distinction can be made
regarding societal matters, to reflect the different viewpoints from the individual
stakeholders and the full society.

To streamline the outcome of the above exercise and to reduce the large number of
different terms used to describe individual general drivers and barriers, an effort was made
to synthesise (combine) them, and to capture them in a limited number of overarching (
“umbrella”) terms and themes.

To ensure that for both drivers and barriers the same categorisation is applied a final
streamlining step was implemented, yielding the following categories that can be
applied for general drivers and barriers alike:

• Business drivers vs. Business barriers

• Innovation drivers vs. Innovation barriers

• Economic drivers vs. Economic barriers

• Access to feedstock drivers vs. Access to feedstock barriers

• Environmental drivers vs. Environmental barriers

• Societal drivers vs. Societal barriers

• Policy drivers vs. Policy barriers

89
Hassan SS, Williams GA, Jaiswal AK. Moving towards the second generation of lignocellulosic biorefineries in the EU:
Drivers, challenges, and opportunities. Renew Sustain Energy Rev. 2019;101(November 2018):590-599.
doi:10.1016/j.rser.2018.11.041
90
Brunnhofer M, Gabriella N, Schöggl JP, Stern T, Posch A. The biorefinery transition in the European pulp and paper
industry – A three-phase Delphi study including a SWOT-AHP analysis. For Policy Econ. 2020;110(February
2019):101882. doi:10.1016/j.forpol.2019.02.006

60
The resulting driver and barrier categories are shown Table 10.

Table 10. Grouping drivers and barriers into umbrella terms and themes

Drivers (extracted from many sources) General barriers (based on RoadtoBio)

Business drivers / business perspective / new Bio-based alternatives not cost-competitive/ Lower
business models / cost reductions / market drivers performance of bio-based alternatives
Umbrella term “Business drivers” Umbrella term “Business barriers”

Innovation / Advancing R&D / Functional benefits / Need for research and development / Limited
Performance drivers guidance and direction in R&D / Limited
Umbrella term “Innovation drivers” understanding of ecological boundaries and
innovation adaption and diffusion
Umbrella term “Innovation barriers”

Economic growth; rural/community development / Limited availability of funding in the early stages /
job creation / prosperity and employment / People Limited support for scale-up / Limited access to
and community / European finance for start-up & SME
competitiveness/independence Umbrella term “Economic barriers”
Umbrella term “Economic drivers”

Feedstock/Raw Material Flexibility/Security / Low availability of biomass / Non-level playing field

Management of Natural Resources / Resource Umbrella term “Access to feedstock barriers”
Efficiency / Circularity
Umbrella term “Access to feedstock drivers”

Climate change / Environment / Carbon Footprint / Umbrella term “Environmental barriers”

Ecological boundaries / Sustainable planet
Umbrella term “Environmental drivers”

Personal Health / Lifestyle / Consumer awareness Lack of information, understanding and expertise /
and concerns / new purchasing and consumption Low public acceptance of bio-based products /
patterns / Technology acceptance Unrealistic/High expectations
“Societal drivers” Umbrella term “Societal barriers”

Policy and regulation Lack of policy harmonisation / Limited long-term

Umbrella term “Policy drivers” reliability / REACH - Registration, Evaluation,
Authorisation and Evaluation of Chemicals
Umbrella term “Policy barriers”

2.3 Activity B) Specific Barriers and Drivers

For economic actors (e.g. biorefinery operators or investors) specific drivers and barriers
may be of high, if not higher, relevance than general drivers and barriers. Such specific
drivers and barriers will be determined for a limited number of (chemical and material)
product groups. The selection of what product groups to consider will tie into a) the WP
1 biorefinery classification, b) the WP 3 pathways, and c) selection criteria of the
consortium.

SELECTION OF PRODUCT GROUPS AND CHEMICALS

a) WP 1 Biorefinery classification system

WP 1 of the current assignment refined a classification system developed earlier by IEA

Bioenergy Task 42 Biorefinery. The biorefinery classification system distinguishes the
following product groups:

• 13 chemical product groups, as follows: Additives, Agrochemicals, Building blocks,

Catalysts & Enzymes, Colourants, Cosmeceuticals, Flavours & Fragrances, Lubricants,
Nutraceuticals, Paints & Coatings, Pharmaceuticals, Solvents, and Surfactants

61
• 5 material product groups, as follows: Composites, Fibres, Organic Fertilisers,
Polymers, and Resins

Also included in the proposed WP 1 classification, but beyond the scope of this study, are
the following biorefinery products:

• energy products: cooling agents, fuels, heat, and power

• food

• animal feed

b) WP 3 Biorefinery pathways

WP 3 of the current assignment study has identified and studied a series of biorefinery
pathways. For each pathway, several process variants exist regarding secondary refining
and how co-products and residual materials are utilised. Two different approaches are
recognised in how the biorefineries develop:

• bottom-up approach, considers the extension and/or upgrading of existing biomass

processing facility (e.g. sugar, starch, oil, and pulp mill)

• top-down approach, considers new industrial value chains with newly developed, highly
integrated systems

Combining the top-down and a bottom-up approaches, WP 3 identified the following 11

biorefinery pathways91:

A. One platform (C6 sugars) biorefinery using sugar crops

B. One platform (starch) biorefinery using starch crops

C. One platform (oil) biorefinery using oil crops

D. Two-platform (pulp and spent liquor) biorefinery using wood

E. Three platform (C5 sugars, C6 sugars and lignin) biorefinery using lignocellulosic
biomass

F. Two-platform (organic fibres and organic juice) biorefinery using green biomass

G. Two-platform (oil and biogas) biorefinery using aquatic biomass

H. Two-platform (organic fibres and oil) biorefinery using natural fibres

I. One platform (syngas) biorefinery using lignocellulosic biomass and municipal

solid waste

J. Two platform (pyrolytic liquid and biochar) biorefinery using lignocellulosic

biomass

K. One platform (bio-crude) biorefinery using lignocellulosic biomass

91
The pathways do not represent a specific biorefinery facility, there could be several initiatives using this pathway or
its variants in the world. Each of these “umbrella” biorefinery pathways encompasses the different process
variations of this pathway described in literature. In each pathway a broad range of chemicals and materials may
be generated.

62
c) Selection criteria for product groups

Considering the many configuration variants that can exist under each biorefinery
“umbrella”’ pathway the number of candidate product groups for which specific drivers and
barriers could be determined is high92. Available resources limit the number of product
groups that can be assessed to 10. The selection was completed based on the following
criteria:

• Both chemicals and materials shall be represented

• No domination of a single or just a few biorefinery pathways

• Market potential i.e. substantial market volume and/or market growth (CAGR)

• Stakeholder views and preferences

Product groups and chemicals selected

Based on the information listed earlier the following product groups and chemicals were
selected:

Table 11. Selected product groups and chemicals for determining Specific Drivers and Barriers

Product group Chemical/Material

Additives Propylene glycol

lubricants

Solvents

Surfactants

Fibres Microfibrillated cellulose

Polymers & Plastics Thermoplastic starch & Poly lactic acid

Building blocks 1,4-butanediol

Building blocks Lactic acid

Building blocks Methanol

Resins Lignin based phenolic resins

FACTSHEETS SPECIFIC DRIVERS AND BARRIERS

In Annex III, 10 factsheets are given, one for each product group/chemical. These
factsheets have been drafted and validated by an interview with one or more companies
that produce that type of products.

FACTSHEET ANALYSIS TO EXTRACT GENERAL BARRIERS AND DRIVERS.

All factsheets have been analysed, to extract drivers and barriers and drivers that occur in
more than one category. In that case it may not be a specific driver/barrier but a more
general one. These occurrences have been tabulated in Table 12, and these have been

92
For example in commercial, demo, and pilot-scale facilities for biorefinery pathway A the following are produced:
Sugar, ethanol, Ethylene glycols (MEG, DEG, TEG), Lactic acid, Polylactic acid, Lactide monomers, Microcellulose
fibres, arabinose and galacturonic acid, animal feed, carbon dioxide, biogas, heat and electricity (source: WP3
status report, Table 3).

63
used in drafting the list of general drivers and barriers complemented by the literature
review and the views of stakeholders, gathered in interviews.

In this table the number in parenthesis after the specific driver/barrier indicates how often
a driver of barrier is listed in the factsheets, so 6/10 means that in six out of ten factsheets
the barrier is mentioned.

Table 12. Occurrence of Specific drivers and barriers in the factsheets

Category Drivers Barriers

1: Business 1. Many products have multiple 1. Cost competitiveness (7/10)

applications (6/10) 2. Poor performance (4/10)
2. Bio-based is an advantage for 3. Difficult to enter existing markets (4/10)
marketing, demand for bio-based
increasing (7/10)

2: Innovation 1. Technology consolidated (3/10) 1. Issues with IP (2/10)

2. High investments in R&D or R&D is
widespread (2/10)
3. Improved properties (4/10)

3: Economy 1. Increasing EU competitiveness (2/10) 1. High investment costs for scale-up or

production costs (3/10)

4: Feedstock 1. Most cases feedstocks are available 1. Security of supply now or when scaling
from several sources (6/10) up is required (6/10)
2. Efficient extraction of lignocellulosic 2. Food crop use/sustainability questions
sugars creates more feedstock (3/10)
opportunity (2/10)
3. Possibility to use waste (4/10)

5: Climate 1. Offers GHG savings (10/10) 1. Lack of standardized, detailed studied

change and 2. Biodegradability (6/10) information about environmental
environment performance/difficulty proving it (5/10)

6: Citizen and 1. Growing consumer awareness (4/10) 1. Lack of consumer awareness, lack of
Society 2. Non-harmful to health, low toxicity product labelling to increase awareness,
(6/10) bio-based not a selling argument or
“fake products” (lack of knowledge)
(2/10)
2. Confusing terminology (3/10)

7: Policy and 1. Ban on plastics, regulations towards 1. Lack of regulatory push, regulations
regulation sustainable packaging (4/10) country/region dependent (6/10)
2. Some regulatory requirements (e.g.
REACH) are costly and time consuming
(3/10)
3. Lack of standards/labels (2/10)

2.4 Activity C) General Barriers and Drivers

Based on the developed categorisation, general barriers and drivers were derived from
several literature sources, and the Specific Drivers and Barriers work. In Table 13 (page
Table 13) a synthesised/combined table of the general barriers and drivers with respect to
biorefineries in the EU is given. Per category a concise description alluding to the choices
behind the groupings is given.

GENERAL DRIVER AND BARRIER DESCRIPTIONS

Business drivers and barriers

This is about the business-perspective, and the drivers and barriers individual biorefineries
or those that seek to develop them are experiencing.

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The context here is that biorefineries seek to convert biomass into a portfolio of marketable
bio-based products, as follows from the definition. Biorefineries are in development, and
chemical and material products, many of fossil origin are to be replaced by biorefinery
products. This leads already to several barriers and drivers that almost inevitably surface:

• Biorefinery products are often substituting fossil products in an established market,

which means barriers due to established businesses with already optimised value
chains, and tendencies to resist change need to be overcome.

• Biorefineries produce multiple products, for multiple markets, which means that market
focus needs to be divided, and market demands may not align. The flip-side of this is
that feedstocks are used more efficiently, leading to resource efficiency and cost
advantages, and that companies are less dependent on one market.

In Table 13, the business barriers and drivers are grouped under Product properties and
prices, and Markets and applications.

In the Table 13 part about product properties and prices, the advantages of bio-based
products are listed: these can be functional advantages, lower life-cycle costs, and
advantages because of green premiums or corporate social responsibility83. These ‘green
premiums’ actually exists, both according to literature93, and it is mentioned for multiple
product groups in the specific barriers and drivers. This ‘green premiums’ are however
more easily accepted for ‘premium’ products. For more common products it is much more
difficult to charge more94. The driver is furthermore not universally applicable, since it is
also mentioned95 at the barriers that consumers are less willing to pay green premiums,
especially when new bio-based ingredients are used in existing products. Besides these
advantages, bio-based products also exhibit sometimes a lower, and/or less consistent
quality, and higher costs83.

In the part on Markets and applications, benefits of bio-based products are related to their
perceived environmental/sustainable benefits creating a market push via Corporate Social
Responsibility programmes, and purchase policies of Brands, but also that these benefits
can be used in promotions and are more in demand (market push)96. Besides that, the
number of applications for bio-based products rise, and the bio-economy can provide a
wider spectrum of products compared to the fossil industry1. Barriers in this part were
discussed already earlier.

Innovation drivers and barriers

Innovation is very much related to biorefineries, since many products and process are
relatively new, and still in development. From literature and expert interviews it’s clear
that R&D is widespread, and that there are high investments in R&D, assisted by EU (e.g.
BBI-JU), national and regional public funds. There is appetite for investments, helped by
the same market push and pull effects discussed under business drivers and barriers83.

Flip-side of these drivers are the related barriers: Biorefineries are in many cases new
plants, which are - also because of the innovative character – subject to the typical
problems that start-ups have, such as difficulty to attract financing after the pilot phase
(‘the Valley of Death’), and all other associated problems with trying to establish new and
innovative enterprises83. To overcome the problems with scale-up of biorefineries, there
are subsidy programmes (see the information the BBI-JU programme later in this

93
Carus M, Partanen A, Dammer L. Detailed evaluation of GreenPremium prices for bio-based products along the value
chain. 2018;10(2013-03):1-20. https://bioforever.org/sites/default/files/publications/2018-03/Detailed-eval-
GreenPremium-prices-for-bb-prod-along-value-chain.pdf
94
Expert opinion. Interview with an industry expert in the framework of this project, 2020
95
Pfau S, Vos J. Roadmap for the Chemical Industry in Europe towards a Bioeconomy - Deliverable 2.2.; 2017.
doi:10.2169/naika.106.contents
96
European Commission. Bio-Based Products – from Idea to Market.; 2019. doi:10.2777/305874

65
paragraph), and the EU is working towards streamlining financial resources and
coordinating between various funding mechanism, and between different countries94.

Economy drivers and barriers

Economy drivers and barriers are less about the individual business perspective, and more
about the larger benefits and issues related to biorefineries. Biorefineries use agricultural
and forestry feedstocks, and the bioeconomy can thus offer a significant opportunity to
grow and protect jobs and thereby stimulate economic development in rural (farming)
communities. Europe is well-suited for biorefineries because of a skilled workforce and
existing infrastructure. Other drivers for biorefineries are the price volatility of fossil (oil)
feedstocks and instability of oil-producing countries is avoided. Conversely, low oil prices
can also be a barrier if prices are particularly low. Biorefineries allow Europe to be more
self-sufficient, with more resilient supply chains because of distributed feedstock supply
and production83,97

In Europe, cost levels are relatively high compared to the rest of the world. Also, there is
competition from non-EU produces that do not have to comply with CO2 emission reduction
requirements such as ETS. The Carbon Border Adjustment Measure (CBAM) is a policy
initiative that could compensate this (see the section under Policy and regulation)94.

Feedstock drivers and barriers

Biorefineries use biomass as feedstock, which is relatively abundant, though it can -

because of the intensive use for food, feed, materials, and energy - also be viewed as
scarce, also because the amount of arable land is limited. Biomass use for chemicals and
materials is generally viewed as high value, but the (perceived) biomass availability in case
of a full roll-out of biorefineries can be viewed as limited, and hence characterised as a
potential barrier. Given that many biorefineries use oil crops, sugar and/or starch crops,
as shown in WP 4 of this project, the scarcity of biomass and competition with food/feed
is an issue. Quantitatively, the German IfBB has projected98 that the global land area to
be used for bioplastics in 2023 will be 913 700 ha, or 0.007% of the total global arable
land. This can be compared to the use for materials (0.79% of arable land), biofuels
(0.39% of arable land) and food & feed (9.25% of arable land). Other studies99100, note
the issue and offer various solutions for sustainable use of biomass. Policy drivers and
barriers related to this issue are discussed under ‘Policy and regulations’.

Using biomass as feedstock can also for other reasons be problematic, such as high and
fluctuating prices, single-feedstock dependency and pollution through fertilisers used when
growing plants.

One potential barrier is the view by some that the current European/Nordic model of
sustainable forest management, which combines forest management with below-increment
harvesting and – extensive – economic valorisation of forest products, should be
reviewed101. Coupled with the recent scientific debate on whether the sustainable

97
Farai Chireshe and Tjaša Bole-Rentel. The bio-economy can create thousands of jobs and boost our supply chains –
here’s how. https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2020-08-18-the-bio-economy-can-create-thousands-of-jobs-
and-boost-our-supply-chains-heres-how/
98
IfBB- Institute for Bioplastics and Biocomposites. Biopolymers facts and statistics 2019. Biopolym facts Stat.
Published online 2019:3-46. https://www.ifbb-hannover.de/en/facts-and-statistics.html
99
Rijksoverheid. Biomassa 2030. Published online 2016:32.
https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/documenten/rapporten/2015/12/01/biomassa-2030
100
IEA. IEA Bioenergy 28th Update. Vol 31.; 2014. doi:10.1016/s0961-9534(07)00064-5
101
European Wilderness Society. Forest experts demanding change in forest management. Published 2020.
https://wilderness-society.org/more-than-70-leading-forest-experts-warn-against-actionism-in-the-german-forest-
crisis-and-demand-end-of-wood-factories/

66
harvesting level in the EU is reached or even exceeded102, this could lead to less woody
feedstock for biorefineries in the future.

Drivers for using biomass as feedstock are the diversity of feedstocks that can be used
that can create supply chain flexibility83. Surplus lands, or marginal lands can be used for
growing crops, and it is in many cases possible to combine growing biomass with other
desirable land use functions103. Especially forests have multiple functions and values, such
as enhancing biodiversity, recreation, cultural values, and carbon storage104. Lastly, the
increasing availability of source-separated waste is beneficial for biorefineries that use this
type of feedstock105.

Climate change and environment drivers and barriers

The use of biomass for chemicals and materials is driven by the need to reduce fossil
dependency, and to decarbonise the economy. The bioeconomy, of which biorefineries are
an essential part, contributes to many Sustainable Development Goals106, such as Good
Health and Well-being, Sustainable Cities and Communities, Responsible Consumption and
Production, and Climate Action. More specifically related to the environment, biorefinery
products can also offer one or more of benefits, such as biodegradability, low ecotoxicity,
recyclability, and low human toxicity107. Biorefinery products can also replace high energy
intensive materials like steel, and thus lower the carbon footprint.

Given that there are many bio-based products on the market, proving their environmental
or climate benefits is problematic – and thus a barrier. Via instruments like a Life Cycle
Analysis (LCA) the specific benefits of one product – thus on the product level - can be
determined, but LCA’s are costly and time consuming. Furthermore, although there is
standardisation in LCA’s (e.g. the ISO norm 14040), there is still quite some unclarity on
how to conduct these LCA’s for bio-based products and processes. Especially for new
companies/SMEs and for biorefineries that produce many products, this constitutes a
barrier. One recent development is the broader focus on circularity, as opposed to the
exclusive focus of using bio-based materials83,95.

In addition to the barriers above, there is not a level playing field between bio-based
materials and fossil materials. In an open letter to the JRC, Nova explained that fossil-
sources polymers are subject to less stringent demands regarding LCA and sustainability
as compared to bio-based polymers, which means that bio-based and fossil-based
polymers are not scrutinised on an equal footing. Secondly, bio-based processes are often
new and in development, as opposed to well-established value chains for fossil products108
but still need to show they are sustainable from day one94.

102
Korhonen K. A new article in the journal Nature overestimates the increase of forest harvesting in Europe.
Published 2020. https://www.luke.fi/en/blog/a-new-article-in-the-journal-nature-overestimates-the-increase-of-
forest-harvesting-in-europe/
103
Farai Chireshe and Tjaša Bole-Rentel. The bio-economy can create thousands of jobs and boost our supply chains –
here’s how. https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2020-08-18-the-bio-economy-can-create-thousands-of-jobs-
and-boost-our-supply-chains-heres-how/
104
Orazio C, Kies U, Edwards D. Handbook for wood mobilisation in Europe. Published online 2017:116.
http://simwood.efi.int
105
Favoino E, Giavini M. Bio-Waste Generation in the EU: Current Capture Levels and Future Potential.; 2020.
https://zerowasteeurope.eu/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/2020_07_06_bic_zwe_report_bio_waste.pdf
106
Anand M. Brief for GSDR – 2016 Update Innovation and Sustainable Development: A Bioeconomic Perspective.
Published online 2016:1-4
107
Panchaksharam Y, Kiri P, Bauen A, et al. Roadmap for the Chemical Industry in Europe towards a Bioeconomy.;
2019. https://www.roadtobio.eu/uploads/publications/roadmap/RoadToBio_strategy_document.pdf
108
Carus M, vom Berg C, Scharf A, Puente Á. How can the environmental effects of bio-based polymers be compared
with those of petrochemical polymers on equal footing ? 2019;(Ilcd):1-6. https://www.european-
bioplastics.org/nova-institute-published-open-letter-to-jrc-on-comparability-of-bio-based-and-petrochemical-
polymers/

67
It should be noted that, although this letter only pertains to bio-based polymers, there is
no reason to expect that the situation is any differed in any other case where bio-based
products compete with their fossil counterparts.

One specific issue for bioplastics is that recycling of bio compostable plastics is not in line
with current composting practices. Because of that, bio compostable plastics are treated
like regular plastics and utilised in e.g. Refuse-Derived-Fuel and similar lower valued
applications83.

Citizen and Society drivers and barriers

The use of bio-based products by consumers is arguably a driver for biorefineries. A

growing consumer preference for ‘green’ products is observed, coupled with a growing
awareness on the need for action regarding carbon emission reduction96. Many people have
a positive attitude towards bio-based products, and increasingly prefer bio-based, or
‘natural’ products, especially those related to skin contact, and personal health83109. Bio-
based products can also in some cases contribute to occupational health and safety, for
example by being less toxic, such as with biolubricants.

Drawbacks for biorefineries are the poor terminology. Bio-based is a poor marketing term,
and terms like biodegradability versus bio-based can be confusing. Added to that is the
low public awareness of biorefinery products, and the association that some consumers
have with bio-based as low-quality and/or high-priced. For some stakeholders, the term
‘bio-based’ in itself is not a fully convincing vision.

A more general emerging barrier for biorefinery products is that some stakeholders are
casting doubt on all use of biomass for products, which has led to negative perceptions by
some. This is intertwined with the ‘food versus fuel’ discussion110 which pertains mainly to
biofuels and bioenergy, and the – earlier mentioned – discussion on sustainable
management of forests. Because biorefineries – also those producing chemicals and
materials – are closely linked to bioenergy, biofuels, and forestry, it is realistic to assume
that the sector will also be affected by this discussion. One example showing this influence
is that biolubricant producers have to prove that their products are not produced using
palm oil94.

Labels can be used to highlight the benefits of bio-based products, but strict requirements,
combined with the fact that many bio-based products also contain non-bio-based
components, mean that some labels (such as labelling cosmetics products are ‘natural’
only if 100% bio-based) mean that many bio-based products do not qualify).

Policy and regulation drivers and barriers

Regulatory incentives and barriers can be particularly strong drivers/barriers and impact a
wide range of biorefinery pathways. They are likely to rank high in the prioritisation.

There are different ways in which governments can regulate, influence behaviour, and alter
incentives111. Each of these instruments has its advantages and disadvantages, strengths,
and weaknesses:

109
Sijtsema SJ, Onwezen MC, Reinders MJ, Dagevos H, Partanen A, Meeusen M. Consumer perception of bio-based
products - An exploratory study in 5 European countries. NJAS - Wageningen J Life Sci. 2016;77:61-69.
doi:10.1016/j.njas.2016.03.007
110
Bioenergy E. Food versus Fuel. https://etipbioenergy.eu/sustainability/food-vs-fuel-debate
111
Wageningen University and Research. An overview of suitable regional policies to support bio-based business
models - Power4BIO deliverable 4.2. 2020. Accessed July 15, 2020. https://www.wur.nl/en/show/Biobased-
resins.htm

68
 1. regulation – a command and control approach using obligatory standards and
licenses that require companies/market players to change their behaviour and
punishes them if they are detected to be non-compliant.

2. economic instruments – includes all instruments changing price incentives

(taxes, subsidies, feed-in tariffs), but also quantity constraints ((tradable) quota,
tariff rate quota), and charges.

3. voluntary approaches – could be codes of good practice, self-regulation and other

industry-led initiatives. Financial incentive schemes could be part of these
instruments. These approaches typically encourage rather than force people or
businesses to show the desired behaviour.

4. information and advice sharing systems – policies aimed at raising the

awareness and facilitating changes in behaviour.

5. market-based signalling approaches – labelling, traceability, voluntary

certification schemes and farm assurance schemes. These approaches are often
related to informational problems (lack of information about product quality and
food safety) hindering the proper functioning of markets.

6. other measures/instruments not in the categories above such as vision

documents, road maps, strategies.

The last four types of instruments are all examples of so-called “soft measures”. Mirroring
this terminology, the first two types of instruments could be referred to as “hard
measures”.

Regulatory incentives and barriers that apply specifically for bio-based chemicals and
materials were studied in the first year of the earlier mentioned RoadToBio project by
Nova-institute with support from BTG. From some tens of European policies and regulations
the most relevant ones were selected. The following were considered the most relevant
the development of biorefineries and the market potential of bio-based chemicals and
materials:

1. Renewable Energy Directive II (RED II)

2. Waste Framework Directive (WFD)

3. Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH)

4. Common Agricultural Policy (CAP)

5. Council Regulation (EEC) No 2658/87 (Common Customs Tariff - CCT)

6. Genetically Modified Organisms Directive (2001/18/EC GMO)

7. EU Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS)

8. Energy Efficiency Directive (EED) and Energy Performance of Buildings Directive

(EPBD)

9. Land Use and Land Use Change (LULUCF)

10. European Green Deal

11. Circular Economy Package (CEP)

12. Packaging and Packaging waste Directive

69
 13. Sustainable Finance Taxonomy

14. Deforestation and forest degradation

Below, the relevance of each of these policies with respect to biorefineries is described.

The revised renewable energy directive 2018/2001/EU (“RED II”)112 is a set of

policy initiatives by the European Commission with the overarching aim of making Europe
climate neutral in 2050. To this end, the overall EU target for Renewable Energy Sources
consumption by 2030 has been raised to 32%, and a transport sub-target has been
included of minimum of 14% of the energy consumed in road and rail transport by 2030
as renewable energy.

One effect of the RED II on biorefineries and bio-based products is that of a non-level
playing field: The RED II, and many national programmes provide incentives for bioenergy
and biofuels and consequently the use of feedstocks for that purpose. This creates higher
prices for biomass, and thus higher costs for biorefineries. So, the limited biomass supply
is favoured to be used for energy purposes, which directly contradicts the circular economy
idea because it reduces the cascading use of biomass and instead promotes direct, final
use for energy generation. For certain types of biomass – those types that are not
considered to carry the risk of Land Use Change – an even stronger competition is created,
since these feedstocks can be ‘double-counted’, meaning that they can receive additional
benefits. Also, these are not subject to the gradual phase-out of First-Generation biofuels.
This effect is especially occurring for residual oils, Crude Tall Oil, glycerol and animal fats113.
It should however be noted that many biorefineries also produce bioenergy in the form of
heat, power and/or biofuels, so the incentives of the RED II will in many cases also support
biorefineries development.

Positive effects on the availability of biomass are the sustainability and GHG criteria that
were introduced in the RED and the RED II. For biofuels this means for example that
minimum amounts of GHG savings need to be achieved, ranging from 50% for older plants
(before October 2015) to 65% for the newest plants (after January 2026). Also for forestry
feedstocks sustainability criteria are mandated, and GHG criteria for solid and gaseous
biomass are defined. All these criteria will have the effect that biomass will be used more
efficiently, and that more energy, chemicals, and materials can be generated with the same
amount of feedstock.

The Waste Framework Directive (WFD) has been established in 2008, and was updated
in 2018114. The goals of this update were to ensure that waste management systems of
member states would be improved regarding sustainable materials, increase efficiency of
resource use and to make sure that waste is valued as a resource115. Similarly, to the
Circular Economy Package, this update is mainly focused on non-biomass, finite resources.
However, the waste reduction aimed for can be beneficial for biorefineries since many bio-
based products are biodegradable and compostable. Also allowing biodegradable and
compostable packaging to be collected with the bio-waste and recycled in industrial
composting and anaerobic digestion will be a driver for biorefineries. Another measure that
can be beneficial is the obligation of member states to set up separate collection systems
for bio-waste, since this means a higher availability of separated biowaste streams as
feedstocks for biorefineries.

112
European Commission. renewable energy directive 2018/2001/EU. Published online 2018. https://eur-
lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=uriserv:OJ.L_.2018.328.01.0082.01.ENG&toc=OJ:L:2018:328:TOC
113
Vom Berg C, Dammer L, Vos J, Pfau S. Roadmap for the Chemical Industry in Europe towards a Bioeconomy -
Deliverable 2.1.; 2018. https://www.roadtobio.eu/
114
European Commission. Waste Framework Directive 2018/851. Published 2018. https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-
content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:32018L0851
115
Latham & Watkins LLP. The EU Adopts Four Directives to Solidify Europe’s Leading Position in Waste Management.
Published 2018

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A barrier for the use of waste streams in biorefineries is the sometimes non-uniform
classification of materials as waste, residue, or coproduct, which leads to loopholes that
cannot be addressed by national legislation alone. Feedstocks are classified differently in
the Member States, so that a feedstock can be seen as a co-product in one country while
being labelled as a residue in another. This ambiguity in classification of a material as being
a “product” or “waste” can result in situations where a material has to comply with both
product and waste legislations, depending on the regions it is marketed in.

This can result in problems with end-of-life treatment, how the biorefinery is characterised
(as waste treatment facility or production facility), and whether the final products can be
classified as ‘product’ or ‘waste’113. In most countries (e.g. AT, FR, UK, NL), individual
companies can apply for an end-of-waste status of their products in a standardised
procedure. In some countries (DE, IT), this option seems not to be available. In those
cases, only the legislator can start such a procedure 116.

It used to be the case that use of gasification, pyrolysis and other processes such as
industrial biotechnology to produce new chemical materials from waste was not counted
as recycling; but this has been chanced in the 2018 update of the WFD.

REACH is the European Regulation on Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and

Restriction of Chemicals117. It entered into force in 2007. REACH aims to improve the
protection of human health and the environment through the better and earlier
identification of the intrinsic properties of chemical substances. This is done via four key
processes, namely the registration, evaluation, authorisation, and restriction of chemicals.
Manufacturers and importers are required to gather information on the properties of their
chemical substances, allowing safe handling. The information must be registered in a
central database in the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) in Helsinki
(https://echa.europa.eu/). REACH ensures that new substances, once registered can be
freely used and traded in the EU. REACH also provides for a level playing field with non-EU
producers, by also requiring registration of imported chemicals that are placed on the EU
market.

For biorefineries and bio-based products REACH implies that for new chemical substances
– often the case in innovative biorefineries – registration is required. This registration is
progressively more elaborate and expensive when the amount of product that is placed on
the market increases. This is especially difficult for small and medium-sized enterprises
(SMEs) that do not have sufficient internal know-how. ECHA has introduced reduced fees
for SMEs which reduces this burden, which helps to lessen that part of the barrier.

The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) is a set of policies, defined at EU level that
wants to ensure the stable supply of affordable food in the EU, safeguard farmers income,
and contribute to climate change mitigation, and supporting rural development and
landscapes. Support for EU farmers was in 2018 about 1/3 of the EU budget118. A side
benefit for biorefineries is that a stable supply of food also means availability of crops and
residues for biorefining.

An effect on biorefineries and bio-based products is that costs of feedstock produced in

Europe are generally high compared to other regions, though it should be mentioned that
other factors, like scarcity of land, and relatively high farming incomes will likely also be
important. These high costs of feedstock mean that bio-based products, that in many cases
compete on a global scale, are at a disadvantage. These high costs are related to quota
and tariffs, and the generally higher costs because of demonstration of the necessary

116
Vis M, Toussaint A, Houser H, Probst M, Insam H. Guidelines on Legal and Pre-Normative Issues in the Focus
Regions - Residue2Heat Deliverable 6.7.; 2019. www.residue2heat.eu
117
European Commission. REACH. Published online 2007. https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-
content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:32006R1907R(01)
118
European Commission. The common agricultural policy at a glance. Published online 2020.
https://ec.europa.eu/info/food-farming-fisheries/key-policies/common-agricultural-policy/cap-glance_en

71
environmental sustainability standards by farmers, which requires complex and time-
consuming procedures to demonstrate the biomass’ sustainability113.

The Common Customs Tariff (CCT) is the common European set of customs tariffs that
apply to goods imported in the EU Single Market119. In 1987 legislation was introduced to
set up a database (TARIC) in which all tariffs, agricultural measures, trade defence
measures, prohibitions and restrictions are combined. The tariffs and quota are the same
in every Member State, but differ significantly per goods category, with generally higher
tariffs for agricultural goods.

The effect of this is generally higher prices for agricultural goods in the EU. This leads to
increased costs for biorefineries. Though the products of the biorefineries themselves may
be protected by these import tariffs, this decreases competitiveness outside the EU. As a
consequence, this is an incentive for producers to look for site locations outside of Europe.
Another consequence of the CCT is that many petrochemicals are exempt from import
tariffs or fall under specific agreements that lower the import tariff rate. As a general trend,
petrochemicals often have import tax advantages over bio-based feedstock, resulting in
competitive disadvantages for bio-based chemicals and materials113. High import tariff can
also lead to uncertainty regarding investments, since policy changes, e.g. through Free
Trade Agreements (FTAs) – of which the EU has a large number and is working on more -
can have a large effect.

The EU has a number of regulations in place to regulate the development and use of
Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) of which the first one was legislated in 2001120.
The main goals of the strict regulations are ensuring the protection of humans and the
environment, in accordance with the precautionary principle. The regulations are enforced
at the point where GMOs are placed on the market, and at the point where they are
released in the environment.

Currently, when the level of approved GMO exceeds 0.9% clear labelling is required. For
non-approved GMO this threshold is zero. Some genetic modification techniques are
exempted because of a proven track record, but many techniques are subject to this
regulation. These thresholds limit the use of new biotechnologies and slow the EU scientific
progress on this area.

EU legislation makes a distinction between (1) contained use of genetically modified micro-
organisms (GMM), which falls under Directive 2009/41/EC and (2) deliberate release,
which is basically any activity with GMOs that is not contained use, and falls under Directive
2001/18/EC. Generally speaking, contained use of GMM has less risk of releasing GMM in
the environment, which normally means less risks, and therefore less cumbersome
approval procedures.

For the other option (deliberate release), risks are perceived to be higher, and
consequently the approval process is slow and expensive. According to a report from Ernst
& Young published in 2014121, it takes on average around 4 years for a GMO import to be
approved in Europe and for GMO cultivation applications it tends to take even longer. Costs
for the applicants are estimated at between €7m and €15m, mostly due to the necessity
of many studies. New and improved crops therefore face long periods of insecurity before
they become accessible as feedstock for the chemical industry and their products. This
means that GM improved crops, with possibly higher yields, do not become available in the
EU.

119
European Commission. Council Regulation (EEC) No 2658/87 of 23 July 1987 on the tariff and statistical
nomenclature and on the Common Customs Tariff. Published online 1987. https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-
content/en/ALL/?uri=CELEX:31987R2658
120
European Commission. GMO legislation. Published online 2001. https://ec.europa.eu/food/plant/gmo/legislation_en
121
E&Y. Biotechnology in Europe The Tax , Finance and Regulatory Framework And.; 2014.
http://www.europabio.org/sites/default/files/report/ey-europabio_report_final_1.pdf

72
The European Union Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS) represents a common
system that caps the total CO2 emission from all larger installations in the EU. It provides
an – adjustable – absolute cap, and allows companies to trade their surpluses, thereby
ensuring that CO2 emission reduction are carried out in a cost-effective and economically
efficient way122.

The EU ETS allows for the capture of CO2 to be included. However, the use of CO2 in further
processes and products (Carbon Capture and Utilisation, CCU) is not recognised in the
current (third period) EU ETS. This also effects the chemical utilisation of CO2 emitted from
green carbon sources. This is a barrier for products, also produced in biorefineries, made
from CO2.

The amended Energy Performance in Buildings Directive (EPBD)123 has as one of the
objectives to create a clear path towards a decarbonised building stock in the EU by 2050.
One of the measures is that all new buildings must be nearly zero-energy buildings (NZEB)
from 31 December 2020, whereby only the ‘use-phase’ of the building is taken into
account, not the production of the building materials. The Energy Efficiency Directive
(EED)124 mandates energy efficiency improvements, setting an energy efficiency target for
2030 of at least 32.5%, relative to the 2007 modelling projections for 2030.

Effects of the measures with respect to biorefineries are not well understood, also because
the EPBD and the EED are not uniformly applied because of differences between Member
States. However, it is reported that Insulation performance / thermal conductivity of
natural fibre materials is not evaluated fairly. These materials can buffer moisture without
function loss, but the standard evaluation applies a correction factor, leading to worse
results. In some Member States these materials are not allowed at all. The more general
barrier is lack of fair standardisation and regulation for bio-based construction materials.

The European Green Deal125 is a set of policy initiatives by the European Commission
with the overarching aim of making Europe climate neutral in 2050. Though many of the
initiatives are not yet fully worked out, the set of initiatives is likely to influence the
development of biorefineries in several ways:

• It is to be expected that the actions to reduce CO2 emissions via a Climate Law126 and
promote a circular economy will be beneficial, as well as actions to reduce pollution
from chemicals. The BIC (Bio-based Industries Consortium) has put out a statement
supporting the Climate Law, while urging the EU to also include CO2 emissions from
materials and manufactured products (22% of total CO2 emissions in the EU) in the
Climate Law127.

• Another element in the Green Deal is a Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).
This would mean that non-EU trading partners that are less strict on emission would
pay a carbon tax when they put products on the EU Market. This way, carbon leakage
would be avoided. Recently (June 2020) the EU launched a consultation on this. Such
a measure would make it easier for the EU to mandate or stimulate biorefinery products
while maintaining a level playing field. It is however not clear if and how fast this

122
European Commission. EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS). Published online 2018.
https://ec.europa.eu/clima/policies/ets_en#tab-0-1
123
European Commission. Directive (EU) 2018/844 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 2018
amending Directive 2010/31/EU on the energy performance of buildings and Directive 2012/27/EU on energy
efficiency. Published online 2018. https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-
content/EN/TXT/?uri=uriserv%3AOJ.L_.2018.156.01.0075.01.ENG
124
European Commission. Directive (EU) 2018/2002 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December
2018 amending Directive 2012/27/EU on energy efficiency. Published online 2018. https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-
content/EN/TXT/?uri=uriserv%3AOJ.L_.2018.328.01.0210.01.ENG
125
European Commission. The European Green Deal : Questions & Answers. Published 2020.
https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/QANDA_19_6690
126
European Commission. European Climate Law. Published 2020. https://ec.europa.eu/clima/policies/eu-climate-
action/law_en#
127
BIC. BIC supports EU in achieving climate neutrality by 2050 in joint statement on Climate Law. Published 2020.
https://biconsortium.eu/Climate-Law

73
 measure will become relevant for biorefineries, since the EU has stated in its Inception
Impact Assessment that this mechanism will be targeted to selected sectors, namely
those that are most at risk of carbon leakage. It is unclear if chemical and material
biorefineries fall under such a sector128.

• Financing biorefinery initiatives will likely be stimulated, via the 100 billion Euro Just
Transition Fund. A policy initiative to make agriculture more sustainable (from farm to
fork), could have an indirect impact through the valorisation of organic residues.

• Part of the EU Green Deal is a Circular Economy Action Plan that is considered by the
EU to be at the core of the EU Green Deal129. The EC notes that half of total greenhouse
gas emissions come from resource extraction and processing, and that it is not possible
to achieve climate neutrality without the transition to a fully circular economy. Included
in this new Action Plan is the drafting of a Sustainable Product Policy Framework. Such
a framework – when established – would be beneficial for biorefineries, because it
would address challenges related to bio-based plastics. Another initiative is the use of
the Product and Organisation Environmental Footprint methods. With respect to these
last two methods transition projects are currently carried out130. The PEF involves a
simplified method of determine the environmental impact of products. This could be
beneficial for bio-based products, given the various problems with proving the
sustainability detailed elsewhere in this paragraph. Current proposals are however not
considered entirely appropriate for bioplastics by the industry itself94

• To ensure that the EU tackles tackle pollution from all sources and moves towards a
toxic-free environment, a Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability Communication has
been adopted by the EC. This strategy contains a set of measures, such as related to
the development of safe and sustainable-by-design criteria for chemicals, establish a
sustainable-by-design network, financial support for safe substances, legislation, etc.
Included in the strategy is to explore regulatory tools to drive and reward the
development of sustainable bio-based chemicals131.

• A hydrogen strategy for a climate-neutral Europe focuses on renewable hydrogen, as

it has the biggest decarbonisation potential and is therefore the most compatible option
with the EU's climate neutrality goal132. Green hydrogen (i.e. the production of
hydrogen via electrolysis of water using renewable electricity is the focus) but there is
the potential bio-based hydrogen from syngas via biomass gasification or upgrading
and reforming of biogas from anaerobic digestion. These biogenic processes are often
found as part of biorefinery configurations however the hydrogen strategy only
mentions this in for the longer term (after 2030), which is after the scope of the study.
Green hydrogen is itself also being implemented as part of biorefinery complexes, for
example it can be used to provide supplementary hydrogen in the production of
methanol via gasification of biomass. The green hydrogen increases the hydrogen in
the syngas mixture to the necessary ratio for methanol synthesis.

• The EU strategy to reduce methane emissions focuses on focuses on addressing

anthropogenic methane emissions (i.e. emissions associated with human
activity)133.There is a clear link for the biorefinery pathways that are based on anaerobic
digestion of wastes (e.g. manure, sewage sludge) to produce biogas. This processes

128
European Commission. EU Green Deal (carbon border adjustment mechanism). 2020.
https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/12228-Carbon-Border-Adjustment-
Mechanism
129
European Commission. Questions and Answers: A New Circular Economy Action Plan for a Cleaner and More
Competitive Europe. Published 2020. https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/QANDA_20_419
130
European Commission. The Environmental Footprint transition phase. Published 2020.
https://ec.europa.eu/environment/eussd/smgp/ef_transition.htm
131
European Commission. Chemicals – strategy for sustainability (toxic-free EU environment). 2020.
https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/12264-Chemicals-strategy-for-
sustainability-
132
https://ec.europa.eu/energy/sites/ener/files/hydrogen_strategy.pdf
133
https://ec.europa.eu/energy/sites/ener/files/eu_methane_strategy.pdf

74
 reduces methane emissions as the methane is used either for combustion (and
therefore converted to CO2, a less potent greenhouse gas), or converted to chemicals
(e.g. through reforming to syngas and conversion to methanol).

• The EU is currently working on a textile strategy which is expected to be published in

2021. This is expected to be relevant to bio-based fibres produced from biorefineries
that have advantages over synthetic PET fibres (that are largely imported) and are a
leading cause of microplastics pollution.

The Green Deal could possibly be detrimental to the availability of feedstocks for
biorefineries when other use of biomass e.g. for bioenergy and biofuels is overstimulated.

The recently (2020) agreed upon EU Recovery and Resilience facility134 - which provides
significant (672.5 billion Euro) financial support in the form of loans and grants to EU
Member States - is also expected to contribute to the realisation of the Green Deal
objectives. Each national recovery and resilience plan will have to contain a minimum of
37% of the budget related to climate.

The EU Circular Economy Package (CEP) 135has as goal to stimulate Europe's transition
towards a circular economy. There are overlaps with the bioeconomy and/or biorefineries,
but the focus is different136. The Circular Economy Package mainly focuses on non-biomass,
finite resources, and how to use, re-use and recycle these. There are however measures
included for biorefineries/bio-based products. Measures that will act as drivers for bio-
refineries are a target for recycling wood packaging, an obligation to collect biowaste
separately, and a reference to food waste reduction targets. A more general driver is that
the EU Circular Economy Package sets as goal to make better and more efficient use of
biomass resource, while a divergence is that the value of biodegradable products does not
sit well with the goal of preserving value for the longest time possible.

One element of the Package is the Single-use plastics Directive (SUPD) of 2019137. This
directive constitutes a ban on the 10 single-use plastic items most found in marine litter.
In total 70% of all marine litter constitutes of one of these items. The directive bans these
plastics when alternatives are readily available. Guidance to implementation of this
directive is currently being developed, although some member states (e.g. France) have
already adopted legislation. It is unclear yet how the SUPD precisely will affect bioplastics,
and by extension biorefineries that produce these. According to the sector itself, the EU
should stronger acknowledge the benefits of bioplastics in this directive138. Stakeholders
also mention that companies are currently pausing development work on bioplastics
because of the uncertainty related to the ban94.

The Packaging and Packaging waste Directive has been established in 2004 and was
updated in 2018139. In this legislation, it is made clear that bio-based plastics can help to
reduce environmental impacts of plastic packaging and reduce Europe’s dependence on
imported raw materials. Bio-based and recycled materials are recognised as equally viable
solutions to make packaging more sustainable. Also, Member States are encouraged to

134
https://ec.europa.eu/info/business-economy-euro/recovery-coronavirus/recovery-and-resilience-facility_en#the-
recovery-and-resilience-facility
135
European Commission. Circular Economy Package : Questions & Answers. Published 2015.
https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/MEMO_15_6204
136
European Environment Agency. The Circular Economy and the Bioeconomy - Partners in Sustainability.; 2018.
doi:10.2800/02937
137
European Commission. Single-use plastics: New EU rules to reduce marine litter. 2020.
https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/MEMO_18_3909
138
European Bioplastics. Guidance on single-use plastics directive: European Commission to stick to its timeline. 2020.
https://www.european-bioplastics.org/guidance-on-single-use-plastics-directive-european-commission-to-stick-to-
its-timeline/
139
European Commission. Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive. Published 2018. https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-
content/EN/TXT/?uri=uriserv:OJ.L_.2018.150.01.0141.01.ENG&toc=OJ:L:2018:150:TOC

75
promote the use of bio-based packaging that can be recycled or composted. The proposal
contains no ‘hard measures’ however140.

The Regulation on the inclusion of greenhouse gas emissions and removals from
land use, land use change and forestry (LULUCF)141, has been adopted in 2018. The
central idea behind this regulation is that Member States have to ensure that greenhouse
gas emissions from land use, land use change or forestry are offset by at least an
equivalent removal of CO₂ from the atmosphere in the period 2021 to 2030. This means
for example that when a Member States remove a forest (deforestation), the resulting CO2
emissions need to be compensated, e.g. by planting new forests. Also, emissions from the
use of biomass for energy are recorded.

With respect to biorefineries and the LULUCF several factors will likely play a role.
Recognising the role of forests as carbon sinks could lead to more forest in the EU, and
subsequently more feedstock for biorefineries. The effect on the use of biomass for energy
seems limited142, so it is expected that the indirect effects of that particular issue (biomass
for energy) on biorefineries is also limited. Theoretically, when the deployment of
biorefineries increases significantly, and when the use of food crops in biorefineries stays
the same or becomes larger, there might be an effect on feedstock prices for these
biorefineries.

The EU has recently adopted a Sustainable Finance Taxonomy143. This involves the
establishment of an EU classification system for sustainable activities. Technical screening
criteria have been developed, identifying 70 climate change mitigation and 68 climate
change adaptation activities. Additionally, criteria that must ensure that no significant harm
is being done (do no significant harm, or DNSH) have been developed144.

Biorefineries would certainly benefit from the taxonomy, if it is clear they can fulfil the
technical screening criteria. This could be the case for the production of bioplastics, which
would fall under the heading C21 (Manufacturing of plastics in primary form). Also, the
manufacturing of other bio-based chemicals could qualify under the heading of C20
(Manufacture of other organic basic chemicals). It is not possible to determine at this
moment of all products for biorefineries could qualify, given the very wide spectrum of bio-
based products. It is clear, however, that this taxonomy could facilitate the increased
availability for financial instruments for many biorefineries.

An upcoming EU initiative is the deforestation and forest degradation initiative145. This

initiative aims to minimise the EU’s contribution to deforestation and forest degradation
worldwide and promote the consumption of products from deforestation-free supply chains
in the EU. The initiative complements existing EU regulations on the banning of illegal
logging, and the Renewable Energy Directive which sets sustainability criteria for bioenergy
from biomass. The initiative is particularly relevant for agricultural commodities;
approximately 70 percent of deforestation is connected to agricultural commodity

140
BiofuelsDigest. New European legislation highlights benefits of bioplastics. Published 2018.
https://www.biofuelsdigest.com/bdigest/2018/03/07/new-european-legislation-highlights-benefits-of-bioplastics/
141
European Commission. Land use and forestry regulation for 2021-2030. Published 2018.
https://ec.europa.eu/clima/policies/forests/lulucf_en#tab-0-0
142
abuurs GJ, Arets EJMM, Lesschen J-P, Schelhaas MJ. Effects of the EU-LULUCF regulation on the use of biomass for
bio-energy. Published online 2018. https://www.wur.nl/en/Publication-details.htm?publicationId=publication-way-
353338333338
143
European Commission. REGULATION (EU) 2020/852 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 18
June 2020 on the establishment of a framework to facilitate sustainable investment, and amending Regulation (EU)
2019/2088. Published online 2020. https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-
content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32020R0852&from=EN
144
European Commission. Taxonomy : Final Report of the Technical Expert What Is the EU Taxonomy ?; 2020.
https://ec.europa.eu/info/sites/info/files/business_economy_euro/banking_and_finance/documents/200309-
sustainable-finance-teg-final-report-taxonomy_en.pdf
145
European Commission. Deforestation and forest degradation – reducing the impact of products placed on the EU
market. Published 2020. https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/12137-
Minimising-the-risk-of-deforestation-and-forest-degradation-associated-with-products-placed-on-the-EU-market

76
production146. For EU biorefineries this initiative will be beneficial as it will be one additional
step towards a level playing field with non-EU biorefineries. The public consultation is
expected to be finished end of 2020, with the initiative to be completed in 2021.

Regional aspects play an important role in the broader development of the bioeconomy,
and more specifically in the development of biorefineries. Here, regional aspects can imply
regions as in clusters of member states, national (member state) level, or the sub-national
regional level.

One first aspect is that there are stark regional differences regarding policy development.
A study by the IEA on the availability of national bioeconomy strategies, showed that the
policy development level was relatively high in North-Western Europe, and less in Eastern
Europe147.

A second issue is the bioeconomy status in the Central and Eastern European countries.
This has been the focus of the Bioeast project (www.bioeast.eu), supplemented by JRC
work148. Their work shows that the bioeconomy sector in CEE countries employs a large
number of people – 40% of the total bioeconomy sector in the EU – but only 9% of the
bioeconomy turnover in the EU. This partly reflects differences in labour productivity, but
the JRC points to a relatively low number of biorefineries as evidence of an untapped
potential, particularly as many CEE countries can be characterised as having a relative
abundance of biomass149. identified as main barriers with respect to the bioeconomy in
CEE countries is the insufficient infrastructure, missing links between industries, such as
agriculture and the petrochemical industry and the regional abundance of fossil resources.

Besides regulations, another ‘hard’ instrument is subsidies. Many subsidies exist to bring
the development of biorefineries further, at EU level and at national and regional level.
One EU-level programme that is well-known and actively used is – next to the regular
Horizon 2020 programme and the Horizon Europe programme - the BBI-JU (Bio-based
Industries Joint Undertaking) programme. This programme was mentioned by several
stakeholders that were interviewed in the framework of this project. It is a public/private
cooperation between the EC and a consortium of bio-based industries, that provides
funding for research, development, and demonstration. Of particular interest are the BBI-
JU Flagship projects150. These are Innovation Actions, where financial support is given for
larger scale demonstration projects; in many cases innovative biorefineries.

By way of a summary a list of the regulatory drivers and barriers on EU level is given in
Table 13:

146
Chain reaction research. The Chain: EU Proposals for Deforestation-Free Supply Chains Another Step in the
Transformation of Agricultural Commodity Trade. Published 2019. https://chainreactionresearch.com/eu-proposals-
for-deforestation-free-supply-chains-another-step-in-the-transformation-of-agricultural-commodity-trade/
147
Motola V, De Bari I, Pierro N, Giocoli A. Bioeconomy and Biorefining Strategies in the EU Member States and
beyond - Reference Year 2018.; 2018. https://www.ieabioenergy.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Bioeconomy-
and-Biorefining-Strategies_Final-Report_DEC2018.pdf
148
Ronzon T, Gurria P, Parisi C, Philippidis G, M’Barek R. Socio-economic insights into the bioeconomy in BIOEAST
countries. Research Brief. 2018;1:1-22. doi:10.2760/560977
149
Piotrowski S, Dammer L. State of Play of Central and Eastern Europe’s Bioeconomy. Published online 2018
150
BBI-JU. BBI-JU project overview. 2020. https://www.bbi-europe.eu/projects

77
 Table 13. Drivers and barriers related to policies and regulations

Category Drivers Barriers

RED II 1. Bioenergy produced by biorefineries is 1. Higher demand and higher prices for
supported biomass
2. Sustainability criteria, meaning more 2. Non-level playing field for biochemicals
biomass available and biomaterials with bioenergy and
biofuels
3. Additional incentives for certain low-
ILUC biomass types

WFD 1. Waste reduction aims do benefit 1. Non-uniform classification of materials

biodegradable products as waste, residue or coproduct.
2. Allowing biodegradable and - 2. Usage of waste for chemicals requires
compostable materials collection with regulatory work
bio-waste
3. Obligations to set-up separate collection
for biowastes

REACH 1. Stable framework, one registration for 1. Difficult & expensive procedure of
all EU admitting new chemicals
2. Level playing field with non-EU 2. Lack of knowledge by SMEs
chemicals benefits EU producers since
unsafe products are banned in EU
3. Some support for SMEs

CAP 1. Availability of crops and residues for 1. High costs of bio-based feedstock
biorefining

CCT 1. Protection of products against world 1. Global price disadvantage

market prices 2. Competitive disadvantage vs.
petrochemicals
3. Uncertainty for long-term investments

GMO 1. Mandatory labelling of GMO products

2. Slow and expensive approval procedure

EU ETS 1. CCU processes not eligible for ETS

credits

EED & EBPD 1. General lack of fair regulation &

standardisation for new bio-based
options,

European Green 1. Benefits expected from climate change

Deal action, the Climate Law and circular
economy initiatives like the Sustainable
Product Policy Framework, Chemicals
strategy for sustainability; unclear if
Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism
will be beneficial

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2.4.1 SUMMARY TABLE GENERAL DRIVERS AND BARRIERS

Below the drivers and barriers of all seven categories are summarised.

Table 14. Overview table of general drivers and barriers

Category Drivers Barriers

1: Business Product properties and prices Product properties and prices

Bio-based products can offer various Lower quality vis-à-vis fossil-based
functional benefits e.g. biodegradability, equivalents; Difficulty in maintaining
foaming properties or solubility, high consistent product quality and purity83;
lubricity and adhesivity, high strength, High (production) costs, need to compete
weight reduction etc83. against very efficient fossil value chains83;
Bio-based products achieve Green Most consumers are only willing to pay
Premium prices in many applications94 little or no more for bio-based products96,
Bio-based products (e.g. bio-lubricants) in particular for commodities (e.g.
may cost less over the product lifecycle lubricants). Existing products can only claim
owing to lower maintenance, storage, and extra when rebranded83
disposal requirements.
Markets and applications
Markets and applications Multiple products that serve multiple
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) markets requires divided focus of
policies and favourable purchase policies biorefineries, though business can be more
of large brands and buyer, as result of robust
‘greening of society’ trend97; If priced higher, bio-based products should
Rising demand/market and offer better properties/ functionalities
promotional benefits for 'chemical-free' Difficult to enter existing markets due
products e.g. greener surfactants, and/or to competition, and for customers to change
‘biodegradable’ or ‘natural‘ products83 suppliers83
Increasing number of bio-based
applications83
The bio-economy offers the opportunity of
flexibility through a wider range of
products than the conventional
petrochemical processes98

2: Innovation Appetite for investment in ‘green’ Lack of investment (e.g. for pilots,
innovations83; in particular investments demos, large-scale production plants) 83
targeting the UN Sustainable Development Difficulty to attract finance for scale-ups
Goals (SDGs), as result of ‘greening of
society’ trend97
Widespread R&D activity83
EU, national and regional support for
RD&D, and increasingly for scale-up

3: Economy Volatile oil/petrochemical prices Volatile oil/petrochemical prices

Political instability of oil-producing Higher cost level in EU
countries
Because a significant portion of bio-based
feedstocks come from the agricultural
sector, the bio-economy offers a significant
opportunity to grow and protect jobs and
thereby stimulate economic
development in rural farming
communities98
Presence of skilled workforce and physical
infrastructure in EU83
Appetite for investment in bio-based
production83
The bio-economy builds resilience in
supply chains by being based on a
distributed and decentralised model in
contrast to vertically integrated, centralised
fossil-based industries98

79
 4: Feedstock Diverse feedstock use, which creates Increased land use83
flexibility in the supply chain83 (Perceived) biomass availability in case of
Industry crops can be grown on surplus full rollout83
land. Some crops can be grown on Biomass prices: high/ fluctuating /
abandoned or degraded land, contributing to increasing83
the rehabilitation of these areas98 Highly dependency on a single type of
Especially forests have many other feedstock83
functions besides feedstock supply, such Perceived competition with food and/or
as biodiversity, recreation, cultural values energy supply83
and carbon storage105 land diverted from food production151
Widespread and growing availability of
source-separated bio-waste106

5: Climate The bioeconomy is at the centre of Broader consideration of products

change and sustainable development strategies sustainability; less exclusive focus on
environment worldwide and contributes to many SDGs107 using bio-based materials
Need to reduce fossil dependence83 A problem of bio-based products in general
Beyond being produced from renewable is the lack of evidence of their specific
resources, bio-based products offer one or environmental, social and economic
more/all of the following environmental sustainability
benefits, namely Biodegradability, Low Environmental sustainability may be proven
ecotoxicity, Lower GHG emissions, through a life cycle assessment (LCA). This
Recyclability, Low human toxicity108 has to be carried out at the product level,
making this an expensive instrument in
case of many products96
Environmental sustainability requirements
are more stringent for bio-based than for
fossil products.
In particular for SMEs, providing formal
proof of environmental
sustainability/superiority (through LCA,
product standard, ecolabel, etc.) is very
costly
Recycling issues (bio-plastics production
and plastic recycling sectors are not in
harmony) 83

6: Citizen and 1. Growing consumer preference for Bio-based is a poor marketing term83
Society green products, as result of ‘greening of There is low public awareness of
society’ trend98 biorefinery products
2. Growing awareness of the impact of Terminology (e.g. “bio-based”,
fossil products on the environment83 “biodegradable”) used can be confusing for
3. People assume that bio-based consumers: e.g. “biolubricant” can refer to
production is aimed at finding products derived from renewable sources or
environmentally friendlier solutions. to a biodegradable lubricant derived from
This results in a positive attitude petroleum-based sources); less confusing
towards bio-based products terms are not picked up;
4. An increase in personal health Some customers associate “bio-based” with
concerns; people are particularly having a lower quality and/or a higher
concerned what they wear on the body price
and/or apply to the body (skin-contact For producers and consumers (and certain
products) 110 environmental policy makers) alike, being
5. Bio-based products can contribute to bio-based is (in itself) not or no longer a
occupational health and safety (e.g. fully convincing sale argument
the use of bio-based lubricants some stakeholders are casting doubt on all
produces a cleaner, less toxic working use of biomass, and/or on wood
environment and not cause skin harvesting
problems for those working with
engines and hydraulic systems); They
offer increased employee safety due to
higher flashpoints, constant viscosity
and less oil mist and vapour emissions
6. Preference for natural fibres for
applications with skin contact83
7. Promotional benefits (e.g. of
marketing cosmetics as 'natural')96

151
National geographic. What you need to know about plant-based plastics. 2018.
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/2018/11/are-bioplastics-made-from-plants-better-for-
environment-ocean-plastic/

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7: Policy and Forthcoming EU legislation, such as the There is no financial support for chemical
regulation European Green Deal and the and material products from biorefineries,
Sustainable Finance Taxonomy is nor is there generic financial support for
expected to give biorefinery products a investments yet.
boost EU legislation supporting biomass use for
Several current EU regulations, such as the biofuels and energy (e.g. RED II) result in a
Circular Economy Package, the updated lack of level playing field for other
Waste Framework Directive, and the chemical/material biorefinery products114
updated Packaging and Packaging For many bio-based products there are no
Waste Directive include measures that are relevant product standards; / eco-labels;
beneficial for biorefineries. many existing ones were developed without
Several EU regulations such as Sustainable keeping bio-based options in mind
Finance Taxonomy, and the Deforestation in The REACH requirement to register new
iterative contain measures that could be chemical substances manufactured or
beneficial when enacted upon further. imported in quantities of 1 tonne or more
For some bio-based products relevant per year is a significant barrier for
standards and workable eco-labels innovative biorefinery products Registration
exists (e. g for bio-based lubricants, and procedures are both time consuming and
for compostable bioplastics) costly
Several other EU regulations, such as the
Common Agriculture policy, Common
Customs Tariffs, GMO regulations, the
EPBD and LULUCF contain aspects that can
hinder biorefineries products
Need for stable and long-term regulations,
providing certainty for investors95.

2.4.2 PRIORITISATION GENERAL DRIVERS AND BARRIERS

To develop a prioritisation of the General Drivers and Barriers derived in the previous
paragraphs, a stakeholder workshop was held to define these. In this workshop, held on 7
October 2020, the General Barriers and Drivers were presented and ranked, using an on-
line voting tool (Mentimeter). Added to the seven categories, was an extra category to
account for technical barriers.

31 External stakeholders took part in the workshop. An additional 13 people participated,

who were either part of the Consortium (12) or representative of the principal (the EU)
(1). In advance it was agreed that consortium member would also vote, because of their
expertise. Not all participants voted on all subjects.

The voting was carried out as follows:

1. Firstly, for every category all drivers were presented after which stakeholders were
requested to vote on 2 or 3 options (dependent on the number of options
presented). The same was done for the barriers for every category

2. In a second segment – as part of the same workshop – the stakeholders were asked
to rank – from the top choices of each category – the most important drivers. The
same was done with the barriers

Results are shown in Figure 17. and Figure 18 In these figures the results of the votes are
shown as percentages.

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 Figure 17. Ranking of the General Drivers for biorefineries

Figure 18. Ranking of the General Barriers for biorefineries

Workshop participants expected that the Green Deal will give a significant boost for
biorefineries. Government support for RD&D and scale-up is also considered very
important, as is the need to reduce fossil dependency.

Top barriers are considered to be the costs, and – as a second cost related item – that
consumers are not willing to pay more for bio-based. A barrier that cannot be remedied by
(government or other) action, is the complex nature of biomass. Proof of sustainability
issues, and perceived competition with food is also deemed important, which fits with the
information gathered in the stakeholder interviews, and the information gathered from
various literature sources.

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3 WP 3 – AVAILABLE AND EMERGING BIOREFINERY PATHWAYS AND RD&I
NEEDS

This section includes a chapter of available and emerging technologies and RD&I needs
(WP 3). It was led by WUR.

3.1 Introduction

In this Work Package 3 (WP 3), available and emerging biorefinery technologies and
pathways will be identified and described in line with the Biorefinery Classification System
developed in WP 1 and linking with the WP 4 Biorefinery Database with a focus on chemical
and material products. It is expected that chemicals and materials focused biorefineries
will compete with fossil-based pathways for producing equal, similar, functionally
comparable or dedicated chemicals and materials. Technical feasibility of the substitution
at the level of chemicals, materials or functional roles need to be taken into account. So,
understanding the advantages and disadvantages of biorefinery pathways relative to these
fossil-based pathways is important in understanding their prospects and their needs.

Technical and non-technical barriers affecting the biomass-to-products value chains have
to be tackled to achieve a successful market deployment of biorefineries in a European
Circular Bioeconomy and in line with the EU policy objectives agreed for 2030 and 2050.
Amongst others, they strive for an effective utilisation of residues and waste for climate-
neutral circular products and implementation of strategies on Biodiversity and Farm to Fork
for 2030. This includes stepping up actions to avoid or minimize, products associated with
deforestation or forest degradation to be placed on the market. The deforestation may
relate to several food-based feedstocks such as palm oil, soya, sugar cane, cassava and
some other grains.

WP 2 focuses on identification of the non-technical barriers, whereas in this WP 3 the

technical barriers (as well as opportunities) are identified. This WP 3 will also deal with the
identification of the main research, development and innovation (R&D&I) needs to address
the technical and non-technical barriers and opportunities that influence biorefinery market
deployment.

3.2 Aim and objectives

The aim of WP 3 is to assess available and emerging biorefinery technologies and

pathways, compare them with competing pathways (e.g. fossil and CO2 based), and
identify technical barriers and research, development and innovation needs for the
successful market deployment of biorefineries. Specific objectives are:

• to identify and describe available and emerging biorefinery technologies and pathways;

• to identify alternative/competing pathways and to qualitatively assess key advantages

and disadvantages of biorefinery pathways compared to alternative/competing
pathways;

• to identify technical barriers and research actions to overcome these barriers for market
deployment of biorefineries;

• to identify major research, development and innovation needs for biorefineries to

overcome technical and non-technical barriers to become competitive with alternative
fossil-based and sustainable pathways for the production of chemicals and materials.

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3.3 Approach

This WP 3 begins by identifying and describing available and emerging biorefinery

technologies and pathways in line with the Biorefinery Classification System developed in
WP 1. Together with WP 4 (biorefinery database) commercial examples for these pathways
are identified. Emerging pathways that include demos, pilots and main applied R&D&I
initiatives are identified through literature review and based on the extensive knowledge
of the project partners in the area as well as information from the SAG and stakeholder
workshops.

Competing pathways for the production of chemicals and materials are identified that
include using fossil and CO2 as feedstock. A high-level assessment of the advantages and
disadvantages of biorefinery pathways relative to the alternative pathways is performed.

Several criteria are used, such as: sustainability of biomass feedstock, climate-neutrality
and circularity of products, (potential) product performance, cost competitiveness, and
social acceptance, as far as these could be extracted from existing literature (i.e. the
project is not including own system modelling/assessment activities).

WP 3 further analyses the technical barriers hindering the deployment of biorefineries and
uses them and the non-technical barriers identified in WP 2 to identify R&D&I needs that
could address both types of barriers. In 2011 the EU StarColibri project delivered a
Biorefinery Vision Document, and a Biorefinery Joint Strategic Research Roadmap for
biorefineries in the EU.152,153 The information from the StarColibri project is taken as a
starting point for the analysis. Detailed technical barriers and R&D&I needs assessments
from other projects and literature are used. These include outcomes/publications of major
EU-projects (H2020/BBI), and Strategic Research and Innovation Agendas of major
European, international and national organizations (i.e. ETIP Bioenergy, EERA Bioenergy,
Bio-based Industries Consortium (BIC)/BBI-JU, Europabio, IEA Bioenergy Task42, and
other that are relevant) that consider chemicals & materials driven biorefineries.

This WP 3 is accordingly broken down into four tasks:

1. Identification and description of available and emerging biorefinery pathways;

2. High-level assessment of the key advantages and disadvantages of biorefinery

pathways in the light of the EU policy goals and compared to alternative pathways;

3. Identification of technical barriers and opportunities for market deployment of

biorefineries;

4. Major research, development and innovation needs to overcome technical and non-
technical barriers to biorefinery market deployment.

3.4 Task 1 - Identification and description of available and emerging biorefinery

pathways

BIOREFINERY PATHWAY

A biorefinery pathway (see Figure 19 ) consists essentially of the pre-treatment and

preparation of the biomass, separation of biomass components into intermediates/
platforms (primary refining) and further conversion and processing of the intermediates

152
Luguel, C., Annevelink, EB., Burel, C. and Gosse, G. Joint European Biorefinery Vision for 2030. Star-COLIBRI
project. 2011.
153
Luguel, C., Annevelink, EB., Burel, C. and Gosse. G. European Biorefinery Joint Strategic Research Roadmap. Star-
COLIBRI project. 2011.

84
into more intermediate products and semi-finished or finished products (secondary
refining).

Figure 19. Biorefinery process chain

A biorefinery is composed of four structural elements: ‘Feedstocks’, ‘Platforms’,

‘Conversion processes’ and ‘Products’. These four elements are combined in a biorefinery
pathway (see Figure 2). The generic example of a biorefinery depicted here starts with a
feedstock, which is converted to one (or more) platform(s) from which chemical, material
and energy products are produced; whereas side-streams are used as (food/feed) co-
products. ‘Platforms’ are short-hand descriptions of important intermediates in
biorefineries, such as C6 sugars, oils, lignin etc. that serve as basis for many subsequent
products. Figure 20 also gives the legend which shows the different shapes used to
represent the four structural elements of a biorefinery pathway. Furthermore, colours are
used to differentiate between the different type of processes used in conversion and the
different types of products produced. For primary refining, green arrows are used in
connecting the elements and for secondary refining black arrows are used.

Figure 20. Schematic representation of a biorefinery pathway

85
APPROACH FOR IDENTIFYING THE BIOREFINERY PATHWAYS

As mentioned before, the classification system described in WP 1 is composed of four

structural elements: Feedstocks, Conversion Processes, Platforms and Products, each
featuring numerous sub-elements. This opens up many options for different biorefinery
pathways, all being composed of a variety of linked biorefinery technologies.

For identification of the pathways the most notable examples currently existing or
emerging have been selected where the focus is on chemical and material products in line
with the objectives of the project. It is seen that chemical and material-products can arise
from expansion/upgrading of conventional biorefineries by new secondary refining
processes (enhancing the effective use of residues and waste for new chemicals or
materials). There are also biorefineries specifically designed for the conversion of the
feedstock to chemical and/or material products.

The goal is to identify the pathways for bio-based chemical and/or material products with
their possible combination with energy, biofuels, food and feed products in a biorefinery
system. This was done by reviewing the biorefineries already existing today (linking to WP
4) as well as considering developments that are already in progress (at demo, pilot scale
or by applied research activities) by conducting a literature review. For this, apart from the
database of commercial biorefineries developed in WP 4, reports from the StarColibri
project83,84, a selection of IEA Bioenergy Task42 publications (reports and
papers154,155,156,157, country reports158 and factsheets159), Biorefineries Roadmap of the
German Federal Government160, ongoing BBI JU projects161 and selected publications by
nova-Institute162,163,164, were taken into consideration. From this review of the existing and
emerging facilities, the ones producing chemicals and materials were identified and they
were grouped in a number of umbrella of biorefinery pathways. So, the pathways do
not represent a specific biorefinery facility; there could be several initiatives using this
pathway or its variants in the world. Each of these umbrella biorefinery pathways
encompasses the different process variations of this pathway described in literature.

APPROACH FOR CATEGORIZING THE PATHWAYS

In order to categorize the pathways there are different approaches that can be used
focusing on different aspects:

• Feedstock (e.g. sugar crop biorefinery, grass biorefinery, straw biorefinery, algae
biorefinery, whole crop biorefinery, lignocellulosic feedstock biorefinery);

154
Jungmeier, G., Hingsamer, M. and van Ree, R. Biofuel-driven Biorefineries. IEA BioenergyTask42 Biorefining. 2013.
155
Bell, G., Schuck, S., Jungmeier, G., Wellisch, M., Felby, C., Jørgensen, H., .Spaeth, J. Sustainable and synergetic
processing of biomass into marketable food & feed ingredients, chemicals, materials and energy (fuels, power,
heat). IEA Bioenergy Task42 Biorefining. 2014.
156
Cherubini, F., Jungmeier, G., Wellisch, M., Willke, T., Skiadas, I., van Ree, R., de Jong, E. Toward a common
classification approach for biorefinery systems. Biofpr. 3 (5): 534–546. 2009.
157
Wenger, J., Stern, T., Schöggl, JP., van Ree, R., de Corato, U., de Bari, I., Bell, G., Stichnothe, H. Natural Fibres
and Fibre-based Materials in Biorefineries. IEA Bioenergy Task42 Biorefining. 2018.
158
IEA Bioenergy Task 42 Country Reports, http://task42.ieabioenergy.com/document-category/country-reports/
159
IEA Bioenergy Task42 Factsheets, http://task42.ieabioenergy.com/document-category/factsheets/
160
The Federal Government. Biorefineries Roadmap as part of the German Federal Government action plans for the
material and energetic utilisation of renewable raw materials. May 2012.
161
BBI JU projects, https://www.bbi-europe.eu/projects
162
De Beus, N., Carus, M., Barth, M. Carbon Footprint and Sustainability of Different Natural Fibres for Biocomposites
and Insulation Material - Study providing data for the automotive and insulation industry. nova-Institute. 2019.
163
Nova-Institut. Bio-based Building Blocks and Polymers in the World – Capacities, Production and Applications:
Status Quo and Trends towards 2020. 2015.
164
Piotrowski, S. et al. Sustainable Biomass Potential for Biofuels in Competition to Food, Feed, Bioenergy and
Industrial Material – a Global Analysis of Biomass Supply and Demand. 2015.

86
• Process (e.g. thermochemical biorefinery, biochemical biorefinery, liquid phase
catalytic processing biorefinery, combined thermo- and biochemical conversion
biorefinery);

• Platform (e.g. syngas platform biorefinery, C6 and/or C5 sugar-platform biorefinery,

lignin-platform biorefinery, vegetable oil or oleochemical platform biorefinery, biogas
platform biorefinery, two-platform biorefinery);

• Product (e.g. energy-driven biorefinery, material-driven biorefinery)

In accordance with the classification system described in WP 1 and classification approach

defined by IEA Bioenergy Task42, the platform is the central element of the system and
most important feature in specifying the type of biorefinery. Therefore, in this project the
platforms (intermediates) that arise from primary refining are used in defining and
distinguishing the biorefinery pathways. Each pathway can have as feedstock one or more
types of biomass. Different types of technological processes can be applied to convert the
biomass feedstocks into platforms, and to finally convert these platforms to a spectrum of
products. Therefore, the set of platforms produced from primary refining processes are
considered the distinguishing element for the pathways. It should be noted that in
secondary refining, meaning the further processing of platforms into products, additional
intermediates/platforms can arise. These downstream platforms will not be taken into the
naming of the biorefinery pathway as other variants could be possible from the primary
platforms to end-products.

HOW DO THE BIOREFINERY PATHWAYS EXPAND, EMERGE AND DEVELOP?

Two different approaches exist for the development of biorefineries: ‘bottom-up’ and ‘top-
down’83.

• If the biorefinery concerns the extension and/or upgrading of conventional biomass

processing facility (e.g. sugar, starch, oil and pulp mill), it is referred to as a
bottom-up approach. Here the aim is to achieve an expanded range of products
and/or an increased valorisation of biomass fractions through the connection of
additional processes and new technologies in an integrated way. An example is the
Roquette Lestrem biorefinery which was a simple starch mill that was gradually
developed, and the product spectrum increased to native and modified starches,
proteins, polyols, organic acids and specialty chemicals.

• If the biorefinery develops as part of new industrial value chains with newly
developed, highly integrated systems, it is referred to as top-down approach. It
typically considers specifically developed new processes to convert various biomass
fractions and zero-waste generation of a broad variety of products for different
markets. Systems for primary and secondary refining are specifically developed for
the conversion of the feedstock into a range of products. An example is the Biowert
refinery producing high-quality fibres from grass for biomaterials such as
composites. The integration of the anaerobic digestion process uses the remaining
organic juices to produce biogas which delivers electricity and heat. Organic
fertilizer is attained as a by-product.

The bottom-up approach is always a brownfield approach, i.e. an existing facility is

upgraded/extended to a biorefinery facility at the same site. The top-down approach can
be either a brownfield or greenfield approach. In the first case, a new separate biorefinery
(pathway) will be realized at the same site of an already existing facility where the new
biorefinery will take advantage of the already existing industrial infrastructure (biomass
supply, use of auxiliaries, use of downstream processing facilities) and or regulations/
permits. This potentially will reduce deployment time because of multiple factors, such as
lower overall investments required, shared facilities, existing environmental permits etc.

87
In the second case a new biorefinery pathway will realized from scratch, potentially
requiring higher investments, new permits etc., significantly increasing the time-to-
market. Examples of both cases can be found in the bioethanol sector. There are several
plans to build advanced lignocellulosic biorefineries at the same site of already existing
conventional ethanol plants using sugar/starch crops with the aim to use existing biomass
supply infrastructure, experienced personnel, existing auxiliaries, the ability to plug-in
existing waste water treatments and/or distillation facilities etc. On the other hand there
are also demo plants to produce advanced bioethanol realized at new stand-alone sites,
i.e. the greenfield approach, for example within the feedstock cultivation area.

Various biorefinery pathways can be synergistically combined for optimal business case
deployment from both an socio-economic and sustainable point-of-view. In the pulp &
paper sector both the bottom-up approach (i.e. expanding the downstream products
portfolio of conventional pulp mills) and top-down approach (i.e. valorising bark and forest
residues in parallel with new biorefinery concepts at the same site) are used to create the
highest value from wood and the related forestry residues. This synergistic combination
provides an attractive business case from both an socio-economic and environmental point
of view.

Development and/or expansion of a biorefinery pathway usually proceeds incrementally. A

number of products can be expanded by separating and upgrading residues. Furthermore,
various biomass conversion technologies can be integrated optimising the valorisation of
feedstock into range of products co-producing combination of chemicals, materials, fuels,
energy, food and feed. The integrated biorefineries offer possibilities to completely new
chemicals and materials to be produced.

Furthermore, in accordance with the recent policy ambitions, transition in biorefinery

developments could take place in the near future. This considers a transition from a more
energy focus towards more chemicals and materials focus in biorefineries. Currently, the
European biorefineries are mostly energy-driven owing to the existing biofuel-related policy
targets supporting the use of biomass for biofuels production. No such directive exists yet
for the use of biomass for chemicals/materials. But, the principles of the circular economy
and of the waste hierarchy (Directive 2008/98/EC, Article 4) favour the use as a material
over energy use. One of the actions in the Circular Economy Action Plan is the development
of the Sustainable Products Policy legal framework that will make use of the Products’
Environmental Footprint (PEF).

With the increased electrification of the transport sector (mainly in road and rail transport),
on the longer-term, biofuel demand may decline. For the short-term potential declining
biofuel use in road/rail transport will be compensated for by an increased demand for
advanced biofuels in the heavy duty road, aviation and shipping transport sectors. On the
mid/longer-term some of the advanced biofuel biorefining infrastructures potentially can
be used to produce chemicals/materials instead of fuels. The transition from a fuel to
chemicals focus could for example be achieved in existing biorefineries by diverting
bioethanol from fuel use towards chemical use, and the use of C6 sugars for the production
of other chemicals through chemical conversion or fermentation. Similarly, also using fatty
acid methyl esters for production of fatty alcohols for example in the production of
surfactants instead of using FAME as biodiesel fuel. It has to be noted that the biofuel
sector is a factor larger than the chemicals sector, so only a portion of existing biofuel
assets could transition to focusing on chemicals and materials. This leaves enough capacity
to meet the future market requests for biofuels in aviation and shipping transport sectors.

The second transition with respect to recent policy ambitions is the transition towards use
of residues and waste materials as feedstock and limiting the use of food crops as feedstock
in biorefineries. The sustainability of the biomass used in biorefineries is an important
consideration. This transition is already being supported in the production of fuels from
biomass. There is a dedicated target for advanced biofuels produced from feedstocks listed
in Part A of Annex IX of the Renewable Energy Directive (EU/2018/2011). Furthermore,
there is a cap for fuels produced from food and feed crops for which a significant expansion

88
of the production area into land with high-carbon stock is observed. The ILUC Directive
(EU/2015/1513) further limits the use of food-based biofuels.

Expansion in agricultural production, results in adverse direct and indirect changes to land
use which leads to deforestation and has a negative climate and biodiversity impacts. The
“food first” principle, which considers that the food and feed crops production must be first
directed towards meeting the world’s food and nutritional needs before supplying raw
materials for energy or industrial purposes, is a way to answer to these potential adverse
effects. The use of food crops as a feedstock for biorefineries should not decrease the
availability of food crops for food production. As part of the Biodiversity for 2030 Strategy
and Farm to Fork Strategy, the Commission will present in 2021 a legislative proposal and
other measures to avoid or minimise products associated with deforestation or forest
degradation.

OVERVIEW OF THE IDENTIFIED BIOREFINERY PATHWAYS

In the sections below the identified biorefinery pathways are described divided into two
categories, i.e. bottom-up and top-down, as defined above.

The naming of the pathways includes platforms (intermediates) that arise from primary
refining and the feedstocks used: A <number of> platform biorefinery (<names
specific platforms from primary refining>) using <names specific feedstocks>.
The downstream platforms and name of the products are not included into the naming of
the biorefinery pathway as several variants are possible from the primary platforms to end-
products for each biorefinery pathway.

For each biorefinery pathway, first a description is provided, followed by information in

general terms regarding the four elements of the classification system: ‘Feedstocks’,
‘Platforms’, ‘Conversion processes’ and ‘Products’. There are several process variants for
all the biorefinery pathways regarding secondary refining and how co-products and residual
materials are utilized. These process variants existing for each pathway are then described.
The platforms are marked red and the products are made bold in the description of these
process variants. Examples of commercial plants (linking to WP 4 Biorefinery Database)
and examples of demos, pilots and major applied research activities (based on literature
review) in relation to the identified biorefinery pathways are provided. It is important to
note that the aim is not to provide a database for all the initiatives available for each
pathway, but to provide illustrative examples for the different process variants in each
pathway.

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 Table 15. Overview of the biorefinery pathways

Name Feedstocks Conversion Processes Platforms Products

A One platform (C6 sugars) biorefinery using Sugar crops Extraction, fermentation, (chemical C6 sugars Chemicals, polymers, food, animal feed, ethanol
sugar crops conversions) (building block or fuel), CO2, power and heat

B One platform (starch) biorefinery using starch Starch crops Extraction, fermentation, Starch Chemicals, (modified) starches, polymers, food,
crops (hydrolysis, chemical conversions) animal feed, ethanol (building block or fuel) and CO2
Bottom-up approach

C One platform (oil) biorefinery using oil crops, Oil crops, waste/residue Pressing, transesterification, Oil Chemicals (fatty acids, fatty alcohols, glycerol),
wastes and residues fats, oil and greasesa (hydrolysis, chemical conversions) food, animal feed, fuels (biodiesel and renewable
diesel)

D Two-platform (pulp and spent liquor) biorefinery Lignocellulosic crop, Mechanical processing, pulping, Pulp, spent Materials (pulp and paper, specialty fibres),
using wood wood/forestry, residues combustion, (separation, liquor chemicals (turpentine, tall oil, acetic acid, furfural,
from agriculture and extraction, gasification) ethanol, methanol, vanillin), lignin, power and heat
forestry

E Three platform (C5 sugars, C6 sugars and Green biomassb Pre-treatment, hydrolysis, C5 sugars, Chemicals, lignin products (materials, aromatics,
lignin) biorefinery using lignocellulosic biomass fermentation, combustion, C6 sugars, pyrolytic liquid, syngas), ethanol (building block or
(thermo-/ lignin fuel), power and heat
chemical conversions)

F Two-platform (organic fibres and organic juice) Aquatic biomass Pressing, fibre separation, Organic Materials, chemicals (lactic acid, amino acid),
biorefinery using green biomass anaerobic digestion, combustion, fibres, animal feed, organic fertilizer, fuels (biomethane,
(upgrading, separation) organic juice ethanol), power and heat

G Two-platform (oil and biogas) biorefinery using Natural fibres (e.g. Extraction, anaerobic digestion, Oil, biogas Chemicals (fatty acids, fatty alcohols, glycerol),
aquatic biomass hemp, flax)b combustion, esterification, nutraceuticals, food, organic fertilizer, biodiesel,
(hydrolysis, chemical conversions) power and heat

H Two-platform (organic fibres and oil) biorefinery Lignocellulosic Fibre separation, extraction, Organic Materials, chemicals (fatty acids, fatty alcohols,
using natural fibres biomassc, MSW (chemical conversions) fibres, oil glycerol), nutraceuticals, cannabinoids, food and
biodiesel

I One platform (syngas) biorefinery using Lignocellulosic biomassc Pretreatment, gasification, gas Syngas Chemicals (methanol, hydrogen, olefins), waxes and
lignocellulosic biomass and municipal solid waste conditioning, chemical conversions fuels (F-T biofuels, gasoline, LNG, mixed alcohols)

J Two platform (pyrolytic liquid and biochar) Lignocellulosic Pyrolysis, separation, combustion, Pyrolytic Pyrolysis oil (for materials, chemicals, food
Top-down approach

biorefinery using lignocellulosic biomass biomassc, organic (gasification, cracking, extraction) liquid, flavourings, syngas, biofuels), biochar, power and
residues, aquatic biochar heat
biomass

K One platform (bio-crude) biorefinery using Lignocellulosic crop, Hydrothermal liquefaction, Bio-crude Chemicals and fuels
lignocellulosic, aquatic biomass, organic residues wood/forestry, residues upgrading
from agriculture and
forestry

a. Waste/residue fats, oils and greases belong to category "Other organic residues"
b. Green biomass and Natural fibres belong to category "Lignocellulosic from croplands and grasslands“
c. Lignocellulosic biomass includes Lignocellulosic from croplands, wood/forestry and residues from agriculture and forestry

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BIOREFINERY PATHWAYS FOLLOWING BOTTOM-UP APPROACH

The biorefinery pathways following the bottom-up approach concern the extension and/or
upgrading of conventional existing industries/facilities of a sugar mill, starch mill, oil mill
or paper mill.

A. One platform (C6 sugars) biorefinery using sugar crops

Description: This pathway uses sugar crops such as sugarcane and sugar beet as feedstock
and during primary refining sucrose (C6 sugars) is extracted from them. Thus, C6 sugars
constitute the platform for this biorefinery pathway. In secondary refining the C6 sugars
are then typically used as fermentation raw material for bioethanol synthesis. Bioethanol
can be used as a fuel or used as a chemical building block to produce other chemicals like
bioethylene. Furthermore, there is diversification of products from C6 sugars towards other
chemicals produced through fermentation and/or chemical conversions. These chemical
products can be used as chemical intermediates for further processing into finished
products, such as fine chemicals and bioplastics. Figure 21 illustrates how the C6 sugars
(glucose) can be used in the synthesis of many chemicals and plastics. It also shows that
ethanol serves as a platform chemical that can be used for further synthesis of other
chemicals and bioplastics.

There are by-products produced during primary refining (i.e. molasses, sugarcane
bagasse, sugar beet pulp). Molasses are mostly used for feed or utilized as fermentation
raw material. Sugarcane bagasse is used mostly for internal energy purposes whereas
sugar beet pulp is mostly used as animal feed.

Fermentation during secondary refining also results in by-products of vinasse and in fuel
oils. The fuel oils separated during bioethanol purification are used as raw material for the
chemical industry for example in obtaining esters. Vinasse is used for animal feed and
fertirrigation, i.e. utilizing it as a liquid fertilizer for crops. It can also be used for biogas
production through anaerobic digestion where the by-product digestate after crystallisation
of struvite finds use as a fertilizer. The biogas can be used to produce heat and electricity
in a combined heat and power (CHP) plant or upgraded and fed into the natural gas system
or used as biofuel. Also, the by-product carbon dioxide generated during the fermentation
process can be conditioned and attained as an additional value stream which can be used
by the food and beverage industry. Moreover, using carbon dioxide as a raw material for
chemicals and plastics using renewable energy is increasingly researched.

Feedstock: Sugar crops such as sugarcane and sugar beet

Platform: C6 sugars, (biogas)

Processes: Extraction, fermentation, (chemical conversions, combustion, anaerobic

digestion, conditioning)

Products: Chemicals, polymers, food, animal feed ethanol (building block or fuel), CO2,
power and heat

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 Figure 21.Illustration of the diversity of bio-based plastics and their chemical pathways from sugars. Source:

adapted from nova-Institut 2015165

Figure 22 provides a schematic representation of the One platform (C6 sugars) biorefinery
pathway using sugar crops showing the different process variants. Because the side
streams arising from primary refining of sugar beet and sugar cane are valorised in
different ways, two separate schemes are provided for each in this pathway.

165
Nova-Institut. Bio-based Building Blocks and Polymers in the World – Capacities, Production and Applications:
Status Quo and Trends towards 2020. 2015

92
Figure 22. One platform (C6 sugars) biorefinery pathway, using sugar beet (top) and from sugar cane (bottom)

93
Examples for the different process variants and their development status:

Process variants 1 and 2 are demonstrated at commercial scale and several biorefinery
examples exist for the production of bioethanol. The vast majority of bioethanol is used for
transportation fuels but as explained above bioethanol also serves as a platform chemical.
Therefore, examples of bioethanol producing biorefineries are provided below based on
process variants 1 and 2. The bioethanol produced currently is used for fuel, but this
product can easily be diverted for chemicals/plastics production. Increasing amounts of
bioethanol are being used commercially for the production of bio-based ethylene and
subsequent derivatives such as ethylene oxide and mono ethylene glycol (MEG). For
process variant 3, other commercially available chemicals are lactic acid by fermentation
and sorbitol by chemical transformation. There are also materials being produced
commercially from these chemicals: polyethylene from ethylene, polylactic acid from lactic
acidic and bio-based polyethylene terephthalate (PET) using bio-MEG.

There are also various research activities to bring new chemicals into the market produced
from sugars, such as adipic acid by biochemical conversion and a direct route to MEG by
chemical conversion.166 Carbon dioxide is attained as a co-product (process variant 4)
commercially. It currently finds use in the beverages industry and in greenhouses;
however, carbon dioxide is increasingly researched as a precursor for variety of
chemicals.167 Extraction of valuable ingredients from sugar beet pulp, concerning process
variant 5, is being researched at pilot scale. The alternative use of vinasse for biogas
production through anaerobic digestion (process variant 6) is increasingly gaining interest
at commercial facilities.

Table 16. Examples of commercial, demo, pilot biorefining facilities for biorefinery pathway A

Facility Description Feedstoc Products Process

k variants

Sudzucker AG CropEnergies in Zeitz processes sugar syrups from Sugar Bioethanol, 1, 4

& CropEnergies sugar beet coming from SudZucker in immediate beet (+ animal
Bioethanol vicinity. Alternatively, different cereals such as starch feed,
GmbH, Zeitz, wheat, maize, barley (starch crops) can be crops) carbon
Germany processed. All raw materials are fully utilized in dioxide,
168
producing animal feed products. Furthermore, CO2 electricity
produced in the fermentation process is captured and heat
and purified. Research is underway to convert it to
mono- and dicarboxylic acids using organisms. The
facility has its own cogeneration unit that provides
more than its own requirements and feeds excess
electricity to the grid.

Braskem, Brazilian ethanol produced from sugar cane is Sugar Ethylene, 3

Brazil 169 chemically converted into ethylene. The ethylene cane polyethylen
then goes through polymerization to produce e
polyethylene.

India Glycol, The plant produces ethylene glycols — Sugar Ethylene 3

India 170 monoethylene glycol (MEG), diethylene glycol cane glycols
(DEG) and triethylene glycol (TEG) through (MEG, DEG,
several steps of chemical conversion from TEG)
sugarcane derived ethanol. MEG, the largest
volume glycol, is used for the polyester fibre, yarn,
film and PET resin industries. MEG is co-
polymerised with terephthalic acid to produce
polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Coca Cola and
Danone are using this partially bio-based PET for
bottling products.

166
De Jong, E., Stichnothe, H., Bell, G., Jorgensen, H., Bio-Based Chemicals a 2020 Update, IEA Bioenergy Task42
Biorefining. 2020.
167
Dommermuth, B., Raschka, A. Plastics made from CO2. Bioplastics Magazine, 06/15, vol. 10. 2015.
168
CropEnergieshttps://www.cropenergies.com/en/Unternehmen/Standorte/Zeitz/
169
Braskem, http://plasticoverde.braskem.com.br/site.aspx/Im-greenTM-Polyethylene
170
India Glycol, https://www.indiaglycols.com/product_groups/monoethylene_glycol.htm

94
 Corbion & C6 sugars from sugarcane are fermented to Sugar Lactic acid, 3
Total-Corbion produce lactic acid by Corbion, which in turn is cane Polylactic
PLA, Thailand converted to lactide monomers and polylactic acid acid,
171
at Total Corbion PLA located at the same site. Lactide
monomers

Cosun, In order to increase the value of its side stream Sugar Microcellulo 5
172
Netherlands sugar beet pulp from sugar production from sugar beet se fibres,
beet, Cosun developed multiple extraction arabinose
techniques to isolate valuable products: and
Microcellulose fibres, arabinose and galacturonic galacturonic
acid can be isolated as high value product. BBI-JU acid
Demonstration project
173
Covestro The newly developed process uses a Raw Aniline 3
microorganism as a catalyst to first convert the sugar
industrial sugar into a precursor. The aniline is
then produced by means of chemical catalysis in a
second step. Proof of principle has been done and
they are planning on scaling up.

B. One platform (starch) biorefinery using starch crops

Description: This biorefinery pathway uses starch crops such as cereals (e.g. corn and
wheat) and potatoes as feedstock, and with primary refining (native) starch is extracted
from them. Thus, starch constitutes the platform for this biorefinery. In secondary refining
the native starch can be used to produce bioethanol following saccharification and
fermentation. It can alternatively be hydrolysed into C6 sugars which can be used as
precursor to produce chemicals through fermentation and/or chemical conversions. These
chemical products can be used as chemical intermediates for further processing into
finished products as described also in pathway A. Native starch can also be chemically or
physically modified for the production of modified starches which find use in food, paper,
textile and cosmetics industry. Starch also finds use in producing bioplastics (starch
blends).

There are by-products arising from starch extraction that contain fibres and proteins; these
are used as animal feed. These are gluten and bran from wheat; germ, gluten feed and
gluten meal from corn; and protein meal and protamylase (which can be used as fertilizer)
from potato. Corn oil from corn is used in the food industry.

Bioethanol fermentation delivers as by-product so-called dried distillers grains with

solubles (DDGS) which is used as animal feed.

Feedstock: Starch crops such as cereals (e.g. corn and wheat) and potatoes

Platform: Starch, (C6 sugars)

Processes: Starch extraction, fermentation, hydrolysis, chemical or physical modifications

Products: Chemicals, (modified) starches, polymers, food, animal feed, ethanol (building
block or fuel) and CO2 Figure 23 provides a schematic representation of the One platform
(starch) biorefinery pathway using starch crops showing the different process variants.

171
Total-Corbion PLA, https://www.total-corbion.com/
172
Pulp2Value, http://pulp2value.eu/
173
Covestro, https://www.covestro.com/en/sustainability/lighthouse-projects/bio-anilin

95
Figure 23. One platform (starch) biorefinery pathway using starch crops

96
Examples for the different process variants and their development status:

All the process variants are demonstrated at commercial scale. Examples are provided in
Table 17.

Table 17. Examples of commercial biorefining facilities for biorefinery pathway B.

Facility Description Feedstock Products Process

variants

Cargill, Krefeld, Production of high-quality starches and Corn Native and modified 1, 3, 4
Germany 174 sweeteners from the raw material maize starches, sorbitol,
for the food and technical industries. sweeteners, animal feed

Roquette, Produces a multitude of products from Corn, Native and modified 1, 3, 4, 6

Lestrem, starch crops including native and modified wheat starches, polyols,
France175 starches, proteins, polyols, organic acids proteins, sweeteners,
and specialty chemicals following chemical specialty food/feed
and/or biochemical processes. products, pharmaceutical
ingredients

Novamont, Corn starch is used as feedstock in Corn Starch bioplastics 4

176
Terni, Italy production of biodegradable and
compostable bioplastics (MATER-BI)

Bioamber, Production of succinic acid from wheat Wheat Succinic acid 4

France177 derived glucose

Novamont, Using direct sugars fermentation route Corn 1,4-butanediol 4

178
Adria, Italy developed and licensed by Genomatica to
produce 1,4-butanediol (MATER-BIOTECH).
Sugars produced from corn are supplied
from Cargill.

Cargill + At Cargill corn is processed into sugars are Corn Native and modified 1, 2, 3, 4
Natureworks, further fermented to produce ethanol and starches, corn oil,
Blair, USA179 lactic acid. Furthermore, corn oil and polyols, sweeteners,
animal feed are attained as side-products. animal feed, bioethanol,
Lactic acid is further converted to lactic acid, PLA
polylactic acid (PLA) at Natureworks that is
used in biodegradable plastic applications.

C. One platform (oil) biorefinery using oil crops, wastes and residues

Description: This pathway uses oil crops. Oil can be attained from oil seeds, such as:
rapeseed, soybeans, sunflower seeds, and from fruits, such as: oil palm, coconut and
olives. The oils are separated by pressing in primary refining. Alternatively, oil can be
attained from waste/residues fats, oils and greases. Oil constitutes the platform for this
biorefinery. Meal extract or presscake is attained as by-product from oil pressing. They are
used as animal feed.

In secondary refining, oil is typically converted to fatty acid methyl esters (FAME, biodiesel)
and glycerol by transesterification. Oil also serves as a valuable starting material for the
oleochemical industry and the production of lubricants. Alternatively, via hydrolysis,
cleavage of oil results in fatty acids and glycerol. Fatty acids, after chemical modifications
can find application in cosmetics, surfactants, dyes among other products. The FAME can
be used to produce fatty alcohols through catalytic hydrogenation. Commonly the fatty
alcohols are ethoxylated (i.e. reacted with ethylene oxide) to produce surfactants. The
ethylene oxide for this can be derived from dehydration of bioethanol from pathways A and
B to produce 100% bio-based surfactants. This has been done commercially by Croda in

174
Cargill, Krefel biorefinery, https://www.cargill.de/en/krefeld-location
175
Roquette, https://www.roquette.com/
176
Novamont, MATER-BI, https://novamont.it/eng/mater-bi
177
Bioamber, https://www.a-r-d.fr/en/bioamber
178
Novamont, MATER-BIOTECH, https://www.novamont.com/public/zip/factsheet_materbiotech_EN_web.pdf
179
Natureworks, Ingeo, https://www.natureworksllc.com/What-is-Ingeo/How-Ingeo-is-Made

97
the US.180 Fatty alcohols can also be further processed into fatty amines through
hydrogenation of fatty nitriles.

The by-product crude glycerol attained from biodiesel production or from hydrolysis, has a
range of applications. It can be further processed into pharmaceutical grade glycerol and
via chemical reactions into range of specialty chemicals.

Feedstock: Oil crops such as rapeseed, soybean, sunflower seeds, palm, and waste/residue
fats, oil and greases

Platform: Oil

Processes: Oil pressing, transesterification, (hydrolysis, chemical conversions)

Products: Chemicals (fatty acids, fatty alcohols, glycerol), food, animal feed, fuels
(biodiesel and renewable diesel)

Figure 24. One platform (oil) biorefinery pathway using oil crops, wastes and residues

180
Croda, https://www.crodapersonalcare.com/en-gb/sustainability/sustainable-manufacturing/eco-plant

98
Examples for the different process variants and their development status:

Figure 24 provides a schematic representation of the One platform (oil) biorefinery pathway
using oil crops, waste and residues showing the different process variants.

Table 18. Examples of commercial biorefining facilities for biorefinery pathway C

Facility Description Feedstock Products Process

variants

Matrica Integration of chemical and biochemical Thistle Plasticizers for 2,3

Biorefinery, Italy process to produce chemicals using seed polymers, additives for
(Novamont and multiple feedstocks from local areas rubber, lubricants,
Versalis) 181 showing agro-industrial integration, glycerol, cosmetic
such as thistle low-input dry crop suited ingredients
to the Mediterranean climate and which
grows on wild, abandoned land

Croda182 Production of chemical intermediates by Oil crops, Oleochemicals 2

oleochemical biorefining for bio-based residual (Distilled and partly
polymers, lubricants, coatings, and oils hardened fatty acids,
personal care products Polymerised fatty
acids, Oleic acids,
isostearic acid, Stearic
fatty acids, glycerol)

KLK OLEO183 KLK OLEO process vide range of Palm oil Oleochemicals (fatty 2, 3, 4
oleochemicals used in diverse end-use acids, glycerol, fatty
applications, including home & personal alcohols and fatty
health care, cosmetics & toiletries, food, esters, sulphonated
flavours & fragrances, lubricants and methyl esters,
industrial chemicals surfactants and
phytonutrients)

D. Two-platform (pulp and spent liquor) biorefinery using wood

Description: Pathway D is based on existing pulping processes and innovations that are
directly linked to them to upgrade them into even more economically feasible and
sustainable biorefineries with a wider product portfolio.

This biorefinery pathway uses wood, most typically wood chips residues from saw mills and
thinning residues from forest management, as feedstock and with the pulping process the
two platforms pulp and spent liquor are produced. The two most typical pulping processes
are Kraft and sulphite pulping, but the use of ionic liquids is also under development for
speciality fibres for high quality textiles.184 The spent liquor from Kraft process is called
black liquor. Pulp can be used for papermaking and in the production of cellulose
derivatives. Dissolving pulp is produced from sulphite pulping or the Kraft process with an
acid prehydrolysis step to remove hemicelluloses. It finds application in textiles and
nonwoven products. Nanocrystalline cellulose can be produced through acid hydrolysis of
the pulp. It is possible to recover methanol from off-gas generated in pulp production.

Chemicals such as tall oil and turpentine as well as lignin can be recovered from black
liquor and spent liquor is usually combusted to generate heat and electricity that can be
used internally and externally. Tall oil and turpentine products find use for example in tires,
asphalt, perfumes, adhesives and paints. Tall oil can also be used in biodiesel production,
but it has nine times higher returns when used as chemical. Spent liquor can also be used

181
Matrica, http://www.matrica.it/default.asp?ver=en
182
Croda, https://www.croda.com/en-gb/products-and-markets/oleochemicals
183
KLK OLEO, https://www.klkoleo.com/
184
Hummel M. et al. Ionic Liquids for the Production of Man-Made Cellulosic Fibres: Opportunities and Challenges.
Rojas O. (eds) Cellulose Chemistry and Properties: Fibres, Nanocelluloses and Advanced Materials. Advances in
Polymer Science, vol 271. 2015.

99
for syngas production through gasification. See pathway I for many potential options for
syngas valorisation (Fischer-Tropsch synthesis to biofuels, conversion to hydrogen,
conversion to methanol and its derivatives such as methanol to olefins (MTO) route to
biochemicals and biofuels, or chemical conversion towards acetic acid or formaldehyde for
example). Alternatively, spent liquor can be processed to produce lignin oil which can be
further processed into chemicals. Lignosulphonates can be recovered from the spent
sulphite liquor which find most use in concrete and cement production. Furthermore,
vanillin can be produced from oxidation of lignosulfonates that find use in foods and
fragrances. Lignin can be extracted from black liquor and used for variety of chemical and
material applications as described in pathway E.

The pulping process generates a waste gas stream (steam stripper off-gas) from which
methanol can be recovered. Methanol can be used as a solvent, antifreeze, fuel or
precursor for further chemical products production.

Feedstock: Lignocellulosic wood/forestry

Platform: Pulp and spent liquor (heat and electricity, lignin, syngas)

Processes: Mechanical processing, pulping, combustion, papermaking, (separation,

extraction, chemical conversions, gasification)

Products: Materials (pulp and paper, specialty fibres), chemicals (turpentine, tall oil, acetic
acid, furfural, ethanol, methanol, vanillin), lignin, power and heat

Figure 25 representation of the Two-platform (pulp and spent liquor) biorefinery using
wood showing the different process variants. Because the Kraft pulping and sulphite
pulping result in different co-product possibilities, two separate schemes are provided for
this pathway D.

100
101
 Figure 25. Two-platform (pulp and spent liquor) biorefinery pathway using wood, for Kraft pulping (top) and for Sulphite pulping
(bottom)

Examples for the different process variants and their development status:

All the process variants are demonstrated at commercial scale. Examples are provided in
Table 19. Significant activities are taking place to widen the product portfolio and offer
innovative bio-based products.

Table 19. Examples of commercial facilities for biorefinery pathway D.

Facility Description Feedstock Products Process

variants

Lenzing, Wood is processed through sulphite pulping into Beech Dissolving pulp, 1, 2, 4
Austria185 dissolving wood pulp and marketed under several wood acetic acid,
brands for textile, nonwoven and industrial furfural, xylose,
applications. Through vapor condensate extraction lignosulfonate,
process acetic acid and furfural are separated from sodium sulphate,
the spent liquor. In cooperation with the company soda ash, heat
DuPont / Danisco, xylose is extracted on site from the and electricity
spent sulphite liquor (high-purity crystalline powder),
which is used as sweetener. Residual liquor is burnt
for energy.

Borregaard, The conversion of the old sulphite pulp mill to the Spruce Specialty 1, 2, 3,
Norway186 biorefinery of today has been accomplished through wood, cellulose, 4, 5
specialization and continuous innovation. By using the woodchips microfibrillated
different components of wood, Borregaard produces cellulose,
lignin products, speciality cellulose, vanillin, lignosulfonates,
bioethanol and microfibrillar cellulose for a variety of vanillin, ethanol,
applications in sectors such as agriculture and chemicals (e.g.
fisheries, construction, pharmaceuticals and acetic acid), heat
cosmetics, foodstuffs, batteries and biofuels. and electricity

185
Lenzing, https://www.lenzing.com/sustainability/production/biorefinery
186
Borregaard, https://www.borregaard.com/

102
 Stora Enso, Offers a variety of pulp grades to meet the demands Softwood Pulp, lignin, tall 1, 2, 4
Sunila Mill, of paper, board and tissue producers. Tall oil and oil, turpentine,
Finland187 turpentine are also produced. Largest Kraft lignin heat and
producer based on the LignoBoost™ technology, electricity
LineoTM product. A pilot facility is built for producing
bio-based carbon materials based on lignin for
example, to replace fossil-based components in
phenols for adhesives.

Domtar, In the Kraft pulp mills pulp is produced for a variety of Pine wood Pulp and paper, 1, 2, 3,
USA 188, end uses, many with specific technical requirements. fluff pulp, 4
CelluForce189 Their lignin separation facility at its Plymouth mill is specialty pulp,
the first commercial-scale installation of the nanocrystalline
LignoBoost™ technology. Tall oil and turpentine are cellulose, tall oil,
attained as byproducts. With its joint venture turpentine, lignin,
CelluForce producing nanocrystalline cellulose. They heat and
are also researching into converting sugars into electricity
chemicals and fuels.

Alberta Steam stripper off gas, a by-product stream from the Wood Pulp, methanol, 1, 6
Pacific chemical recovery area of the Kraft pulping process is (aspen, heat and
Forest converted into high purity methanol. Plant exports poplar, electricity
Industries, excess electricity to grid. spruce,
Canada190 pine)

Spinnova191 The pulp undergoes a mechanical treatment to Pulp (from Textile fibre 3
produce micro fibrillated cellulose. No chemical is used FSC
in producing the fibres and only by-product is water certified
which is recycled. The fibre is suitable as-is for wood)
spinning into yarn and knitting or weaving into fabric
or non-wovens elsewhere.

Kraton192 Crude tall oil, by-product from Kraft process, is Crude tall TOFA (SYLFAT™), 2
processed in Kraton CTO biorefinery into four different oil TOR
fractions: tall oil fatty acid (TOFA), tall oil rosin (TOR), (SYLVAROS™)
distilled tall oil (DTO) and pitch. These fractions can and DTO
be upgraded into bio-based chemicals and find (SYLVATAL™)
applications such as surfactants, alkyd resins, and
adhesives.

BIOREFINERY PATHWAYS FOLLOWING TOP-DOWN APPROACH

The biorefinery pathways following the top-down approach are specifically developed new
processes to convert various biomass fractions at zero-waste generation to a broad variety
of products for different markets. Typically, a type of biomass feedstock is used that is not
handled in conventional biomass facilities (e.g. aquatic biomass, green biomass, various
residues and wastes, like bark) with typically new technologies used in primary refining
(such as lignocellulosic biomass pretreatment technologies, pyrolysis, hydrothermal
upgrading or torrefaction). They can be built either near an existing bottom-up facility, to
make use of both the existing industrial infrastructure (i.e. feedstock handling, auxiliaries,
waste water treatment) and existing permits etc. (brown-field approach), or at a new site
(green-field approach).

Two types of top-down biorefinery pathways can be distinguished with the first focusing
on separating the biomass into its functional components and then utilization of all the
different functionalised components of the biomass into spectrum of products. The second
type focuses on direct thermochemical conversion of biomass followed by further refining
into end products.

187
Stora Enso, https://www.storaenso.com/en/about-stora-enso/stora-enso-locations/sunila-mill
188
Domtar, https://www.domtar.com/en/who-we-are/all-locations/plymouth-mill
189
CelluForce, https://www.celluforce.com/
190
Alberta Pacific Forest Industries Inc., https://alpac.ca/index.php/about/products
191
Spinnova, https://spinnova.com/our-method/fibre/
192
Kraton, https://kraton.com/innovation/talloil.php

103
Pathways based on separation of biomass into its components:

E. Three platform (C5 sugars, C6 sugars and lignin) biorefinery using lignocellulosic
biomass

Description: Pathway E considers full new innovative biorefinery approaches for

fractionation of lignocellulosic biomass to produce C5 & C6 sugars and lignin and
valorisation of these platforms, to a portfolio of bio-based products.

This pathway uses lignocellulosic biomass which includes a variety of sources as possible
feedstock, such as: lignocellulosic short rotation coppice (i.e. willow and poplar), other
wood, forestry residues, and agricultural residues (such as straw). The primary refining
includes a pre-treatment stage which can be done using variety of methods: physical (such
as milling), chemical (such as acid or alkali pretreatment, organosolv), physicochemical
(such as steam explosion, ammonia fibre explosion) and biological (fungal enzymes)
depending on the type of biomass feedstock and the targeted products. Typically, this is
followed by hydrolysis which results in C5&C6 sugars and lignin as the platforms. After
that, fermentation is carried out to produce bioethanol from C5&C6 sugars. Lignin can be
separated before fermentation or following fermentation from the remaining solution
depending on the type of pretreatment process.

Additional value can be created from lignin by utilising lignin’s macromolecular structure
in chemicals/materials, such as in production of asphalt, binder, adhesives, carbon fibres
and polymer composites. Alternatively, lignin can go through depolymerisation to produce
chemicals, such as aromatics. For this, different methods exist, such as: hydroprocessing,
liquid phase reforming, acid/base catalysis and oxidation.193 Additionally, thermochemical
conversions of lignin can also take place, like gasification to produce syngas or fast-
pyrolysis to produce pyrolytic liquid. In order to use the lignin for these material
applications, it is important to tailor the pretreatment process and achieve good separation
of the lignin from the cellulose and hemicellulose without changing it chemically or
physically. Lignin that is separated can be also combusted for heat and electricity.

Alternatively, based on the method of pretreatment and separation processes that follow,
the three fractions (cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin) can be isolated and processed
separately. The ratios of the three fractions of lignocellulose differ depending on the type
and origin of the biomass. The cellulose and hemicellulose fractions thereby can be
processed separately to different type of chemicals.

There is a possibility to integrate this biorefinery pathway into existing sugar/starch crop
refineries (pathway A or B) e.g. straw processing integrated into wheat processing facility.
This is also referred to as the whole crop biorefinery approach. There is also possibility to
integrate this pathway into existing pulp mill based biorefineries e.g. bark or forestry
residues processing to sugars, taking place on the same site as advanced pulp mill based
biorefineries of pathway D. With this brownfield approach, the new biorefinery takes
advantage of the already existing industrial infrastructure (biomass supply, use of
auxiliaries, use of downstream processing facilities) and or regulations/ permits.

Feedstock: Lignocellulosic crop, wood/forestry, residues from agriculture and forestry

Platform: C5 sugars, C6 sugars, lignin

Processes: Pre-treatment, hydrolysis, fermentation, combustion, (chemical and

thermochemical conversions)

Products: Chemicals, lignin products (materials, aromatics, pyrolytic liquid, syngas),

ethanol (building block or fuel), power and heat

193
Shutyser et al. Chem. Soc. Rev.47, 852. 2018.

104
Figure 26 provides a schematic representation of the Three platform (C5 sugars, C6 sugars
and lignin) biorefinery using lignocellulosic biomass showing the different process variants.

Figure 26. Three platform (C5 sugars, C6 sugars and lignin) biorefinery pathway using lignocellulosic biomass

Examples for the different process variants and their development status:

For the process variants 1 and 5 commercial scale examples exist as well as several demo
plants; process variant 2 is yet at demo stage. Examples of bioethanol producing
biorefineries are provided below based on process variant 1. The bioethanol produced
currently is used for fuel, but this platform chemical can easily be diverted for
chemicals/plastics production. Several initiatives exist for the process variant 3 to produce
chemicals. Process variant 4 concerning gasification and pyrolysis of lignin mostly in
research phase; bench and pilot scale experiments exist. Furthermore, several material
applications of lignin are researched and tested. Examples are provided in Table 20. First
commercial plants with a focus on advanced biofuels (cellulosic ethanol) are currently not
very successful; however, current developments to advanced chemicals (e.g. Avantium,
Biorizon) seem to be very promising.

105
 Table 20. Examples of commercial, demo, pilot biorefining facilities for biorefinery pathway E.

Facility Description Feedstock Products Process

variants

Fraunhaufer In the pilot plant wood-chips (beech, Wood C5 sugars, C6 2

CBP, Leuna, poplar) processed using organosolv sugars, Lignin
Germany194 process. Lignin and hemicellulose are
dissolved and separated from cellulose.
Thereafter lignin is precipitated and
separated from hemicellulose. The clean
lignin can be used for material
applications. The cellulose is hydrolysed
enzymatically to C6 sugars and
hemicellulose is hydrolysed to C5 sugars
which can be used for further processing.

Clariant, Clariant is currently building a first-of-its- Straw (other Bioethanol, 1, 5

Germany and kind commercial-scale flagship plant for agricultural heat and
Romania195,196 the production of cellulosic ethanol from residues) electricity.
agricultural residues such as straw based biogas
on the sunliquid® technology. The plant
with an annual capacity of 50,000 tons of
cellulosic ethanol will be located in the
southwestern part of Romania. This
technology was already demonstrated in
Straubing plant with a production capacity
of 1,000 t of ethanol per year. The process
involves simultaneous fermentation of
C5&C6 sugars to ethanol. Stillage is
utilized in a nearby biogas plant. Lignin is
used for process energy.

Avantium, Pilot plant operating, plans for flagship Wood, forest Glucose (for 1, 3
Netherlands197 underway. High acid/low temperature and agricultural MEG, FDCA,
hydrolysis to provide glucose for bio-based residues lactic acid),
chemical applications. The resulting C6 C5/C6 sugars,
sugars can be used in other routes studied Lignin
at Avantium to product bio-MEG and FDCA
(for PEF).

Cellulac, A combined chemical and process Straw, spent Lactic acid 3

Ireland198 engineering technology to produce lactic brewers grains,
acid by pretreatment and fermentation of DDGS
sugars from lignocellulosic biomass

Fibria Acquired the technology and pilot facility Wood Lignin, 2, 4

Innovations, of Lignol Innovations based on Alcell bioethanol,
Canada199 organosolv process. Research into acetic acid,
innovative material applications for lignin furfural,
cellulose

Biorizon, European project works on the Lignin Aromatics 4b

LignoValue200 development of technology for the
isolation, depolymerization and
fractionation of the lignin fraction of
biomass into bio-aromatics. In the
LignoValue pilot installation scale up
production of bio-aromatics will take place.

194
Fraunhofer Center for Chemical-Biotechnological Processes (CBP) in Leuna, Lignocellulose biorefinery,
https://www.cbp.fraunhofer.de/en/reference-projects/lignocellulose-biorefinery.html
195
Clariant Sunliquid®, https://www.clariant.com/en/Solutions/Products/2014/10/16/16/16/sunliquid
196
LIGNOFLAG project, https://www.lignoflag-project.eu/
197
Avantium Dawn TegnologyTM, https://www.avantium.com/technologies/dawn/
198
Cellulac, http://cellulac.co.uk/en/main/process-diagram/
199
Fibria Innovations, http://r2017.fibria.com.br/en/our-production-processes/research-and-development/
200
Biorizon, LignoValue Pilot project, https://www.biorizon.eu/news/lignovalue-pilot-launched-flanders-first-and-only-
pilot-line-of-bio-aromati/

106
F. Two-platform (organic fibres and organic juice) biorefinery using green biomass

Description: This pathway uses green nature-wet biomass such as grass as feedstock.
During primary refining, green biomass is pressed, and the liquid is separated. This results
in organic fibres and organic juice as the platforms for this biorefinery pathway.
The organic fibres are further processed into materials, such as boards, composites,
insultation material and fibre reinforced polymers. Alternatively, they can be used as
fermentation raw material to produce biofuels and chemicals following pre-treatment and
hydrolysis.

The organic juice contains valuable ingredients, such as lactic acid, proteins, and amino
acids which can be separated off before sending the remainder into a biogas plant. Organic
juice is fed to anaerobic digestion, typically coupled with other organic residues, to produce
biogas and digestate. In turn, the digestate is used as fertilizer and biogas can be upgraded
to biomethane to be injected in the natural gas grid, to bio-LNG for transport purposes, or
directly used to produce heat and electricity. Additionally, organic juice can be used as a
fermentation raw material.

Feedstock: Green wet biomass such as grass, clover, alfalfa (+ in combination with organic
residues)

Platform: Organic fibre, organic juice, (biogas)

Processes: Pressing, fibre separation, anaerobic digestion, combustion, (upgrading,

separation)

Products: Materials, chemicals (lactic acid, amino acid), animal feed, organic fertilizer, fuels
(biomethane, ethanol), power and heat Figure 27 provides a schematic representation of
the Two-platform (organic fibres and organic juice) biorefinery using green biomass
showing the different process variants

107
Figure 27. Two-platform (organic fibres and organic juice) biorefinery pathway using green biomass

108
Examples for the different process variants and their development status:

The process variants 1 and 2 are demonstrated at commercial scale, several demo
initiatives exist for the process variant 3. Process variants 4 and 5 are in the research
phase. Examples are provided in Table 21.

Table 21. Examples of commercial, demo, pilot biorefining facilities for biorefinery pathway F.

Facility Description Feedstock Products Process

variants

Biowert GmbH, Biowert produces green electricity and Grass Organic fibres for 1
Germany innovative materials, namely composites, biomaterials, fertilizer,
(commercial)201 insulation materials and fertilizers. biogas, heat and
Anaerobic digestion of organic juice is done electricity
together with regional organic
residues/wastes.

Green A demonstration facility based in Utzenaich Grass Organic fibres for 1, 3

Biorefinery, produces fibre derived products, fertilizer, biomaterials, fertilizer,
Austria electricity and heat. Additionally, lactic acid biogas, lactic acid,
(demo)202 and amino acids are produced. amino acids, heat and
electricity

Grassa, Mobile, small-scale modular process Grass, Organic fibres for 1, 3

Netherlands203 installation has been built to produce fibres leaves animal feed, protein,
and protein concentrate as well as minerals. (tomato, minerals (fertilizer)
sugarbeet)

G. Two-platform (oil and biogas) biorefinery using aquatic biomass

Description: This pathway uses aquatic biomass, such as micro-algae. The oil is extracted
most typically using solvents. Oil and de-oiled biomass are attained after primary refining.

In secondary refining, oil can be cleaved by hydrolysis to produce fatty acids and glycerol
which form valuable starting materials for oleochemicals, lubricants, and surfactants. The
oil contains valuable ingredients, such as carotenoids, phytosterols, omega-3 and 6 fatty
acids that can be extracted in secondary refining. These find use in food additive, health
supplement, and pharmaceutical products. Alternatively, the oil can be converted to fatty
acid methyl esters (FAME, biodiesel) and glycerol by transesterification.

De-oiled biomass can be converted into digestate and biogas through anaerobic digestion.
The digestate by-product from this process can be used as fertilizer.

Feedstock: Aquatic biomass

Platform: Oil, biogas

Processes: Extraction, hydrolysis, anaerobic digestion, combustion, transesterification,

(separation, hydrolysis, chemical conversions)

Products: Chemicals (fatty acids, fatty alcohols, glycerol), nutraceuticals, food, organic
fertilizer, biodiesel, power and heat

201
Biowert GmbH, https://biowert.com/
202
Green Biorefinery Utzenaich, Austria, https://nachhaltigwirtschaften.at/de/fdz/projekte/demonstrationsanlage-
gruene-bioraffinerie-utzenaich.php
203
Grassa, https://grassa.nl/en/about-grassa/

109
Figure 28 provides a schematic representation of the Two-platform (oil and biogas)
biorefinery using aquatic biomass showing the different process variants.

Figure 28. Two-platform (oil and biogas) biorefinery pathway using aquatic biomass

Examples for the different process variants and their development status:

For this biorefinery pathway from aquatic biomass several initiatives exist mostly in
research and pilot stage. Examples are provided in Table 22.

Table 22. Examples of demo and pilot biorefining facilities for biorefinery pathway G.

Facility Description Feedstock Products Process

variants

Ecoduna, Develop and research on future Microalgae Cosmeceuticals, 1, 3

Austria204 applications and effects of microalgae nutraceuticals, pigments,
and their ingredients energy and fuels

AlgaePARC, Research at laboratory and pilot scale to Microalgae Proteins, oils, omega 3 1, 3
the develop new production chains towards and 6, carbohydrates,
Netherlands205 high quality products. Mild recovery, pigments
extraction and fractionation of high value
components and research for product
development.

204
Ecoduna, https://www.ecoduna.com/en/
205
AlgaePARC, http://www.algaeparc.com/

110
H. Two-platform (organic fibres and oil) biorefinery using natural fibres

Description: Various types of natural fibres exist. Flax and hemp are grown predominantly
in Europe, whereas jute, kenaf and sisal mostly available in Asia. The properties of natural
fibres depend on their composition, growing conditions and harvesting techniques.

The seeds are separated from the stem by threshing. The fibres are located within the
stem/stalk. They are first treated with microbes or chemicals to loosen and then later on
mechanically to separate from the woody inside (shives). The fibres are used mostly in the
production of natural fibre composites by mixing with plastics. They find use in high-
performance applications such as in automobiles and aircrafts due to their low density and
attractive mechanical properties. Other applications include geotextiles, textiles, building
and construction. The shive left after fibre separation is normally not utilized but uses such
as animal bedding is possible and applications such as particle boards and plastic
composites are being developed.

The seeds and its oil can be used for food and as nutraceuticals. Additionally, oil can be
extracted for use in production of oleochemicals and biodiesel in analogy with oil crop based
biorefinery. The seed oil can contain valuable oils such as linoleic (omega-6) and linolenic
(omega-3) acid that can be isolated.

Furthermore, the leaves/threshing residues can contain cannabinoids. A large number of

studies have shown health promoting and medicinal properties of cannabinoids with
cannabidiol (CBD) being the most known.

Feedstock: Natural plant fibres including bast (e.g. hemp, flax, jute, kenaf), leaf (sisal,
abaca), stalk (e.g. rice, wheat, maize)

Platform: Organic fibres and oil

Processes: Fibre separation, extraction, physical processing, (chemical conversions)

Products: Materials, chemicals (fatty acids, fatty alcohols, glycerol), nutraceuticals,

cannabinoids, food and biodiesel

Figure 29 provides a schematic representation of the Two-platform (organic fibres and oil)
biorefinery using natural fibres showing the different process variants.

111
Figure 29. Two-platform (organic fibres and oil) biorefinery pathway using natural fibres

112
Examples for the different process variants and their development status:

The natural fibres find use commercially in the production of composites. For the biorefinery
concept yielding multiple products from natural fibres, several initiatives exist mostly in
research and pilot stage. Examples are provided in Table 23.

Table 23. Examples of commercial, demo, pilot biorefining facilities for biorefinery pathway H.

Facility Description Feedstock Products Process

variants

VeLiCa, VeLiCa is a pilot project looking at growing Hemp and Organic fibre for 1, 2
Italy206 hemp and flax in northern Italy and flax composites, oil for
biorefining into fibre-based green composite biodiesel,
building materials and oil. Oil will be used for lubricants and
bio-diesel, lubricants and polyols to produce polyols and
bio-based polymers. Additionally, valuable valuable oils for
oils will be obtained for the nutraceutical nutraceuticals
market.

GRACE207 The GRACE (GRowing Advanced industrial Hemp Organic fibre for 1, 2, 3, 4
Crops on marginal lands for biorEfineries) composites and
project led by the University of Hohenheim is building materials,
focused on exploiting the advantageous Oil for chemicals,
characteristics of Miscanthus and hemp. From Shive for building
hemp, the project looks at using fibres for materials,
composites and directly in building materials. Cannabinoids (e.g.
Extraction of oil for production of chemicals CBD)
(pelargonic acid, azelaic acid). Separated
shives use in building materials. Furthermore,
extraction of cannabinoids such as
cannabidiol from threshing residues.

Ecotechnilin, Ecotechnilin provides natural fibre (flax, Natural Natural fibre 1

France and hemp, jute, kenaf) for many industrial fibres (flax, composites
Poland208 applications. Specializes in the production of hemp, jute,
non-woven composite materials using natural kenaf)
fibres. The automotive industry moulds them
into car parts like wheel housings, trunk
floors, arm rests, door panels, dashboards
etc.

Kanesis, HempBioPlastic (HBP®) is a natural bio- Shrive of Hemp Bioplastic 3

Italy209 composite, developed and created from shive hemp
of industrial hemp which is usually just
wasted. PLA is used to produce the
composite, so it is biodegradable.

HempFlax, the HempFlax considers utilization of the hemp Hemp Biomaterials (fibre 1, 3, 4
Netherlands210 plant as a whole for various market for industrial
applications. Their products include animal applications,
bedding, building materials, materials for insulation,
industrial applications. As well as seeds, oil, composites),
CBD and protein powder. seeds, oil, CBD and
protein powder

Pathways based on direct thermochemical conversion of biomass:

Instead of processing of components attained from the biorefineries, the pathways

described below directly feed the whole biomass to thermochemical conversion for further
processing into chemicals and/or fuels.

206
Ravasio, Nicoletta & Galasso, Incoronata & Ottolina, Gianluca & Sacchi, Maria & Speranza, Giovanna & Tonin,
Claudio. A Biorefinery Model Based on Flax and Hemp Crops. La Chimica e l'Industria. 95. 113. 2013.
207
GRACE, https://www.grace-bbi.eu/
208
Ecotechnilin, https://eco-technilin.com/en/
209
Kanesis, https://www.kanesis.it/products/
210
HempFlax, https://www.hempflax.com/en/

113
I. One platform (syngas) biorefinery using lignocellulosic biomass and municipal solid
waste

Description: In this biorefinery pathway there is no component separation, all the biomass
is gasified to produce syngas. Dry biomass is considered as feedstock. It is possible to feed
many different types of biomass, such as energy crops like Miscanthus and switchgrass,
short rotation coppice (i.e. willow and poplar), wood, forestry residues, agricultural
residues (such as straw), as well as municipal solid waste and wood waste.
In primary refining, the biomass is pre-treated and dried followed by gasification to produce
crude synthesis gas which is the platform for this biorefinery pathway. Depending on the
heating process the pre-treatment could also be torrefaction or pyrolysis which is followed
by gasification. The syngas composition depends on a range of process parameters. The
syngas then goes through gas cleaning and conditioning since each downstream process
requires a specific syngas composition (CO:H2 ratio) as well as limits to certain
contaminants (such as sulphur). The syngas then can be chemically converted into a
spectrum of chemicals and fuels. It can go through Fischer-Tropsch synthesis to produce
synthetic biofuels. It can be chemically converted into methanol which serves as precursor
for other chemicals (such as dimethyl-ether, formaldehyde, acetic acid). Methanol can
alternatively go through methanol to olefin (MTO) conversion to produce chemicals. Syngas
can also be used for production of hydrogen or in production of methane following
methanation (for feeding into the natural gas grid (synthetic natural gas, SNG) and/or bio-
LNG for transport).

Black liquor and lignin are also potential feedstocks for gasification, as covered under
biorefinery pathways D and E respectively.

Feedstock: Lignocellulosic crops, wood/forestry biomass, forestry residues, agricultural

residues and municipal solid waste

Platform: Syngas

Processes: Pre-treatment, gasification, gas cleaning and conditioning, chemical

conversions

Products: Chemicals (methanol, hydrogen, olefins), waxes and fuels (F-T biofuels,
gasoline, LNG, mixed alcohols)

Figure 30 provides a schematic representation of the One platform (syngas) biorefinery

using lignocellulosic biomass and municipal solid waste showing the different process
variants.

114
Figure 30. One platform (syngas) biorefinery pathway using lignocellulosic biomass and municipal solid waste

115
Examples for the different process variants and their development status:

Several initiatives exist at pilot, demo and commercial scale using straw, wood or MSW as
feedstock. Examples are provided in Table 24.

Table 24. Examples of commercial, demo and pilot biorefining facilities for biorefinery pathway I.

Facility Description Feedstock Products Process

variants

LanzaTech211 LanzaTech ferments gases (industrial off- MSW, Bioethanol, chemical 3

gas or syngas from waste) and produces organic building blocks
ethanol and a variety of chemicals using a industrial
naturally occurring bacteria. They have waste,
demonstration facilities in China, Japan, agricultural
USA and New Zealand. waste
Karlruhe In the bioliq® pilot plant biomass is Wheat straw Methanol, DME, biofuels 1
Institute of densified with fast pyrolysis de-centrally.
Technology, The resulting slurry is used to produce
Germany212 syngas centrally by entrained gasification.
The syngas is cleaned and conditioned
followed by methanol or dimethyl ether
synthesis. DME can further be converted
to biofuels.

Enerkem213 First commercial waste to biofuels and MSW Methanol, ethanol 1, 3

chemicals company in Edmonton, Canada.
Two projects under way to produce
methanol from waste in the Netherlands
and Spain. The proprietary
thermochemical process includes
feedstock preparation, gasification,
syngas cleaning and conditioning and
catalytic conversion to produce methanol
and ethanol.

J. Two platform (pyrolytic liquid and biochar) biorefinery using lignocellulosic biomass

Description: Similar to the biorefinery pathway with the syngas platform, in this biorefinery
pathway lignocellulosic, dry biomass is thermochemically converted without separation into
its components. There is the possibility to feed many different types of biomass but most
typically, wood is used.

Pyrolysis is the thermal degradation/decomposition process that occurs in the absence of

oxygen, which results in production of pyrolytic liquid (pyrolysis oil), biochar and gas.
Biochar and gas are combusted to provide the process heat requirements. Biochar can also
be attained as co-product and is used for soil-amendment. Pyrolysis oil is the main product
and can be utilized in different ways. It can be gasified to syngas and further converted to
various chemicals and fuels as described in the pathway for syngas platform, pathway I.
Pyrolysis oil can alternatively be co-fed into petroleum oil refineries, and following
hydrotreating or cracking, it will result in the production of biofuels, chemical feedstocks
(e.g. naphtha) and chemical building blocks (e.g. propylene). Production of food flavouring
(liquid smoke) is a commercialized product from pyrolysis. Pyrolysis oil can also be fed into
a combined heat and power plant to produce heat and electricity.

Pyrolysis oil can find use in adhesives/resins where a phenolic rich fraction can be extracted
and used in phenol formaldehyde resins. Another application considered is the addition in
asphalt that can be used in roofing and roads. For this also the lignin fraction of pyrolysis
oil can be separated and used for bitumen replacement. Oil fractions can be used for wood
modification. Finally, extraction of levoglucosan which is present in the pyrolytic sugar

211
LanzaTech, https://www.lanzatech.com/
212
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, bioliq® Process, https://www.bioliq.de/english/55.php
213
Enerkem, https://enerkem.com/

116
phase (from cellulose) is researched which can be hydrolysed and converted to multitude
of chemicals.214

Feedstock: Lignocellulosic crop, wood/forestry, residues from agriculture and forestry

Platform: Pyrolytic liquid, biochar, (syngas)

Processes: Fast-pyrolysis, separation, combustion, (gasification, cracking, extraction)

Products: Pyrolysis oil (for materials, chemicals, food flavourings, syngas, biofuels),
biochar, power and heat

Figure 31. Two platform (pyrolytic liquid and biochar) biorefinery pathway using lignocellulosic biomass

Figure 31 provides a schematic representation of the Two platform (pyrolytic liquid and
biochar) biorefinery using lignocellulosic biomass showing the different process variants.

214
IEA Bioenergy Task 34, Materials and Products, http://task34.ieabioenergy.com/materials-and-products/

117
Examples for the different process variants and their development status:

Process variant 1 is demonstrated at commercial scale. Process variant 2 is covered within

the biorefinery pathway I and example of bioliq® pilot plant is given for that. For process
variant 3 commercial plant is being built which will be linked to an existing petroleum
refinery. Process variant 4 is mostly in research phase. Examples are provided in Table 25.

Pyrolysis oil can be used for energy (combustion), chemicals and materials (via
fractionation) or fuels and chemicals via co-processing in oil refineries.

Table 25. Examples of commercial, demo and pilot biorefining facilities for biorefinery pathway J.

Facility Description Feedstock Products Process

variants

Empryro, Commercial facility in Hengelo using fast Woodchips pyrolysis oil, heat and 1
Twence, the pyrolysis technology of BTG-BTL. The electricity
Netherlands215 plant uses woodchips to produce
pyrolysis oil. From the rest streams heat
and electricity is produced. Pyrolysis oil
is co-fired with natural gas producing
process steam for dairy company
FrieslandCampina.

Lieksa, Green Prefab facilities will be built in Sawdust pyrolysis oil, heat and 1
Fuel Nordic Oy, Netherlands and then assembled in electricity
Finland216 Liekska pyrolysis plant which will be
located next to a sawmill and will use
sawdust from the mill as feedstock.

CHIMAR Hellas, Studied the potential use pyrolysis oil, Pyrolysis Phenol-formaldehyde 4
SA217 the part comprising of phenolic oil resin
compounds, for replacing part of the
phenol needed in the formulation of
phenol-formaldehyde resin. Phenol
substitution levels of up to 50% were
achieved.

BTG, The BTG is actively exploring and developing Pyrolysis Biomaterials and 4
218
Netherlands different new products by using pyrolysis oil chemicals (such as
oil as the raw material in pilot set-ups. resin, asphalt, organic
Examples are: acids, phenolics,
• Pyrolytic lignin as a substitute for ethanol)
fossil phenol in phenol-formaldehyde
resins
• Pyrolytic lignin as a replacement for
fossil bitumen in e.g. asphalt
• Recovery of organic acids
• Production of mono-phenolics
• Pyrolytic sugars as a renewable
feedstock for platform chemicals and
fuels e.g. bio-ethanol levulinic acid,
polyols.

215
Twence, https://www.twence.nl/energie/wat-leveren-wij.html
216
Green Fuel Nordic Oy, https://www.greenfuelnordic.fi/en
217
Nakos P, Tsiantzi S, Athanassiadou E. Wood adhesives made with pyrolysis oils. Proceedings of the 3rd European
wood-based panel symposium, 12–14 September 2001.
218
BTG, https://www.btgworld.com/en/rtd/technologies/bio-materials-chemicals

118
K. One platform (bio-crude) biorefinery using lignocellulosic biomass, aquatic biomass
and organic residues

Description: There are essentially two main classes of thermochemical processes able to
produce a liquid fuel directly from solid biomass: fast pyrolysis and hydrothermal
liquefaction. Pyrolysis oil resulting from fast pyrolysis generally has a relatively high oxygen
content, requiring further upgrading for most applications. Furthermore, it is usually
required to dry the biomass to make it suitable for pyrolysis. Whereas, in hydrothermal
liquefaction, it is possible to get a high viscosity liquid product with a considerably lower
oxygen content, and it can work also with wet biomass.219 This allows also aquatic biomass
and organic residues to be considered as potential feedstock besides lignocellulosic
biomass. Also low/negative-cost but also low-quality feedstocks like sludge and manure
potentially can be processed by means of hydrothermal liquefaction.

Hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) involves the reaction of the feedstock in the presence of
water at hydrothermal conditions (temperature 250-370 °C and pressure 4-22 MPa) where
the water is kept in liquid state.220 It is currently being studied mostly at lab scale with
batch setups. Several continuous pilot setups have also been built. An example is the one
built at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratories (PNNL) intended for the processing of
different types of biomass (such as algae and agricultural residues).221 Although HTL can
still be considered as an emerging technology, there are already some companies that are
active in its commercialization (see Table 15). The company Genifuel is looking at
commercial development of the technology developed by PNNL.222 Licella Pty Ltd., has
developed the so-called Cat-HTR™ (Catalytic Hydrothermal Reactor) process mainly
considering the use of agricultural and industrial residues and wastes as feedstock.223
Steeper Energy developed the Hydrofaction™ process in collaboration with Aalborg
University, Denmark. A demonstration plant is built in Norway by Silva Green Fuels.224

The bio-crude produced from HTL can be burned for fuel or upgraded to produce fuels or
chemicals. This is usually done by hydrotreating. Currently very few works have looked at
this downstream upgrading of bio-crude. An option considered is the co-processing of bio-
crude in existing petroleum refineries (hydrotreatment followed by FCC).

Feedstock: Lignocellulosic crop, wood/forestry, residues from agriculture and forestry,

aquatic biomass and organic residues and wastes

Platform: Bio-crude

Processes: Hydrothermal liquefaction, upgrading

Products: Chemicals and fuels

Figure 32 provides a schematic representation of the One platform (bio-crude) biorefinery

using lignocellulosic biomass, aquatic biomass and organic residues.

219
Castello, D., Pedersen, T.H., Rosendahl, L.A. Continuous Hydrothermal Liquefaction of Biomass: A Critical Review.
Energies , 11, 3165. 2018.
220
IEA Bioenergy Task 34, Solvent Liquefaction, http://task34.ieabioenergy.com/solvent-liquefaction/
221
Elliott, D.C., Hart, T.R., Schmidt, A.J., Neuenschwander, G.G., Rotness, L.J.;,Olarte, M.V., Zacher, A.H., Albrecht,
K.O., Hallen, R.T., Holladay, J.E. Process development for hydrothermal liquefaction of algae feedstocks in a
continuous-flow reactor. Algal Res. , 2, 445–454. 2013.
222
Genifuel, http://www.genifuel.com/
223
Licella, https://www.licella.com.au/
224
Steeper Energy and Silva Green Fuel, Hydrofaction™ technology, https://ec.europa.eu/easme/en/news/steeper-
energy-builds-industrial-scale-plant-worth-506-million

119
 Figure 32. One platform (bio-crude) biorefinery pathway using lignocellulosic biomass, aquatic biomass and organic residues

Examples and their development status:

Several companies are building demonstration scale plants to bring the technology towards
commercialization. The production currently ends at bio-crude level that needs to be
further upgraded to produce chemicals and/or biofuels. Examples are provided in Table 26

Table 26. Examples of commercial, demo and pilot biorefining facilities for biorefinery pathway K.

Facility Description Feedstock Products

Genifuel, Genifuel pilot facilities in operation. The e.g. wastewater solids, Bio-crude
USA222 system was developed by the Pacific food processing wastes,
Northwest National Laboratory, (PNNL), part animal wastes and algae
of the US Department of Energy. The process
has been tested with variety of feedstocks,
most typically wet wastes.

Licella Pty Ltd., Licella developed the Cat-HTR™ process and Variety of organic residues Bio-crude
Australia223 tested in large scale continuous-flow pilot and wastes
plant. They are working with its strategic
partners to build commercial-scale
hydrothermal upgrading plants. Also, being
studied as chemical recycling to convert end-
of-life plastics to oil.

Steeper Steeper Energy license its proprietary Lignocellulosic residues Biofuels

Energy, Silva Hydrofaction™ technology to Silva, who will (forestry, agri-business, (renewable
Green Fuels224 build the demonstration plant. It will use food processing residues) diesel, jet,
woody residues as feedstock that are marine fuel)
converted to renewable crude oil and, in
turn, will be upgraded to renewable diesel,
jet or marine fuel.

120
OVERVIEW OF DEVELOPMENT STATUS AND SCALE OF THE 11 BIOREFINERY PATHWAYS

Development Status of Biorefinery Pathways

While the biorefinery pathways based on the bottom-up approach (A-D) are demonstrated
at commercial scale (TRL9), the biorefinery pathways based on the top-down approach (E-
L) are at a lower degree of maturity for the production of chemicals and/or materials.
Figure 33 shows development status of biorefinery pathways focusing on the production of
chemicals and/or materials. For pathway E, production of ethanol from lignocellulosic
biomass has been achieved at a (pre)commercial phase and several flagships exist also for
the production of other chemicals. Pathway F, biorefinery using grass, has been
demonstrated at commercial scale. For biorefinery pathways G and H, that utilise aquatic
biomass and natural fibres, the biorefinery concepts currently are at pilot stage. Regarding,
biorefinery pathway I, first commercial examples are emerging for the production of
methanol through syngas. Although the biorefinery pathways J and K, that consider
thermochemical routes of fast pyrolysis and hydrothermal liquefaction respectively, the
production of the platforms of pyrolytic liquid and bio-crude has been demonstrated at
commercial (for J) or at demo scale (for K); research at laboratory scale is in progress for
the production of chemicals and materials from these platforms. Therefore, this latter
development status is indicated in Figure 33.

It should be noted that the biorefinery pathways contain several process variants involving
a variety of process and technology concepts, and that the development status for the
resulting variations can deviate within a single pathway. The Biorefinery Roadmap (Federal
Government of Germany, 20129) estimated the development status of the different
biorefinery pathways at the time of publication. The figure presented in this roadmap was
adapted to include also the other pathways described in this project and the progress that
has been made from 2012 till now.

Figure 33. Development status of biorefinery pathways for production of chemicals/materials in a biorefinery (adapted from
Biorefineries Roadmap, 20129)

121
Scale of Biorefinery Pathways

Small-scale biorefinery processes are specifically favourable for the efficient and
sustainable valorisation for relatively wet biomass (such as grass), agricultural and food
processing residues and aquatic biomass. To prevent the costly transportation of this wet
or low density biomass, the production facilities are located in rural areas using local
biomass. It is considered that through highly automated modular and transportable units,
they can be easily implemented in these areas and allow higher contribution of biomass
suppliers to the bio-economy. These local systems also allow unused nutrients to be easily
returned to the farm. Accordingly, these small-scale biorefineries will contribute to rural
and coastal diversification and regeneration.225

Large-scale biorefinery processes are especially important for capital intensive processes.
For example, thermochemical processes (such as gasification) benefit from economy of
scale; whereas low-temperature biochemical processes benefit most from economy of
duplication. Large scale processing is also preferred when large volumes of products are
demanded such as biofuels (bioethanol, biodiesel) and bulk chemicals. These are generally
located near a port to allow continuous feed of large volumes of mainly imported biomass.
However, further downstream processing of for example chemical building blocks to fine
and specialty chemicals can take place in small to medium scale in separate processing
plants.

It is also conceivable to decentralise the components of primary refining (e.g. biomass pre-
treatment and conditioning), giving rise to a hybrid structure (combination of small and
large scale production). The intermediates produced in the small decentralised facilities
(i.e. high energy density in case of upstream pyrolysis or torrefaction, and high quality in
case deashing/demineralisation is part of the primary refinery) are linked to a large-scale
central processing facility to upgrade the intermediate to final value-added products. This
allows combining the advantages of small systems (i.e. lower feedstock transportation
costs) with the advantages of economies of scale of larger systems (of intensive
technologies).

Table 27. Scale of biorefinery pathways

Size of biorefineries Characteristics

Small-scale • Attractive for wet biomass

biorefineries • Located in rural or coastal areas
• Use of mobile units

Large-scale • Attractive for capital-intensive processing such as thermo-chemical

biorefineries conversion
• For production of large volumes
• Potential integration in existing (petro)chemical complexes at harbour areas

Integrated • Combine the advantages of small-scale and large-scale systems

decentralized small- • Small-scale primary refining to increase biomass density and potentially the
scale processing with quality
centralized large-scale • Separate nutrients close to source and recycle closing the loop
upgrading • Efficient transport
• Efficient secondary refining

225
Bruins, M.E. and Sanders, J.P. Small-scale processing of biomass for biorefinery. Biofuels, Bioprod. Bioref., 6: 135-
145. 2012.

122
3.5 Task 2 - High-level assessment of the key advantages and disadvantages of
biorefinery pathways compared to alternative pathways

Task 2 provides a high-level assessment of biorefinery pathways with respect to the market
competition with alternative fossil and CO2-based competing production pathways. This
high-level assessment is carried out for a selection of bio-based chemicals (4) and
materials (3) covering various biorefinery production pathways. This selection was carried
out in collaboration with WP 2 which uses these selected product groups/ products as case
studies when assessing specific non-technical barriers and WP 5 where market evaluations
are carried out. Task 2 includes identification of the fossil alternatives and other renewable
alternative pathways using CO2 and renewably produced power for water electrolysis to
produce H2.

The goal of the high-level assessment is to get an overall indication on the

advantages/disadvantages that biorefinery pathways deliver compared with their
alternatives considering different criteria such as technical product performance, cost
competitiveness and climate impact, as far as these could be extracted from existing
literature (i.e. the project is not including own system modelling/assessment activities).

Furthermore, regarding the bio-based pathways, the sustainability of biomass feedstock,

valorisation of residues and waste and material vs. energy use are considered.

SELECTION OF REPRESENTATIVE BIO-BASED CHEMICALS AND MATERIALS FOR ANALYSIS

Selecting the representative chemicals and materials is important to take up in the

analysis. This selection was done considering the chemical and material sub-categories
described in WP 1 Classification system and in alignment with WPs 2 and 5. For the
selection the following criteria were applied:
• Both chemicals and materials shall be represented

• A single or just a few biorefinery pathways shall not dominate

• Products with substantial market share and/or market growth shall be prioritized

• Products with specific functionality and/or sustainability benefits compared to fossil-

based alternatives shall be prioritized

• Data should be available for the different criteria used in the assessments

• Products with a production base in the EU shall be prioritised considering also

planned operations

For this, recent studies from the BBI project RoadToBio (2019) and the JRC Report on
Biobased chemicals (2019) were taken as a starting point. They cover the relevant products
in the market, selected under similar assumptions (i.e. market attractiveness, 2030 time
horizon). Furthermore, the products described in WP 3 Task 1 biorefinery pathways and
the products listed in the database developed in WP 4 were considered.

With the selection according to these criteria not all the biorefinery pathways are
represented. Also, not all the sub-categories under chemicals and materials are covered.
The selected representative chemicals and materials are provided below under sub-
categories described in WP 1 Classification System (in brackets the corresponding
biorefinery pathways for their production are indicated).

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Chemicals:

• Building blocks/additives: propylene glycol (B/C/E)

• Building blocks: Drop-in – 1,4 BDO (A/B/E) and methanol (D/I), Dedicated – lactic acid
+ poly lactic acid (A/B/E)

• Solvents: acetic acid (A/B/D/E/I)

• Surfactants: fatty alcohol ethoxylate (C + A/B/E)

• Materials:

• Fibres: microfibrillated cellulose (D)

• Resins: lignin based phenolic resins (D/E/J)

In the following sections, for each of these selected chemicals and materials, the following
are described: the production route and major examples; biorefinery and alternative
pathways (fossil and CO2-based); advantages/disadvantages with respect to the fossil-
based counterpart; and any other important aspects (sustainability of biomass feedstock,
valorisation of residues and waste, material vs. energy use).

BUILDING BLOCKS/ADDITIVE: PROPYLENE GLYCOL

Production route and major examples

ADM is one of the major producers of bio propylene glycol (PG).226 They use glycerol which
is attained as a by-product from the transesterification of vegetable oils. They use primarily
soybeans and canola as feedstock. The crude glycerol is processed through several
evaporation and distillation steps into a pharmaceutical grade glycerol. This glycerol is
either sold into the market or processed into PG through a catalytic conversion process of
hydrogenolysis. The reaction between glycerol and hydrogen takes place at high
temperature and pressure over a catalyst to produce PG and water. The PG is further
distilled into a technical grade or a pharma grade PG to be sold in the market. Technical
grade finds applications in unsaturated polyester resins, coolants and antifreeze, hydraulic
and brake fluid, and paint and coatings. The pharmaceutical grade finds use in food and
flavourings, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and pet food among others.

In 2011, ADM built a commercial production facility for PG at its Decatur, Illinois facility.
Currently, ADM is producing 100,000 metric tonnes of bio PG per year and employing 140
people at the Decatur facility.227 Bio PG has a 100 percent bio-based renewable carbon
content. It is sold with a USDA Certified Biobased Product Label.228

In 2012, chemical conglomerate BASF partnered with Oleon to open a bio-based PG

conversion facility in Belgium also by a glycerol-based process.229 Ashland also tied up with
Cargill to produce bio-based propylene glycol from glycerol in Europe.230

Also, UPM plans to build a biorefinery in Leuna, Germany, with an annual capacity of
220,000 metric tonnes that will convert wood into sugars and lignin. The sugar will be

226
ADM Propylene glycol, https://www.adm.com/products-services/industrials/propylene-glycol
227
http://ethanolproducer.com/articles/14960/adm-partners-with-pnnl-to-produce-biobased-propylene-glycol
228
https://www.adm.com/products-services/industrials/propylene-glycol/faqs
229
https://www.chemeurope.com/en/news/138616/basf-and-oleon-celebrate-grand-opening-of-propylene-glycol-
production-plant.html
230
https://cen.acs.org/articles/85/i20/Ashland-Cargill-Plan-Biobased-Chemical.html

124
further converted through an efficient one-step process to renewable monoethylene glycol
(BioMEG) and propylene glycol. The plant is due to start up by 2023.

Biorefinery pathway

The production route described above is under pathway C and is depicted below.
Alternatively, it is possible to obtain glycerol from hydrolysis of oil into fatty acids and
glycerol (see Figure 24 process variant 2). It is also possible to produce fatty alcohols
(instead of biodiesel) and glycerol from transesterification (see Figure 34 process variant
4). These are indicated with dashed lines in Figure 24. Apart from oil crops such as soy
and canola, waste fats and oils can be used in this pathway.

Figure 34. One platform (oil) biorefinery pathway using soy/canola for propylene glycol

In addition to manufacturing propylene glycol from glycerol, ADM has the capability to
manufacture propylene glycol from its self-produced sorbitol, a corn-derived sugar alcohol,
following the same chemical conversion route226. This falls under pathway B described
under process variant 4 (see

Figure 23). It is also possible to use sugars derived from sugar crops (pathway A) and
from lignocellulosic biomass (pathway E) as feedstock.

Alternative pathways

The alternative to bio propylene glycol is the fossil-based propylene glycol. Fossil-based
propylene glycol is produced through hydration of propylene oxide that is derived from
propylene. The alternative pathways for the production of propylene glycol using either
biomass or fossil feedstock are depicted in Figure 35.

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 Figure 35. Alternative pathways for propylene glycol production using biomass or fossil feedstock

It should be noted here that propylene used as the feedstock in the fossil-based route can
also be attained commercially from biomass. Neste produces and sells renewable propane
attained as a by-product from its proprietary NEXBTL™ technology to Borealis, which the
company can steam crack or process via propane dehydrogenation to produce renewable
propylene.231

Assessment with respect to fossil-based propylene glycol –

Advantages/disadvantages bio-PG

Technical performance: Bio propylene glycol is a drop-in chemical – it is identical to fossil-

based propylene glycol (i.e. has the same molecular structure). ADM’s propylene glycol
meets the same USP, EP, JP (the three prime regional Pharmacopoeia organisations) and
FCC specifications (for food) as petroleum-based PG.228

Environmental performance: Life Cycle Analyses (LCA) studies, reviewed and endorsed by
third parties, show that propylene glycol produced by ADM provides a 60% reduction in
greenhouse gas emissions when compared to PG derived from petrochemical production.232
In addition, ADM USP-PG was certified by the USDA as a 100% bio-based product when
tested by ASTM D6866. 228

Cost performance: ADM is able to produce bio PG on a commercial scale which is cost
competitive with fossil-based PG227. Use of waste and residual oils and fats as feedstock
could positively influence the cost competitiveness.

Other important considerations

Sustainability of biomass feedstock: As part of the Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 and the
Farm to Fork Strategy, the Commission will present in 2021 a legislative proposal and other

231
https://www.neste.com/releases-and-news/circular-economy/borealis-producing-certified-renewable-
polypropylene-nestes-renewable-propane-own-facilities-belgium
232
https://www.adm.com/products-services/industrials/propylene-glycol/life-cycle-analysis

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measures to avoid or minimise the products associated with deforestation or forest
degradation. The deforestation relates to several food-based feedstocks especially oil
crops. The feedstock crude glycerol used in the production of PG is derived from oil crops
predominantly from soybean and canola. They don’t use palm oil derived glycerol. ADM
has set forth several sustainability commitments and sources certified biomass. ADM
sources RTRS certified soybeans in Argentina and Brazil and ISCC certified canola, corn
and soy in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Europe and Paraguay.233 Furthermore, following the
UPM example use of lignocellulosic biomass can replace use of crops as feedstock for
propylene glycol productions.

Valorisation of residues and wastes: Crude glycerol is currently available in high volumes
as a processing residue or by-product from biodiesel production. It contains impurities that
needs to be removed to bring it into utilization. The bioproduct derived need to be of high
value and needs to be attained in high yields/concentrations to cover the downstream
processing costs to be economically viable. The production of propylene glycol presents a
good example where science and industry expertise were brought together to refine the
catalyst and operation to produce a valuable chemical on a commercial scale.

The crude glycerol feedstock currently derived from oil crops for the production of bio PG,
could also be derived from the transesterification of waste fats and oils.

Material vs energy use: The principles of the circular economy and of the waste hierarchy
(Directive 2008/98/EC, Article 4) favour the material use over energy. However, the
existing biofuel-related targets (RED II, EU/2018/2011) support the use of biomass for
biofuels production. There is a dedicated target for advanced biofuels produced from
feedstocks listed in Part A of Annex IX of the Renewable Energy Directive which are wastes
and residues. This is supportive of the transition towards use of residues and waste
materials instead of food crops as feedstock. However, materials/chemicals that rely on
the same feedstock do not yet have such supportive mechanism in place. This results in
distorted competition for feedstock between energy and material use – a situation often
called as a non-level playing field. This puts pressure on availability and price of biomass
for material/chemical use and causes market distortion. Crude glycerol, which is the
feedstock for producing bio PG, is also one of the items in the Annex IX of RED II.

BUILDING BLOCK: DROP-IN – 1,4-BUTANEDIOL (BDO)

Production route and major examples

1.4-Butanediol (BDO) is a chemical building block for the production of plastics, elastic
fibres and polyurethanes for a wide range of applications, such as: textiles, electronics,
automotive and consumer goods.234 It is an example of drop-in chemicals, which are a bio-
based version of existing fossil-based chemicals that have established markets. Novamont
has invested in a production facility that produces BDO from glucose syrup through an
innovative single-step fermentation, thanks to bioengineering technology that Novamont
successfully licensed from Genomatica and integrated into its production process. 235
Glucose syrup is derived from the hydrolysis of starch. The resulting product, bio-BDO, is
a 100 % bio-based drop-in replacement for the fossil-based BDO on the market. The
company uses the product as an input for its own downstream bioplastic products, which
constitute the company’s main business. This allowed them to increase the renewable
carbon content of their bioplastics to more than 60%. They call it a 4th generation bioplastic
(Mater-Bi) that is biodegradable and compostable.236

Commercial production started in 2016 in the Mater-Biotech plant in Italy. The plant has a
production capacity of 30,000 metric tonnes of bio-BDO per year and employs 75

233
https://www.adm.com/sustainability/responsible-sourcing
234
https://www.novamont.com/public/zip/factsheet_materbiotech_EN_web.pdf
235
https://bioplasticsnews.com/bio-bdo-bio-butanediol-novamont/
236
https://www.novamont.it/eng/materbiotech/

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employees235. Novamont converted a decommissioned industrial plant designed for a
different fermentation process to the production of bio-BDO. This contributed to territorial
regeneration. 235

Other companies, including BASF, DSM and Tate&Lyle, also announced a licence agreement
with Genomatica to use their process for producing bio-BDO.237 BASF also markets bio-
based PolyTHF produced using bio-BDO.238

Bio Amber and Myriant are working on the development of bio-BDO through a two-step
process consisting of the initial glucose fermentation into bio based succinic acid and
subsequent conversion to BDO through conventional hydrogenation.239

Biorefinery pathways

The production route described above is under pathway B and is depicted in Figure 36.
Alternatively, it is possible to use the sugars derived from sugar crops (pathway A) or
from lignocellulosic biomass (pathway E) for fermentation into bio-BDO. There is also the
two-step route including fermentation into succinic acid followed by hydrogeneration to
BDO.

Figure 36. One platform (starch) biorefinery pathway using maize for 1,4 BDO

Alternative pathways

The alternative to bio-BDO is the fossil-based BDO. Fossil-based BDO is produced from
different fossil feedstocks, including: acetylene, butadiene, maleic anhydride and
propylene.240 Over 40% of fossil based BDO is still produced via the Reppe process where
acetylene is reacted with formaldehyde to form butynediol which then undergoes high

237
E4tech, RE-CORD and WUR. From the Sugar Platform to biofuels and biochemicals. Final report for the European
Commission, contract No. ENER/C2/423-2012/SI2.673791. 2015.
238
https://www.basf.com/global/en/media/news-releases/2015/03/p-15-163.html
239
RoadToBio.D1.2 Case studies on potentially attractive opportunities for bio-based chemicals in Europe. 2018.
240
https://thinking.nexant.com/sites/default/files/report/field_attachment_abstract/201304/2012_3_abs.pdf

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pressure hydrogenation to form BDO238. It is produced using the Mitsubishi process from
butadiene which is a multi-step synthesis based on the acetoxylation of butadiene to 1,4-
diacetoxy-2-butene followed by hydrogenation to produce BDO. Fossil-based BDO is also
manufactured on an industrial scale from maleic anhydride in the Davy process, which is
first converted to the methyl maleate ester, then hydrogenated. LyondellBasell, leading
producer in Europe, uses the ARCO process from propylene oxide to BDO technology239.

The alternative pathways for the production of BDO using either biomass or fossil feedstock
are depicted in Figure 37.

Figure 37. Alternative pathways for BDO production using biomass or fossil feedstock

Assessment with respect to fossil-based BDO – Advantages/disadvantages of

bio-BDO

Technical performance: Bio-BDO is identical to fossil-based bio-BDO (i.e. has the same
molecular structure). It offers direct drop-in replacement for fossil BDO.

Environmental performance: Novamont’s internal LCA studies show that bio-BDO results
in approximately 60% greenhouse gas emission reduction when compared to fossil-BDO234.
The plant has been designed to use by-products for its own energy purposes, thus reducing
net energy consumption and waste production233.

Cost performance: Bio-BDO product of Novamont is currently used internally for the
production of their biopolymers and not sold to external customers. It is not cost
competitive with the fossil equivalent product. It is reported that the costs are less than
double compared to published fossil-BDO prices234. Due to the relatively low capacity of
production, the production of bio-BDO does not yet benefit from economies of scale to the

129
same extent that competing, fossil-based BDO do.241 The price difference has been reduced
as a result of cost reduction measures in the production process.

Bio-BDO replaces fossil-based chemicals in producing Novamont’s bioplastic products.

Although, there is a price difference with the conventionally used fossil-based plastics in
the blend, the use of bio-BDO allows increase in the renewable carbon content of their
bioplastics (from about 35% to about 60%) and further reduction of their fossil dependence
and climate impact.235 This is increasingly gaining importance with the legislative
requirements on minimum bio-based content criteria for lightweight plastic carrier bags
and sustainability commitments. With the integration of bio-BDO in its bioplastics,
Novamont is able to meet these minimum requirements, which gives them a competitive
advantage in the market.242

Since bio-BDO provides a drop in replacement for a product with an established supply
chain there is the opportunity for the future deployment of bio-BDO by external customers
especially committed to sustainability, and thus an increase in volume of production would
be possible. BDO is in high demand for a wide range of applications besides plastics, e.g.
in sectors such as: textiles, automotive and consumer goods. Furthermore, there is a
growing trend for BDO (fossil+bio) with the market growing 5-8% CAGR per year240. This
is partly owing to the growing demand of spandex in textiles and the bio-BDO derived
PTMEG used for this.

Other important considerations

Sustainability of biomass feedstock:

The feedstock currently used for the production of bio-BDO is sugars (glucose) derived
from the hydrolysis of starch – the so-called glucose syrup, commonly used in industrial
fermentation processes. The glucose syrup is supplied from a local Italian production plant
that uses starch sourced in Europe. According to company estimates, the current demand
for glucose syrup is assessed to not significantly influence the market for these raw
materials240.

Looking into the future, and to address possible future concerns with respect to feedstock
competition with food, Novamont has been conducting research on obtaining sugars from
lignocellulosic biomass (that corresponds to pathway E). Novamont pilot-tested this
technology, which has proven to be technologically feasible. 234

BUILDING BLOCK: DROP-IN – METHANOL

Production route and major examples

Methanol is one of the largest volume chemicals in the world and serves as a building block
for various other chemicals, e.g. formaldehyde, acetic acid, olefins, MTBE and DME.
Biomethanol is a drop-in chemical, chemically identical to fossil-based methanol. Currently,
almost all methanol is produced from synthesis gas (syngas). Bio-based syngas
(biosyngas) can be produced from gasification of various biomass sources, such as:
lignocellulosic crops (e.g. energy crops like Miscanthus and switchgrass and short rotation
coppice, such as: willow and poplar), wood, forestry residues, agricultural residues (such
as straw), as well as municipal solid waste (MSW), black liquor, wood waste and manure.

The first commercial scale plants have been built based on the MSW gasification by
Enerkem213. One is situated in Edmonton, Canada. Other projects are underway to produce
methanol from MSW, for example in the Netherlands, Spain and China. The proprietary

241
https://www.ecologic.eu/sites/files/publication/2019/3513-bio-based-products-15-success-stories-2019.pdf
242
https://www.industryarc.com/PressRelease/1760/Bio-BDO-Market-Research-Analysis.html

130
thermochemical process includes feedstock preparation, gasification, syngas cleaning and
conditioning and catalytic conversion to produce methanol and ethanol. 213

Methanol can also be produced from biogas which is upgraded to biomethane and then
reformed to produce biosyngas. This route produces the largest volumes of biomethanol
today but does not fall under the definition of a biorefinery. BioMCN formerly produced
biomethanol from glycerol in the Netherlands. In 2015, BioMCN was acquired by OCI N.V.
and continued producing renewable methanol from biogas with a capacity about 60,000
metric tonnes per year.243 The biogas has to be cleaned to obtain a gas with high methane
content which is then supplied to the natural gas grid. BioMCN uses gas from the grid and
converts to methanol. They purchase green gas certificates and the methanol produced is
on a mass balance basis certified as bio-methanol.244

Alternatively, methanol is commercially produced as a side-stream from Kraft mills by

separating and purifying methanol from the waste gas (steam stripper off-gas) which can
contain up to 70% methanol.245 This gas is conventionally incinerated. Alpac (Alberta-
Pacific Forest Industries Inc.) was the first company to valorise this waste gas to attain
methanol as a by-product. They produce 4,000 metric tonnes of methanol per year.246
They use a portion of the methanol they produce to make a pulp whitening agent required
for the production of pulp and sells any surplus commercially.247

Biorefinery pathways

The production route described above through syngas is under pathway I and is depicted
below:

Figure 38. One platform (syngas) biorefinery pathway using lignocellulosic biomass and MSW for methanol

Alternatively, methanol is generated as a by-product in Kraft mills covered under pathway

D, process variant 6 (see Figure 25).

Furthermore, methanol can also be generated by steam reforming of biomethane to

biosyngas and methanol synthesis to biomethanol. Biomethane is produced from upgrading
of biogas which arises from anaerobic digestion of organic residues (see pathway F).

Figure 27 provides a schematic representation of the Two-platform (organic fibres and

organic juice) biorefinery using green biomass showing the different process variants.

Alternative pathways

The alternatives to biomethanol are the fossil-based methanol and the CO2-based
methanol. The methanol produced from all these different options is chemically identical.

243
https://www.methanol.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/MethanolReport.pdf
244
https://brintbranchen.dk/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Paul-Compagne_BioMCN.pdf
245
IEA Bioenergy Task42 Biorefining. Sustainable and synergetic processing of biomass into marketable food & feed
ingredients, products (chemicals, materials) and energy (fuels, power, heat). August 2014.
246
IEA Bioenergy Task 42, Country Report, https://www.iea-bioenergy.task42-
biorefineries.com/upload_mm/d/9/3/21c2be95-41c5-41a9-ab99-
b6762e912c2a_Canada_2015_Country_Report_IEA_Bioenergy_Task42_MW_Final.pdf
247
https://alpac.ca/index.php/about/products

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Similar to the pathway of biomass, fossil-based methanol is also produced through syngas.
But the syngas is produced from gasification of coal or from steam reforming of natural
gas.

Methanol can also be produced by reacting CO2 with hydrogen produced from the
electrolysis of water using renewable electricity. There are three options for the source of
CO2: fossil CO2, biogenic CO2 and direct air capture.248 Fossil CO2 is mostly obtained from
manufacturing (e.g. cement, steel) or power plants. Biogenic CO2 is mostly produced
during fermentation of sugars and from conditioning of biogas to biomethane. Biogenic CO2
can also arise from other biomass conversion facilities mainly from combustion units. CO2
can alternatively be directly captured from air via Direct Air Capture (DAC).

The alternative pathways for the production of methanol using biomass, CO2 or fossil
feedstock are depicted in Figure 39.

Figure 39. Alternative pathways for methanol production using biomass, CO2 or fossil feedstock

In 2011, Carbon Recycling International (CRI) started operation of the George Olah
Renewable Methanol Plant242. It uses waste CO2 from the nearby geothermal power plant.
and currently produces 4,000 metric tonnes of renewable methanol per year. There is a
planned expansion to a larger plant. The other reagent hydrogen is produced by water
electrolysis fed by hydro and geothermal energy. The methanol product is used currently
for blending with gasoline. It has been reported that in comparison to fossil-fuel based
methanol, renewable (CO2-based) methanol reduces GHG emissions by 90%.242

248
Carus, M. et al. .Renewable Carbon is Key to a Sustainable and FutureOriented Chemical Industry, 2018.

132
Additionally, SABIC has a facility to capture and purify CO2 from its ethylene glycol plant
in Saudi Arabia, which is liquified and piped to associated plants at the site to produce
methanol and urea. Currently 4.2 million tonnes of CO2 per year is utilised with a scope to
increase further.249

Assessment with respect to fossil-based methanol – Advantages/disadvantages

bio-methanol

Production of methanol through MSW gasification by Enerkem (pathway I) is considered

as reference for comparison with fossil-based methanol here.

Technical performance: Bio-methanol is identical to fossil-based methanol (i.e. has the

same molecular structure). It offers direct drop-in replacement for fossil-based methanol.
Enerkem meets the highest international quality standards set by IMPCA (International
Methanol Producers and Consumers Association).250

Environmental performance: The production of biomethanol using waste results in

significant GHG emission reduction compared to fossil-based methanol (estimated as 40%
compared with natural gas251, without taking into account avoided emissions from the
diversion of waste from landfilling or incineration). In 2016, the facility obtained
certification from the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC)
system.252

There is no land use impact as readily available and abundant wastes and residues are
used as feedstock. It is claimed that the diversion of this waste to gasification resulted in
2.5 times reduction in GHG emissions compared to the previous waste management
system.253

Cost performance: Low or no cost feedstock, i.e. wastes and/or residues are used. The
Enerkem plant in Edmonton processes 100,000 dry tonnes of waste per year and produces
38 million litres combined methanol and ethanol per year250. Production costs are
competitive with those derived from fossil feedstock.254 It is reported to generate 65 million
CAN$/year in net economic benefits in the region and creation of jobs251. This success
resulted in new projects with one planned in Rotterdam. A waste-to-methanol plant is
planned with Enerkem partnering with Air Liquide, Nouryon, the Port of Rotterdam, and
Shell. The planned facility will convert up to 360,000 tons of waste into 220,000 tons (270
million litres) of bio-methanol.255

Other important considerations

Sustainability of biomass feedstock: Biomethanol can be produced from gasification of any

carbon source and allows utilisation of for example municipal solid waste, agricultural or
forestry residues. Biogas, obtained through anaerobic digestion, from landfills, wastewater
treatment plants, organic or animal wastes can also be used as a feedstock for methanol
production. Therefore, biomethanol can be produced without any demand on agricultural
land and thus its production does not have a negative effect on the availability and price
of food and does not lead to deforestation. Another advantage is the flexibility of the
gasification and anaerobic digestion units to feed and process different types of feedstock.

249
http://www.methanol.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Hans-Vander-Velpen-CO2-Potential-in-the-Methanol-
Business.pdf
250
https://enerkem.com/products/methanol/
251
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0960852417310763
252
https://enerkem.com/company/facilities-projects/
253
https://enerkem.com/company/about-us/
254
https://www.bio.org/sites/default/files/legacy/bioorg/docs/1500%20McConnell.pdf
255
https://www.biofuelsdigest.com/bdigest/2019/03/01/shell-joins-air-liquide-nouryon-in-enerkem-waste-to-
chemicals-project-in-rotterdam-the-complete-story/

133
Valorisation of residues and wastes: Biomethanol production through gasification or
anaerobic digestion allows creating value from waste and residual streams. Enerkem
focuses on the use of non-recyclable and non-compostable solid waste as feedstock.256 It
also allows diverting waste from landfills and thereby avoiding associated environmental
problems and methane emissions. This is supportive of the waste hierarchy and the circular
economy. It allows recycling carbon molecules in waste into added-value products.

Material vs energy use: Similar to the discussion presented for glycerol in the PG case,
MSW is listed under REDII, Annex IX and accordingly double counted in meeting targets of
minimum share of biofuels. Thereby, renewable fuels mandates around the world favour
the blending of biomethanol in fuels instead of use for chemicals. The principles of the
circular economy on the other hand favour the use of waste as feedstock for value-added
chemicals/materials. One of the actions in the Circular Economy Action Plan is the
development of the Sustainable Products Policy legal framework that will make use of the
Products’ Environmental Footprint (PEF).

BUILDING BLOCK: DEDICATED – LACTIC ACID + POLYMER: POLY LACTIC ACID (PLA)

Production route and major examples

Lactic acid is an example of dedicated bio-based chemicals which are chemicals produced
via a dedicated pathway that do not have an identical fossil-based chemical.257 As such,
they “can be used to produce products that cannot be obtained through traditional chemical
reactions. These products potentially offer unique and superior properties that are
unattainable with fossil-based alternatives”.258

Lactic acid is a chemical building block produced from fermentation of sugars. It is used in
the food and beverage sector as a preservative and pH adjusting agent. It is used in the
pharmaceutical and chemical industries as a solvent and a starting material in the
production of lactate ester. The biodegradable polymer polylactic acid (PLA) is produced
from polymerisation of lactic acid. It is 100% bio-based. PLA is gaining increasing interest
due to growing demand for bio-based and sustainable plastics. It finds applications in a
wide range of markets, notably packaging, consumer goods, 3D printing, textiles,
electronics and automotive.259

Dutch company Corbion is the global market leader in lactic acid and its derivatives, with
manufacturing facilities in the USA, Thailand, Brazil, Netherlands, and Spain.260 Through
its joint venture with Total it also has a PLA polymerization plant in Thailand with a 75,000
metric tonnes of production capacity of PLA per year.261 The global leader in PLA production
is NatureWorks. They produce 150,000 metric tonnes of PLA per year in their
manufacturing facility located in Blair, Nebraska, USA. Other companies active in PLA
production include Galactic, Henan Jindan and BBCA in China166.

Biorefinery pathways

Lactic acid is produced from fermentation of sugars that can come from sugar crops or
starch crops. At Total-Corbion PLA, the biomass used for lactic acid production is
sugarcane.262 Sugar produced from the sugar mill is fermented to produce lactic acid. In
the case of NatureWorks, maize is used as feedstock. The harvested maize goes through
wet milling where dextrose is produced via enzymatic hydrolysis. Dextrose is sent to the

256
https://enerkem.com/process-technology/environmental-and-social-acceptability/
257
https://www.roadtobio.eu/uploads/publications/articles/17-12-18-RoadToBio-Drop-in-paper.pdf
258
BIO-TIC.Overcoming hurdles for innovation in industrial biotechnology in Europe, Biobased Chemical Building
Blocks. 2014.
259
https://www.total.com/energy-expertise/projects/bioenergies/pla-bioplastic
260
http://www.corbion.com/
261
https://www.total-corbion.com/
262
http://www.corbion.com/about-corbion/sustainability/life-cycle-assessment

134
fermentation unit to produce lactic acid.263 Lactic acid exists as two optically active types
referred to as L lactic acid and D lactic acid, where L lactic acid is the dominating route
commercially. For production of PLA, lactic acid is converted to lactide which goes through
open ring polymerization to produce PLA.

The production route for lactic acid and PLA is under pathway A using sugar crops and
pathway B using starch crops and is depicted below:

Figure 40. One platform (C6 sugars) biorefinery pathway using sugar or starch crop for lactic acid and PLA

Alternatively, it is possible to use the sugars derived from lignocellulosic biomass

(pathway E) for fermentation into lactic acid.

Alternative pathways

As lactic acid is a dedicated bio-based chemical as explained above, an identical fossil-

based product doesn’t exist. PLA produced from lactic acid, based on the different
applications (e.g. drinking cups, food containers), can replace fossil-based plastics
polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). These can be
considered as fossil-based counterparts or benchmarks for PLA. They are primarily derived
in Europe from chemicals produced via the steam cracking of naphtha. PP is produced from
the polymerization of propylene. PET is produced from esterification of two intermediate
products monoethylene glycol (MEG) and purified terephthalic acid (PTA), followed by
polymerization. PS is produced from polymerization of styrene which is primarily attained
from ethylbenzene that is made by catalytic alkylation of benzene with ethylene. The major
alternative pathways for the production of PLA using biomass or fossil feedstock are
depicted in Figure 41.

263
https://www.natureworksllc.com/What-is-Ingeo/How-Ingeo-is-Made

135
 Figure 41. Alternative pathways for PLA production using biomass or fossil feedstock264

Assessment with respect to fossil-based counterparts – Advantages /

disadvantages of LA / PLA

Technical performance: PLA is one of the first renewable polymers able to compete with
existing polymers, combining unique functional properties like transparency, glossy
appearance, durability (scratch and impact resistance) and stiffness. It has good
processability (shape, mold, print). These special characters make PLA a perfect fit for
some market sections, such as: fibres, disposable cups, salad boxes, and cold food
packaging. Good breathability and moisture vapor permeability allows it to be used for
packaging for vegetables, fruits, and bread. It is approved for food contact. Its lower
density compared to PET allows lower weight to be used for the same application.265

However, it has relatively poor barrier properties, hence PLA as is not good for packaging
water sensitive products. The higher water permeability of PLA makes it not suitable to
replace PET in long shelf life applications. This is solved by blending with other polymers
or with the use of additives for example a new generation of high barrier PLA based flexible
substrates from Natureworks and Metalvuoto.266 PLA has also faced problems related to

264
For the production of benzene and xylene another source for catalytic reforming is pygas produced from naphtha
cracking. For simplicity this is omitted in Figure 23.
265
https://www.natureworksllc.com/~/media/News_and_Events/NatureWorks_TheIngeoJourney_pdf.pdf
266
https://www.natureworksllc.com/News-and-Events/Press-Releases/2016/03-17-16-Metalvuoto-Ingeo-PLA-barrier-
film

136
heat resistance. New type of resins was accordingly developed with higher heat resistance
based on stereochemically pure lactides by Total-Corbion.267 Natureworks has also
developed new formulations to enhance properties.268

Environmental performance: Compared to conventional fossil-based plastics, PLA offers

additional end-of-life options of biodegradability and composability.269 This allows organic
recycling and supports circular economy goals by diverting organic waste from landfill. PLA
conforms to the EN 13432 standard for industrial composting. Additionally, it is possible to
mechanically recycle PLA using near-infrared sorting, however this is currently not
performed as it requires a separate large-scale stream to be economical for the waste
processors. The EU Waste Directive can support in bringing this into practice. Furthermore,
it is possible to chemically recycle PLA back to its monomer lactic acid using hydrolysis268.
The lactic acid then can be converted back into PLA.

Compared to the fossil-based counterparts, it was estimated that PLA offers about a 70%
reduction in GHG emissions and 50% reduction in non-renewable energy use.270 Land use
change is an important consideration for climate impact. On request of Corbion, GRAS
GmBH conducted satellite imaging of the sugarcane plantation areas which was combined
with the mapping of high carbon stock and biodiversity protected areas. 271 This study lead
to the conclusion that Corbion’s sourcing areas did not show significant land
transformation.

Cost performance: PLA is not cost competitive with the conventional fossil-based plastics.
It will benefit from economy of scale with larger scale production and from further
optimization of the process. With the increased policy ambitions towards reducing
dependence on fossil resources and reducing the climate impact there is a growing demand
for PLA. Cost competitive availability of lignocellulosic biomass derived sugars will further
support this transition.

Other important considerations

Sustainability of biomass feedstock:

Corbion predominantly produces PLA bioplastic from raw sugar from sugarcane in Thailand.
NatureWorks produces PLA from corn in USA. Natureworks estimated that their PLA
production uses currently less than 0.05% of the annual global corn crop production, and
as such contributes little to no impact on international or local food chains. Similarly,
Corbion estimated that 0.12% of the Thai available arable land is used annually for the
sugarcane used in their plant270.

Corbion, is a member of both SEDEX- ensuring an ethical supply chain, and Bonsucro - a
global non-profit initiative dedicated to reducing the environmental and social impacts of
sugar cane production.272 Natureworks has a ISCC Plus certification - 3rd party certification
scheme certifying the sustainable production of renewable raw materials including the
certification of the chain of custody, and Working Landscapes Certificate - an independent
third-party scheme certifying sustainable agricultural production for emerging biomaterials
sectors, including the bioplastics industry.273

Lactic acid can be made from fermenting sugar from any sugar source. Looking into the
future, and to address possible future concerns with respect to feedstock competition with
food, both Natureworks and Total-Corbion has been conducting research on using sugars

267
https://www.total-corbion.com/about-pla/performance/
268
https://www.natureworksllc.com/Products/3-series-for-injection-molding/High-Heat-PLA-Technology
269
https://www.natureworksllc.com/What-is-Ingeo/Where-it-Goes
270
https://www.natureworksllc.com/What-is-Ingeo/Why-it-Matters
271
http://www.corbion.com/media/550170/corbion_whitepaper_feedstock_sourcing_11.pdf
272
https://www.total-corbion.com/about-pla/raw-material-sources/
273
https://www.natureworksllc.com/What-is-Ingeo/Where-Ingeo-Comes-From/Feedstock-Certifications

137
from lignocellulosic biomass (that corresponds to pathway E). Natureworks is also now
assessing using cutting-edge concepts for turning CO2 or CH4 directly into lactic acid.274

Biomass utilization efficiency:

Different types of bioplastics, produced using different production processes, require

different amounts of feedstock. In terms of feedstock efficiency, PLA is one of the most
efficient biopolymers: yielding 1 kg of PLA polymer per 1.6 kg of fermentable sugar
feedstock. Other bioplastics can require 2 – 3 times more sugar feedstock to produce the
same amount (1 kg) of plastic270. Feedstock efficiency has a positive impact on land use
and, in addition, all environmental impacts related to agriculture.

BUILDING BLOCK: DEDICATED – LACTIC ACID + POLYMER: POLY LACTIC ACID (PLA)

Production route and major examples

Acetic acid is widely used as a raw material in the production of industrial chemicals &
solvents. It is also used in food, pharmaceutical, textile, and cosmetics industry. It is a
drop-in chemical, chemically identical to fossil-based acetic acid. The market of acetic acid
is expected to expand owing to growing demand for applications like purified terephthalic
acid (PTA) and vinyl acetate monomer (VAM). PTA is used in the production of PET which
is used in packaging and textile industries. VAM is utilised in the production of chemicals
for solvents, paints and coatings and adhesives.275

There are diverse ways of producing acetic acid. It can be produced from ethanol derived
from fermentation or methanol derived from syngas. Godavari Biorefineries Ltd. restarted
its production of bio acetic acid at its Sakarwadi facility in Maharashtra from August 2018.
It is produced by oxidation of molasses-based ethanol.276 It is also possible to convert
sugars into acetic acid directly using acetogens (naturally occurring bacteria). ZeaChem in
USA works on this fermentation process using lignocellulosic biomass such as wood, straw
and corn stover as feedstock.277 This enables 100% carbon conversion.

Alternatively, acetic acid can be attained as a side-product from wood pulping. It can be
extracted from spent sulphite liquor from sulphite pulping and attained after several
purification steps. Lenzing produces acetic acid in this way.278

Biorefinery pathways

Different biorefinery pathways can lead to the production of acetic acid as depicted in
Figure 42. It can be produced from fermentation of sugars. It is possible to use the sugars
derived from sugar crops (pathway A), starch crops (pathway B) or from lignocellulosic
biomass (pathway E). The sugars are used for production of ethanol which then can be
directly oxidized to acetic acid or oxidized to acetaldehyde first and then converted to acetic
acid. As explained above, alternatively sugars can be converted to acetic acid directly by
acetogens.

Alternatively, acetic acid can be extracted from spent sulphite liquor from sulphite pulping
of wood (pathway D).

274
https://www.natureworksllc.com/What-is-Ingeo/Where-Ingeo-Comes-From
275
https://www.grandviewresearch.com/press-release/global-acetic-acid-market-
analysis#:~:text=The%20global%20acetic%20acid%20market,revenue%2C%20from%202020%20to%202027.&t
ext=VAM%20is%20the%20largest%20application%20market%20of%20acetic%20acid
276
http://news.bio-based.eu/re-startingproduction-of-bio-based-acetic-acid-from-august-2018/
277
https://www.biofuelsdigest.com/bdigest/2015/03/02/zeachem-biofuels-digests-2015-5-minute-guide/
278
https://www.lenzingindustrial.com/Application/the-lenzing-biorefinery

138
It is also possible to produce acetic acid through methanol (see section on methanol
above). Methanol is most typically generated from synthesis gas from pathway I attained
by gasification of lignocellulosic biomass, residues and wastes. Methanol is converted to
acetic acid through a catalytic carbonylation process.

Figure 42. Biorefinery pathways for acetic acid production

Alternative pathways

The alternatives to bio acetic acid are the fossil-based acetic acid and the CO2-based acetic
acid. Acetic acid produced from all these different options is chemically identical.

For the production of fossil-based acetic acid three chemical routes exist: methanol
carbonylation, acetaldehyde oxidation and alkane oxidation.279 Methanol carbonylation has
become the dominant fossil-based acetic acid production technology, accounting for over
65% of global capacity.280 This involves a liquid phase reaction between methanol and
carbon monoxide in the presence of catalyst. In the acetaldehyde oxidation route
acetaldehyde is first prepared by oxidation of ethylene followed by further oxidation to
form acetic acid. In the alkane oxidation route alkanes derived from petroleum, such as
butane and ethane, are catalytically oxidized to generate acetic acid (with several other
by-products)278.

Methanol can also be produced from CO2 as described in Figure 39 which then can be
converted to acetic acid using the same carbonylation step.

The alternative pathways for the production of acetic acid using CO2 or fossil feedstock are
depicted in Figure 43.

279
https://www.intechopen.com/online-first/production-pathways-of-acetic-acid-and-its-versatile-applications-in-the-
food-industry
280
https://www.icis.com/explore/resources/news/2007/10/31/9074780/acetic-acid-production-and-manufacturing-
process/

139
 Figure 43. Alternative pathways for acetic acid production using CO2 or fossil feedstock

Assessment with respect to fossil-based counterpart –

Advantages/disadvantages bio acetic acid

Technical performance: Bio acetic acid is 100% bio-based and it is identical to fossil-based
acetic acid (i.e. has the same molecular structure). It thereby offers direct drop-in
replacement for fossil-based acetic acid.

Environmental performance: Lenzing estimated its acetic acid (produced as a side-product

from sulphite pulping of wood, pathway D) to have a carbon footprint which is 85% lower
than that of fossil-based acetic acid.281 Looking at the fermentation routes it is seen that
GHG results are very sensitive to the choice of purification steps used in attaining the
required purity, if close to significantly better performance is required in comparison to
fossil-based acetic acid.282

Cost performance: Bio acetic acid production has higher production costs due to low
productivity of the route via methanol and ethanol. The direct fermentation to acetic acid
with 100% carbon efficiency would therefore be interesting. The production of acetic acid
from sulphite pulping has also high purification and separation requirements to extract it
from the spent liquor and bring it to the required specs.

Other important considerations

Sustainability of biomass feedstock: Acetic acid can be made from fermenting sugars. For
this sugar crops and starch crops are used. Looking into the future, and to address possible

281
https://lenzing-industrial.cdn.prismic.io/lenzing-industrial%2F1ca29763-5bd6-4e7c-a4fd-
b1d2383a4341_lenzing+for+biorefinery+products_acetic+acid_leaflet_output_rgb_preview_v1.0_20181012.pdf
282
https://biotechnologyforbiofuels.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13068-020-01784-y

140
future concerns with respect to feedstock competition with food, research on using sugars
from lignocellulosic biomass is ongoing. Also to increase the carbon efficiency and thereby
reduce feedstock conversion, direct fermentation routes from sugars to acetic acid (not via
ethanol) are investigated for example by ZeaChem276.

The production route of acetic acid by extraction from spent sulphite liquor does not have
any demand on agricultural land as it is derived from a residual stream used for energy.
For the production route through methanol derived from syngas, the biomass feedstock
considered is lignocellulosic biomass, residues or wastes with minimal or no competition
with food.

Valorisation of residues and wastes: Bio acetic acid production through extraction from
spent sulphite liquor allows creating value from residual streams. In most sulphite pulp
mills, the spent liquor is concentrated using multiple effect evaporators and then burned
for energy production. Lenzing looks at creating as much value as possible by converting
wood into spectrum of products including acetic acid, furfural, xylose, lignosulfonate,
sodium sulphate and soda ash besides their main product dissolving pulp277. Then the
remaining spent liquor is used for creation of heat and electricity.

Material vs energy use: Bio acetic acid can be produced through ethanol and methanol.
Renewable fuel mandates around the world favour the blending of biomethanol and ethanol
in fuels instead of use for chemicals. The principles of the circular economy on the other
hand favour the use for value-added chemicals/materials.

SURFACTANT: FATTY ALCOHOL ETHOXYLATE

Production route and major examples

Fatty alcohol ethoxylates are non-ionic surfactants widely used in process industries, such
as: personal care, household care, cosmetics, agrochemicals, textiles and paper. They are
used in a wide range of products, including: dishwashing liquids, laundry detergents,
cleaning agents, shampoos and shower gels.

They are produced from ethoxylation process where ethylene oxide is reacted with fatty
alcohols. In this ethoxylation process the fatty alcohol groups, like lauryl alcohol, stearyl
alcohol, behenyl alcohol, oleyl cetyl alcohol etc., are made to react with ethylene oxide
thereby leading to the formation of fatty alcohol ethoxylates, like lauryl alcohol ethoxylate,
stearyl alcohol ethoxylate, behenyl alcohol ethoxylate etc. All of these ethoxylate products
vary in physical appearance and have different properties, like pour point, cloud point,
density, viscosity, and flash point, depending on the level of ethoxylation process from
which they are formed.283

Fatty alcohols are derived from vegetable oils (and waste oils and fats) or from
petrochemical sources. Ethylene oxide used is typically obtained from petrochemical
sources. However, Croda made 100% bio-based fatty alcohol ethoxylate by producing bio-
ethylene oxide at its Atlas Point manufacturing site in the US and using bio-based fatty
alcohol180. The bioethylene oxide is produced from ethanol derived from corn or sugar cane.
The fatty alcohol is derived from palm oil, palm kernel oil or coconut oil.284

Biorefinery pathways

Fatty alcohol ethoxylates are produced from the reaction of fatty alcohols with ethylene
oxide. Fatty alcohols are produced under pathway C, process variant 4, as depicted in
Figure 24. The process involves the transesterification of the oil to give methyl esters which

283
https://www.rimpro-india.com/articles1/surfactants-widely-used-in-industrial-processes-fatty-alcohol-ethoxylate,-
fatty-acid-ethoxylate.html
284
https://www.crodahomecare.com/en-gb/products-and-applications/product-
finder/product/4302/ECO_1_Brij_1_C10

141
are then hydrogenated to give the fatty alcohols. If bio-based ethylene oxide is used, they
are produced under pathway A using sugar crops, and pathway B using starch crops by
dehydration of ethanol into ethylene followed by oxidising the ethylene into ethylene oxide.
The biorefinery pathway for the production of 100% bio-based fatty alcohol ethoxylate is
depicted below:

Figure 44. Biorefinery pathway for the production of 100% bio-based fatty alcohol ethoxylate

Alternatively, it is possible to use the sugars derived from lignocellulosic biomass

(pathway E) for fermentation.

Alternative pathways

Fatty alcohol ethoxylates surfactants are produced via ethoxylation of fatty alcohol with
ethylene oxide. The source of fatty alcohol (FA) could be either oil crops, waste oils and
fats or petrochemicals. The physical properties of the final product is the same (provided
that they have the same carbon chain length and ethoxylate distribution).285 For
petrochemical FA production two main options exist; the Oxo process and the Ziegler
process. The Oxo process involves using syngas for hydroformylation of long chain olefins.
The Ziegler process involves hydrogenation, ethylation, growth reaction, oxidation and
hydrolysis of ethylene284. The Oxo process is the dominant route for fossil-based FA
production.

285
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11743-016-1867-y

142
 Figure 45. Alternative pathways for fatty alcohol ethoxylate production using biomass or fossil feedstock286

Fatty alcohol ethoxylates can replace other non-ionic surfactants of alkyphenol epoxylates
with nonylphenol epoxilates being the major example. Nonylphenol ethoxylates are
produced by reaction of nonylphenol with ethylene oxide. Production of nonylphenols is
based on the reaction of phenols with isononene at elevated temperatures and in presence
of a catalyst.287 Nonylphenol ethoxylates discharged in wastewater after use are converted
to nonylphenols as a consequence of biological degradation. Nonylphenol has attracted
attention due to its persistence in the aquatic environments, its bioaccumulation and its
potential role as an endocrine disruptor (disrupt the natural balance of hormones in
affected organisms).288 In Europe, due to environmental concerns, the production and use
of nonylphenol and nonylphenol ethoxylates is prohibited. Alcohol ethoxylates are less
problematic for the environment due to their ability to degrade more quickly than
nonylphenols, and more and more products have been substituted over the years.289

286
For the production of olefins ethylene and propylene there is also input of ethane and propane as feedstock to
steam cracker. These are omitted in Figure 45 for simplicity.
287
https://edepot.wur.nl/174304
288
https://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0001-37652018000501903
289
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412008000081?via%3Dihub

143
Assessment with respect to fossil-based counterpart –
Advantages/disadvantages bio fatty alcohol ethoxylate

Technical performance: Fatty alcohol ethoxylates are non-ionic, biodegradable and have
low toxicity. They provide identical performance to fossil-based counterparts290.

Environmental performance: Croda - offering 100% bio-based fatty alcohol ethoxylate -

reports that a lower carbon footprint is achieved but the percentage of reduction is not
reported. It is indicated that renewable energy is used in manufacturing. The palm oil used
is RSPO certified. The product allows reduced reliance on fossil naphtha and natural gas as
raw materials.

An LCA study comparing palm oil derived fatty alcohol and fossil-based fatty alcohol shows
that the results are very much dependent on the agricultural practices in palm plantations
and palm oil mill operation. Land use change, POME end-of-life treatment and EFB end-of-
life treatment are key parameters that have an effect on the overall results and that will
determine environmental sustainability of the product284.

Cost performance: It is possible to produce partially bio-based fatty alcohol ethoxylates

cost competitively using fatty alcohols derived from vegetable oils.

Croda offers 100% bio-based fatty alcohol ethoxylate with the ethylene oxide derived from
corn-based ethanol. The resulting 100% bio-based surfactants are more expensive but
supported by USDA’s BioPreferred Program that establishes minimum bio-based content
in different product categories. The expansion of Croda’s Atlas Point facility generated
additional employment in the region.

Other important considerations

Sustainability of biomass feedstock: Fatty alcohol ethoxylates are produced from the
reaction of fatty alcohols with ethylene oxide. Fatty alcohol is produced using oil crops
which are associated with indirect changes to land use which leads to deforestation and
has a negative climate and biodiversity impacts. However, it is possible to derive fatty
alcohol using waste/residue fats, oil and greases which do not have indirect land use
effects. Furthermore, if the ethylene oxide is generated from sugar and starch crop based
ethanol via ethylene, this causes concern with respect to feedstock competition with food.
To address this concern the sugars can be extracted from lignocellulosic biomass (pathway
E).

FIBRE: MICROFIBRILLATED CELLULOSE

Production route and major examples

Microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) is produced from cellulose. For this usually wood pulp is
used. However, it is possible to use other sources of cellulose, such as agricultural residues
(sugar beet pulp), hemp and flax. Through a fibrillation process the cellulose fibres are
separated with shear forces into a network of fibrils which consists of long and thin fibres.291
This allows increase in surface area. When the MFC solution is concentrated, it forms a gel.
There are different methods used for producing MFC. They involve mechanical treatment
of the pulp with or without the use of enzymes or chemicals.292

Its use provides increased tensile strength and improved barrier properties.293 The unique
properties of MFC make it suitable for a wide variety of applications. MFC is currently being

290
Croda, https://www.crodapersonalcare.com/en-gb/sustainability/sustainable-manufacturing/eco-plant
291
https://weidmannfibretechnology.com/what-is-mfc/
292
https://www.exilva.com/blog/microfibrillated-cellulose-or-nanocellulose
293
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S014486171200447X

144
tested, among others, for paper and packaging (such as milk carton294), composites, paints
and coatings, food, cosmetics and textiles (Spinnova191 example). It is also gaining interest
in other domains such as electronics and medicine. Given the various (potential)
applications of MFC, it is experiencing strong growth.

The traditional pulp and paper producers have been expanding their product offerings and
becoming advanced biorefineries with a range of bioproducts. They have also recently
added MFC to their products list. Leading examples include: Borregaard Sarpsborg plant in
Norway295, Stora Enso Imatra plant in Finland296, and UPM in Finland297. There are also
several companies working on the development of MFC using pulp such as Weidmann Fibre
Technology298 in Switzerland and FibreLean technologies299 in UK. For the MFC production
these companies mostly use wood pulp as feedstock. CelluComp300 is an interesting
example in this regard because they produce MFC using sugar beet pulp in their plant in
Scotland.

Biorefinery pathway

Microfibrillated cellulose is produced under pathway D, process variant 3, as depicted in

Figure 46

Figure 46. Biorefinery pathway for the production of microfibrillated cellulose using wood

Alternative pathways

For its application in packaging, MFC can replace fossil-based plastic films and aluminium
foil used as barrier layer in paperboard packaging. MFC also competes with alternatives
produced from cellulose fibres. By converting a small portion of wood pulp to MFC and
mixing it into the mass, you can make paperboard with the same strength, opacity and
brightness but use less fibre293. It was seen 2% of MFC could replace 15% of conventional
fibre.301

294
https://www.storaenso.com/en/products/bio-based-materials/mfc-for-packaging
295
https://www.exilva.com/about/production
296
https://www.storaenso.com/en/products/bio-based-materials
297
https://www.upm.com/SysSiteAssets/documents/responsibility/certificate-finder/statements/upm-nano-statement-
pulp.pdf
298
https://weidmannfibretechnology.com/
299
https://www.fibrelean.com/
300
https://www.cellucomp.com/
301
https://www.cellucomp.com/blog/article/curran-a-microfibrillated-cellulose-mfc-wonder-product-1

145
Assessment with respect to alternatives – Advantages/disadvantages of MFC

Technical performance: MFC is finding increased use, as a performance enhancer in paints

and coatings, personal care, and construction owing to its specific characteristics like
improve rheology, stability, water holding capacity, robustness in harsh environments.302
This allows green replacement for non-organic performance additives.

It is shown that with MFC it is possible to produce lighter packaging products that are
durable and of high-quality. It provides strong packaging with effective barrier against
oxygen and grease293. MFC cross-links with fibres in paper and cardboard packaging and
tissue, making them stronger, stiffer and lighter300.

Environmental performance: MFC is a non-toxic product, safe for food contact. It is

biodegradable. Studies assessing the environmental performance of MFC with respect to
reference products are ongoing. The preliminary results show that lower GHG emissions
can be achieved.303

It was also shown that it is possible to reduce the raw material usage with MFC while
maintaining the technical performance requirements.304 This is supportive of the circular
economy. Furthermore, it is stated that aluminium film in paperboard packaging has a
significant impact on the overall environmental footprint (about 50%) and its replacement
with MFC could lower the footprint. 305

Cost performance: It is claimed that MFC offers paper makers the opportunity to become
more cost competitive with the possibility of cost savings and production of innovative end
products.306 This is especially owing to the possibility to provide the same performance
using less raw material. There are good market prospects for MFC with a wide range of
applications. Production in larger volumes will lower unit costs through economy of scale.

Other important considerations

Sustainability of biomass feedstock: MFC is commonly derived from wood. Companies are
paying attention to source wood from forests that are managed in sustainable manner.
They are ensuring this with third-party systems and forest certifications such FSC and
PEFC.307

CelluComp succeeded in producing MFC using sugar beet pulp. They can extract the
cellulose from the root vegetables with a significantly less energy intensive process than
that normally used on wood.308 The MFC product produced offers as much strength as wood
based MFC product. The possibility to use agricultural residues for MFC is also interesting
from a price point of view.

RESIN: LIGNIN BASED PHENOLIC RESINS

Production route and major examples

Lignin-based phenolic resins, also called phenol formaldehyde resins, are a group of very
versatile polymers with excellent physical characteristics (e.g. low flammability, high

302
https://www.exilva.com/application-areas
303
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/320035990_Life_cycle_assessment_of_microfibrillated_cellulose_from_sp
ruce
304
https://www.storaenso.com/en/newsroom/news/2019/6/new-natura-enhanced-with-mfc
305
https://www.storaenso.com/en/newsroom/news/2017/2/a-future-for-mfc
306
https://fibrelean.com/microfibrillated-cellulose-proven-to-create-value-in-full-scale-papermaking-2/
307
https://www.storaenso.com/en/sustainability/environmental/forests-plantations-and-land-use
308
https://www.cellucomp.com/blog/article/when-is-an-mfc-a-unique-mfc

146
temperature resistance and low humidity absorption).309 Main applications include
adhesives, composites and insulation.

The feedstock used is lignin. Lignin replaces fossil phenol and formaldehyde in phenolic
resins. The replacement level of phenol by lignin can be up to 50%. Currently commercially
available lignin in industrial scale for this is the Kraft lignin from wood (from pathway D).
With the further development of biorefinery concepts using a variety of lignocellulosic
biomass (such as short rotation coppice, agricultural and forestry residues) other lignin
types will become available. It is important to tailor the pretreatment process and achieve
good separation of the lignin from the cellulose and hemicellulose without changing it
chemically or physically (from pathway E).

UPM is producing on a commercial scale 100% lignin based phenolic resin. With their WISA
BioBond bonding solution fossil-based phenol is replaced with bio-based lignin in the
adhesive used in the production of plywood.310 They have been using lignin based phenolic
resins in their plywood production since 2017.311 They also offer UPM BioPiva™ lignin
(softwood Kraft lignin) for resin producers in combination with their proprietary, industrially
proven resin technology.312 They deliver to many of the biggest resin producers worldwide,
for example to Prefere Resins in Europe, one of the frontrunners for lignin-based plywood-
adhesives manufacturing.313

Arpa Industriale launched Bloom, a new core technology for Arpa HPL (high-pressure
laminate) and FENIX NTM® product lines used for interior design, in May 2019.314 They are
made of paper and thermosetting resins based on phenol. The replacement level of phenol
by lignin can be up to 50% in these products with Bloom.

StoraEnso produces refined Kraft lignin in their Sunila Mill in Finland and it is sold with the
name Lineo™.315 They are working on developing lignin-based resin since 2017 in very
close collaboration with Latvijas Finieris, a global leading developer, producer and supplier
of birch plywood products.316

Companies are searching for increasing the replacement percentage of phenol with lignin
more than 50% and in the future achieve a fossil-free resin.

Biorefinery pathways

The commercial production route of lignin based phenolic resin is using Kraft lignin as
feedstock. Kraft lignin is produced from black liquor which is a side product attained from
Kraft pulping of wood. Lignin can be recovered from black liquor through the addition of
an acidifying agent such as carbon dioxide and sulfuric acid, followed by filtration and
washing. LignoBoost317 is a two-stage process where after precipitating with CO2 and
filtering, the filter cake is redissolved with spent wash water and sulfuric acid. The resulting
slurry is once again dewatered and washed, with acidified wash water, to produce virtually
pure lignin cakes. In the LignoForce process, black liquor is oxidized before the acidification
step.318 This process is under pathway D and is depicted below:

309
https://www.ecologic.eu/sites/files/publication/2018/3513-top-emerging-bio-based-products.pdf
310
https://www.wisaplywood.com/campaigns/wisa-biobond/
311
https://www.upm.com/about-us/for-media/releases/2017/10/upm-plywood-starts-using-a-new-sustainable-wisa-
biobond-gluing-technology/
312
https://www.upmbiochemicals.com/products/lignin/resin-industry-solutions/
313
https://prefere.com/en/company/news/biopolymers-put-to-industrial-use-at-phenolic-resin-producer-prefere-resins
314
https://www.fenixforinteriors.com/de/news/fenix-ntm-bloom-beyond-surface
315
https://www.storaenso.com/en/products/lignin/lineo
316
https://www.storaenso.com/en/newsroom/news/2020/6/developing-a-lignin-based-resin-for-plywood
317
https://www.valmet.com/pulp/other-value-adding-processes/lignin-separation/lignoboost-process/
318
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acssuschemeng.6b00907

147
 Figure 47. Two platform (pulp and black liquor) biorefinery pathway using wood for lignin-based phenolic resin

Alternatively, lignin can be generated with different isolation methods (e.g. organosolv,
enzymatic pretreatment, dilute acid pretreatment) from different sources of lignocellulosic
biomass (such as short rotation coppices, agricultural and forestry residues). This is under
pathway E. Potential of using the lignin derived from this pathway for resin was studied
at lab scale. Lignin produced from dilute acid pretreatment of corn stover was used to
replace 100% of phenol in the adhesive formulation.319

Recently, it has also been investigated to use pyrolytic oil produced from pyrolysis
(pathway J). Lignin fraction of pyrolysis oil is separated and used as a substitute for fossil
phenol in phenol-formaldehyde resins.320

Alternative pathways

The conventional phenolic resin is produced using 100% fossil-based phenol in formulation.
Currently only partial phenol substitution (typically up to 50%) is achieved in commercial
lignin-based phenolic resin products. Lignin is not a drop-in substitute for phenol,
formulations need to be redeveloped for lignin. There are currently technical challenges
(solubility, viscosity) that prevent reaching higher substitution levels. There are studies
ongoing to tackle these challenges, such as looking at further upgrading of lignin used as
feedstock in resin production.

Assessment with respect to fossil-based phenolic resins –

Advantages/disadvantages lignin-based phenolic resins

Technical performance: Tests confirmed by the producers show that the products
manufactured with the lignin based phenolic resins have the same technical properties with
the 100% fossil-based phenolic resins. At UPM, rigorous field tests have proven that

319
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/app.45124
320
https://bio4products.eu/process/

148
plywood manufactured with the new lignin-based WISA BioBond bonding solution meets
all the technical performance requirements (such as strength, durability and water
resistance) for industrial-use plywood309. The properties of the resin can be adjusted
according to the purpose of use (interior vs. exterior use etc.). Results of industrial
production trials by Latvijas Finieris show that all technical properties of RIGA Plywood
remain unchanged when the environmentally friendly glue RIGA ECOlogical is applied,
containing Stora Enso’s kraft lignin Lineo™.321 Arpa also confirms that the quality and
features (resistant to scratches, abrasion, dry heat, acid-based solvents and household
reagents) are maintained with the replacement of phenol with lignin.322

Environmental performance: Substituting fossil-based phenol with lignin allows reducing

dependence on fossil resources and reduce climate impact. Arpa estimated that with the
substitution of 50% fossil-based phenol with lignin, about 45% reduction in GHG emissions
and 40% reduction in primary energy use can be achieved compared to conventional 100%
fossil-based phenolic resin.322

The efficient use of wood raw material is an important factor affecting the carbon footprint
of wood-based products. Valorising lignin to its full potential in material applications is
supportive of this and of the circular economy.

Cost performance: Due to the use of lower cost feedstock lignin rather than fossil-based
phenol allows it to have a lower price than the conventional product. Process improvements
in the production of the resin and in the production of the lignin feedstock give an
opportunity to further increase cost competitiveness.

Other important considerations

Sustainability of biomass feedstock: No food crops are used as feedstock thus its
production doesn’t have a negative effect on the availability and price of food. Currently,
the feedstock lignin is derived from wood from forests. It is important that the forests are
sustainably managed, and no deforestation occurs. The key objectives of sustainable
forestry are efficient production of high-quality wood, maintaining and enhancing
biodiversity and protection of water and the recreational and various other uses of forests.
The forests and plantations owned by UPM are 100% certified by credible, third-party
verified schemes including forest certification schemes of FSC and PEFC.323 Also Lineo of
StoraEnso is made from sustainably sourced wood with FSC and PEFC certifications314. This
verifies that the wood supplied to their mills is sustainably sourced, legally logged and
procured according to the requirements of international forest certification schemes.

Valorisation of residues and wastes: It is also possible to produce lignin from lignocellulosic
residues such as agricultural and forestry residues. Biorefinery developments are taking
place for this as explained in pathway E. The Dawn Technology of Avantium is an example
for this197. Also from pathway J, lignin fraction of pyrolysis oil produced from lignocellulosic
sources can be utilized in the production of the resin.

Material vs. energy use: Currently lignin is derived from Kraft pulp mills from the side-
stream black liquor which is conventionally burned for energy. However, much more is
available than needed to cover own energy requirements. Lignin is valuable as feedstock
for materials. It has already found its way into a rapidly growing number of industrial
applications such as resins, adhesives, asphalt, carbon fibres, and polyurethanes. The
lignin based phenolic resins showcases the innovative use of industrial side streams in a
circular economy.

321
https://www.finieris.com/en/products/riga-ecological
322
https://www.arpaindustriale.com/sites/default/files/doc_micro/arpa_bloom-hr.pdf
323
https://www.upm.com/responsibility/forests/our-promise/

149
 Table 28. High-level assessment

Advantages/disadvantages to fossil alternatives

Bio-based Drop-in or Alternative (fossil or CO2 based)
Biorefinery pathways Other considerations
chemical/material Dedicated pathways Technical Environmental Economic
performance performance performance
Bio-based chemicals

C
glycerol • Use of oil crops (deforestation), need to
hydrogenolysis about 60% GHG Cost switch to waste fats
Propylene glycol hydration of propylene
Additive Drop-in Fossil Identical reduction (pathway C); competitive
(PG) sugar oxide • Competes with the energy use of
A/B/E 100% bio-based (CC)
hydrogenolysis residue crude glycerol

Building 1,4 Butanediol fermentation of

via acetylene, butadiene, about 60% GHG
Not CC (less
• Use of sugar or starch crops (now),
Drop-in A/B/E Fossil maleic anhydride and Identical reduction (pathway B); need to switch to lignocellulosic
block (1,4 BDO) sugars than double)
propylene 100% bio-based biomass
purification of coal gasification & natural • Allow valorisation of residues and
D Fossil about 40% GHG
side-stream gas + steam reforming Cost wastes, support waste hierarchy and
Building reduction compared to
Methanol Drop-in Identical competitive the circular economy
block gasification, reaction with hydrogen NG (pathway I from
I CO2 (CC) • MSW - use for energy supported,
chemical conv. from electrolysis MSW); 100% bio-based
compete with material use
• Biodegradable & recyclable
about 70% GHG
Building Lactic acid (LA)
Dedicated A/B/E
fermentation of
Fossil
PP/PS/PET, derived from Unique, both
reduction (pathway A or Not CC
• High biomass utilization efficiency
block + PLA sugars steam cracking of naphtha pos. & neg. • Use of sugar or starch crops, need to
B); 100% bio-based
switch to lignocellulosic
fermentation of via methanol, • Direct fermentation route will increase
A/B/E Fossil
sugars acetaldehyde and alkane efficiency for A/B/E
about 85% GHG
Solvent Acetic acid Drop-in D
Extract from
CO2 via methanol Identical reduction (pathway D); Not CC
• Pathway D option allows creating value
spent liquor from residual stream
100% bio-based
carbonylation • Use of methanol or ethanol for chemical
I instead of energy use
of methanol
reaction of lower environmental • Biodegradable and low toxicity
fatty alcohol by Oxo or
Fatty alcohol C+
fatty alcohol
Ziegler process + ethylene
footprint (pathway • Use of oil crops (deforestation), need to
Surfactant Drop-in from oils + Fossil Identical A/B+C); 100% bio- Not CC switch to waste fats
ethoxylate A/B/E oxide derived from steam
ethylene oxide based with bio- ethylene • Use of sugar or starch crops, need to
cracking of naphtha
from sugars oxide use switch to lignocellulosic
Bio-based materials
• Provide the same performance using
Unique,
Microfibrillated fibrillation of plastic films and lower GHG emissions; less raw material
Fibre Dedicated D Fossil performance Good prospect
cellulose (MFC) cellulose aluminium foil 100% bio-based • Possibility to use agricultural residues
enhancer
beside wood pulp
recovery from
D
black liquor about 45% GHG • Reduced toxicity of resin
Resin
Lignin based
Dedicated E
pretreatment
Fossil Phenol-based
Unique, same reduction (pathway D); Cost • Allow material use of lignin
phenolic resins lignocellulose performance up to 50% phenol competitive • Possibility to use lignocellulosic residues
pyrolysis oil substitution rather than wood
J
lignin fraction

150
3.6 Task 3 - Identification of technical barriers & measures to overcome these barriers
for market deployment of material and chemical based biorefineries

INTRODUCTION

In Task 3, both technical barriers & measures to overcome these barriers that could
potentially hinder or support the development of material and chemical based biorefineries
are identified. The general technical barriers for biorefineries will be presented following
the main elements of classification system proposed in WP 1 (feedstock, conversion
process, platform and product). On the other hand, specific examples of technical
barriers are presented for the 11 pathways mentioned in WP 3- Task 1.

During the second SAG (Stakeholder Advisory Group) meeting that took place on the 24th
of June 2020, the following question was posed to the stakeholders: What specific technical
barriers of biorefineries would you like to be considered in this project? This information
has been taken into consideration in the compilation of technical barriers.

The comments received were:

• Consider aspects of learning curves and its impact on process improvement.

• Required connection (business and spatial) between biorefineries and chemical

industries as buyers of semi-final products.

• Setting up a supply chain that ensures regular collection of feedstocks and their
delivery to the biorefineries is crucial.

• How to move on from one input-one output biomass conversion processes to multi-
entry and multi-output biorefinery systems?

• More focus on technology that is economically feasible and that can be implemented
within the current markets/regulations.

As starting point several documents discussing technical barriers & measures to overcome
the barriers for the biorefineries were reviewed. A mixture of sources was considered,
including:

• Star COLIBRI. European Biorefinery Joint Strategic Research Roadmap for 2020, C.
Luguel, 2011

• Star COLIBRI. Joint European Biorefinery Vision 2030, C. Luguel, 2011.

• Bioenergy: Biorefineries Roadmap as part of the German Federal Government

action plans for the material and energetic utilisation of renewable raw materials,
2012.

• ETIP Bioenergy: Opportunities and Challenges for Broadening Biomass Feedstock in

Europe, November 2019.

• JCR: Biomass production, supply, uses and flows in the European Union. First results
from an integrated assessment, EUR 28993 EN, 2018.

• IEA Task 42: Natural Fibres and Fibres-based material biorefineries. Status Report
2018.

• IEA Task 42: Bio based chemicals Update, February 2020.

• Bio-based products -from idea to market- 15 EU success stories. February 2019

151
 • BIOTIC: A roadmap to a thriving industrial biotechnology sector in Europe, 2015

• Recent scientific publications: K. Kirtania. Ch.4 Thermochemical Conversion

Processes for Waste Biorefinery, Waste Biorefinery, Elsevier, 2018.

GENERAL BARRIERS & MEASURES

This section describes barriers and measures to overcome these related to:

• Feedstock

• Conversion process

• Platform and Product

Feedstock-related technical barriers & measures

In any conversion process, securing sustainable feedstock is crucial for the operation and
economic viability. In the case of biorefineries, enough quality biomass feedstocks should
be made available at the right time and at the right place for successful large-scale market
deployment.

The EU is an overall net importer of biomass. European exports of animal and processed
products, as well as solid wood products and paper and paperboard, are outweighed by
imports of plant-based food, solid biofuels, fish, seafood, and algae.324 The availability of
biomass in Europe is one of the main barriers that could hinder the large-scale market
deployment of biorefineries. An integrated feedstock supply system is required in
order to provide feedstock in a sustainable way at reasonable cost.

The technical barriers for using biomass as a feedstock are often associated to the nature
of the raw materials. The very complex mixture of organic compounds (poor in hydrogen
and rich in oxygen), presence of inorganics and vast amount of water in the biomass
require the use of different pre-treatment/valorisation processes.325 Basic and applied
research to prevent the decomposition, extend the storage life and facilitate its conversion
is still under development and improvement.

In addition to these technical challenges, there are also significant infrastructural barriers
that are associated with the development of the European agricultural infrastructure for
the harvesting, collection and storage of the biomass and for residues/wastes
management. Considering that biomass availability is relatively limited in Western Europe,
strengthening the biomass availability in countries of Central and Easter Europe (CEE)
region to improve the sustainable biomass production and supply by increasing
infrastructure and implementing innovative solutions should be considered.

In a recent report326, regarding 15 EU success stories on the development of bio-based

products from idea to market , it is mentioned that for several bio-based products there is
a medium-long term feedstock strategy available that includes the possibility to shift to
secondary biomass feedstocks to avoid food competition and to reduce production cost.

The following table summarises the identified technical barriers & measures to overcome
the barrier that exist related to the feedstock cultivation, harvesting, mobilisation, and the
barriers for the use of secondary biomass and residues.

324
https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/science-update/biomass-production-supply-uses-and-flows-european-union
325
The Federal Government. Biorefineries roadmap as part of the German Federal Government action plans for the
material and energetic utilisation of renewable raw materials. May 2012.
326
Bio-based products -from idea to market- 15 EU success stories.European Comission Directorate Bioeconomy.
February 2019.

152
 Table 29. Feedstock related technical barriers.

Technical Barrier Measures to overcome the barrier

Limited biomass cultivation due to restricted Develop efficient and sustainable biomass production: sustainable
land availability for non-food uses in Europe intensification of crop/forest/grassland by improvement yield,
nutrients, efficient harvesting.
Support and exploit the bioeconomy potential of rural areas in Central
and Eastern Europe (CEE).327 CEE region requires innovation,
technology and infrastructure to increase the biomass productivity in
a sustainable way.
Implement the conditioning (afforestation) and use of marginal
European land.

Limited biomass cultivation due to climate Consider the use of resilient species to cold winter, long heat waves
changes that lead to drier circumstances. summer, severe drought, diseases and look for species that can grow
on marginal land with lower input needs.328

Inefficient biomass harvesting methods. Adopt harvesting technologies to access difficult terrains (especially in
Central and Southern Europe).
Use Information Communication Technologies (ICT) to provide
relevant information regarding optimal time for harvesting.

Degradation and loss of biomass quality due Improve storage management and technology. Different types of
to storage problems. biomass required different storage alternatives.329

Complex nature of the biomass feedstocks. Implement the use of multiple and more advance pre-treatments and
Leading to problems like low product conversion processes.
concentration, multiple side products and Investigate the potential role of biocommodities with standardised
energy intensive and expensive downstream properties, e.g. pyrolysis oil, pellets.330
processes.

Unstable biomass supply. Biomass supply can Implement systems for continuous supply. Biorefineries near to the
be limited by seasonality, poor infrastructure harbour for imported biomass and near to rural areas to optimize
of (limitations on biomass imports, storage storage and transportation.
and mobility), low quality and cost. Use Information Communication Technologies (ICT) to provide
relevant knowledge regarding biomass in the entire European supply
chain.331

Limited and non-optimised secondary Develop a strong and sustainable residues management network to
(residual) biomass management and poorly increase utilisation of residual streams and by-products as feedstock.
developed supply chain for the use of Enhance data availability for the identification, tracking and current
residues and recycling (collection, transport uses residual biomass streams.
and processing) Consider European recycling sites with optimized technology

Uncertainty regarding the guarantee of lower Promote the evaluation and development of integrated pathways to
environmental impact (not only GHG). increase overall efficiency and lower environmental (considering
residual streams and recycled products).

Uncertainty regarding real cost of processing Evaluate the real (extra) cost of collecting, sorting, cleaning and
secondary feedstocks (residues and recycled processing of secondary biomass.
bio-based materials).332

Conversion process related technical barriers & measures

The conversion processes are the core steps for the transformation of biomass into goods
or services (these are shown in the Biorefinery Classification for chemical and materials
focused biorefineries developed in WP 1). The development and optimization of these
processes (from the pre-treatment, primary refining, secondary refinery, purification,
product conditioning and recovery and re-use of by-product streams) is very important to
exploit the potential of biomass for added value applications in this case of biomaterials
and biochemicals.

327
BIOEAST. Vision paper. 2018.
328
STAR-COLIBRI. Strategic Targets for 2020 - Collaboration Initiative on Biorefineries. 2011.

329
IEA Bioenergy Task 43. Dry matter losses during biomass storage Measures to minimize feedstock degradation.
2019.
330
Source: October workshop part 1
331
ICT-BIOCHAIN. ICT Tools in Efficient Biomass Supply Chains for Sustainable Chemical Production. 2019.
332
IEA Bioenergy Task 42. Bio-based chemicals. A 2020 update. 2020.

153
Biorefinery conversion processes still have a significant optimisation potential which is
needed to be able to compete with current fossil refineries and chemical plants, many of
which employ mature technology. Biorefinery conversion processes must overcome
significant costs and productivity barriers. The shift in raw materials (from fossil to
renewables) requires the development of a new set and combinations of conversion
pathways, processes, and reaction media to promote the development and design of novel
catalytic processes.

Although, an important number of conversion processes are currently being investigated

for all sorts of biorefineries (e.g. lignin biomass fractionation approaches and the chemo
catalytic upgrading of biomass-derived building blocks, like furfural or hydroxy methyl
furfural HMF), many of them are still in a very early stage of development. Challenges such
as product selectivity, stability, or technological scalability remain important topics of
research.

Table 30. Conversion Process related technical barriers & measures.

Technical Barrier Measures to overcome the barrier

Constricted pre-treatment and conversion processes Focus on improving the pre-treatment and primary conversion
exclusive to produce a single product, reducing the processes to extract a larger amount of usable material fractions
possibility of other outlets (e.g. development of toward diverse products to increase the bio-based product
sulphur free lignin to preserve the native structure of portfolio.
lignin for its use in different applications).333 Establish decentralised pretreatment processes (close to the
biomass production) suitable for multiple biorefineries to produce
chemicals and materials.334

Limited development of catalyst for thermochemical Develop R&D strategies for catalysts with high yields, selectivity
processes towards biomass upgrading. and stability towards relevant products335 to increased feedstock
flexibility in the conversion processes.

Biochemical processes with low product Develop and enhance the use of biotechnology to improve
concentration and multiple side products production enzymatic pathways (biocatalyst) in biochemical processes.336
leading to energy intensive and expensive
downstream processes (recovery and purification
steps).

Limited development of out the box biotechnology Promote R&D towards hybrid processes that look for integrated
for simultaneous biodegradation and conversion (biodegradation–biotransformation) to minimize
biotransformation of biomass (e.g. aromatic acids environmental waste and add value to agro-industrial residues
from insoluble lignocellulose, vanillin, coniferol (a via production of valuable chemicals 338
chemical building from sugar cane bagasse)337

Bottlenecks towards scale-up of new technology Enhance R&D investments for the research and engineering
such as: teams and extend the collaboration with expertise that is
validation of technologies at demonstration and pre- complementary to in-house know-how.
commercial scale is expensive. Collect reliable information or data from pilot scale to generate
research teams with limited engineering know-how rules of thumb or develop Early Stage Techno-economic Analysis
for scale-up. and modelling which can be disseminated to help commercial
Limited biomass quality and availability for the scale up.
scale-up. Make available enough public money for co-financing
pilot/demonstration plants. Continue with flagship initiatives for
public-private partnerships projects (e.g. BBI JI projects).

Economically unfavourable thermochemical Integrate thermochemical processing with other conversion

processes to convert secondary biomass (residues) technologies (i.e., biochemical), and evaluate more economic
to added value products. alternatives.

Limited integration of primary and secondary Consider the integration of conversion processes in existing
conversion processing to exploit process integration industrial facilities or industrial complexes (bottom-up or
(improve energy efficiency, water use and reduce brownfield approach, see Task1).
waste generation).

333
J. Fernández-Rodríguez, et al. Chapter 7 - Lignin Separation and Fractionation by Ultrafiltration, Separation of
Functional Molecules in Food by Membrane Technology. 2019.
334
Source: October workshop part 1
335
V. Aristizabal -Marulanda , et al. Biofuels, Bioprod. Bioref. 13:789-808, 2019.
336
Star-COLIBRI. European Biorefinery Joint Strategic Research Roadmap. 2020.
337
P. Chattopadhyay, G. Banerjee and S. K. Sen , J. Cleaner Prod., 182 , 272-279. 2018.
338
Tramontina R. et al. Consolidated production of coniferol and other high-value aromatic alcohols directly from
lignocellulosic biomass. Green Chem., 22,144, 2020.

154
Platform and Product related technical barriers

We have grouped the platform and product categories of the Biorefinery Classification
developed in WP 1 because platform also refers to the “intermediate” product. These
intermediates are subsequently processed in the secondary refining process to finished or
semi-finished products.

Bio-based products are perceived to be environmentally friendly products with the potential
to contribute to the reduction of GHG emissions and to reduce the fossil resource demand.
The main concerns regarding the use of bio-based products are related to the balance
between their technical performance, price and assurance of real environmental benefits.

Technical developments in the biorefinery sector will continue to generate new knowledge
and to improve products performance. Price competitiveness is also expected to improve
via economies of scale, when the products are produced at large scale, leading to lower
production cost for biorefinery products in the future.

Table 31. Platform (intermediate product) and Product related technical barriers.

Technical Barrier Measures to overcome the barrier

Relative low diversification of intermediate Improve separation and extraction processes for valuable ingredients.
products into new products due to loss of Find milder operational conditions during pre-treatment and primary
functionalities or properties during the conversion process to prevent the loss of relevant functionalities and
processing. properties in the intermediate products and to reduce energy inputs.

Bio-based products sometimes have a Perform (mechanical or chemical) modifications/treatments to improve

lower quality and lower performance product properties/functionalities and broader the applications to other
compared to conventional alternatives markets (e.g. modified starches for food, paper, textile & cosmetics
(mostly fossil based). applications)339.
Modification of conversion processes to prevent excessive biomass
damage that could affect product properties and hinder getting new
added value (e.g. proteins denaturalisation).

Lack of cost competitiveness when Optimisation and integration of the conversion processes and upgrade
providing the same functionally can only be of biomass side-streams to high value products.
achieved at higher cost (e.g. bio-based In some cases, like the case of PLA increasing capacity of the plant is
acetic acid). required to reduce cost by reducing the capital portion of the
production costs (on a per tonne basis).340

Difficulties to demonstrate the bio-based Involve external partners downstream in the value chain at an early
product performance or new functionalities stage of the product development. Implement an EU-level
(costly and lengthy testing) (e.g. carboxy matchmaking programme matching companies in different parts of the
Methyl Inulin (CMI) from chicory roots). 341 value chain with each other.

Lack of recognition of bio-based content in Certification and standardisation for bio-based products including the
products. measure of the bio-based content in products.

Lack of information and recognition of Development of instruments to communicate about the benefits of bio-
environmental benefits. based products to public procurers and consumers.

PATHWAY SPECIFIC TECHNICAL BARRIERS & MEASURES

Examples of technical barriers for the specific pathways described in Task 3.1, are
mentioned, in the following Table. It is important to mention that in order to develop
flexible, resilient and efficient biorefineries, a connection between the different Pathways
is sometimes required.

Pathways A-D are bottom-up pathways of a high TRL level and are widely commercialised.
Although they are commercial, still some technical barriers are identified that can be

339
The Federal Government. Biorefineries roadmap as part of the German Federal Government action plans for the
material and energetic utilisation of renewable raw materials. May 2012.
340
Bio-based products -from idea to market- 15 EU success stories. February 2019.
341
CMI is a building block for the production of antiscale agents with applications in detergents and water treatment
obtained from inulin that is not suitable for human consumption develop by Cosun Biobased Product.

155
tackled to further optimize their overall business cases and environmental footprint. For
pathways A-C, similar barriers and measures to overcome the barrier were identified.
These pathways are group in one group.

Platforms E-K are top-down pathways mostly still at a pre-commercial, i.e. lower TRL,
level. Here technical barriers are identified that need to be tackled before commercial
deployment can be achieved.

Table 32. Pathway specific technical barriers and measures to overcome these.

Pathway Name Barriers Measures to overcome the barrier

A, B, C One platform Low European production of important raw Look for unexploited or new sources of
TRL 9 (C6 sugars) materials (soybean oil, palm oil, coconut oil, biomass in Europe to avoid food and
biorefinery using sugar cane, cassava, corn). High imports from fuel competition and decrease biomass
sugar crops tropical-subtropical countries increasing the imports. (e.g. local crops, local
environmental concerns of the primary residues)
One platform feedstock. Identify connections between different
(starch) Limited integration (optimization) between pathways (pathways A-B starch are
biorefinery using primary and secondary processing. This is not easily converted to sugars) or
starch crops always possible because the primary processing (pathway C-G integration of the oil
for imported raw material is done outside platform) can significantly improve the
One platform Europe. overall process economics and
(oil) biorefinery Insufficient diversification of by products and compensate products demands.343
using oil crops intermediates products like glycerol, sugar beet Implement the biorefinery concept to
and other residues, bagasse,), into added value secondary use by-products and intermediated and
organic products causes large by-product generation and develop added value secondary
/residues (fats, oversupply. (e.g. glycerol during biodiesel products (e.g. glycerol to chemicals,
oil and greases) production or high production of DDGS during sugar beet pulp or DGGD or to food
ethanol production) 342 additives, chemicals or materials).

D Two-platform Limited revalorisation of spend liquor & pulp Develop advanced & flexible pulp mills
TRL 9 (pulp & spent using advanced thermochemical and biochemical biorefineries, capable to provide
liquor) processes (e.g. thermochemical conversion energy materials and chemicals in one
biorefinery using black liquor from pull mill to produce chemicals). site. Future pulp mills provide an
wood. Need of new pulping and fractionation systems opportunity to serve new markets for
for the mill system to have better utilization of materials and value-added chemicals
wood components and their by-products, with the integration to pathway E and
depending on the biorefinery strategy. 19 by using broader variety of forest-
based feedstocks.

E Three platform Untapped potential of lignin (2nd most abundant Develop fundamental and applied
TRL 7-8 (C5, C6 sugars polymers currently used for energy generation). research to understand how different
& lignin) The complex chemistry of lignin is a limitation to chemical structures affect lignin
biorefinery using obtain high purity lignin.344 processability and reactivity.347
lignocellulosic Limited technologies for optimum separation of Develop robust catalysts for lignin
biomass. cellulose, hemicellulose & lignin. 345 Lignin conversion with high catalytic
utilization strategies are challenging because the selectivity. Generate knowledge on use
pre-treatment and conversion processes aim for of suitable solvents and reaction
sugars production and not for high quality lignin, conditions.
which require milder conditions346

F Two-platform Limited time for biomass processing. A fast- Establish green biomass biorefineries
TRL 5-7 (organic fibres & primary processing or preservation methods at a regional level due to the limited
organic juice) (silage, drying) is necessary for the raw material time for processing and low
biorefinery using and primary products transportability.
green biomass. High cost of downstream processing.348 Improve Develop more understanding on the
pre-treatments & and fractionation processes to pre-treatments and conservation
keep biomass functionalities and diversify to methods of biomass to keep the
products with higher added value (e.g. proteins, functionalities for new applications
chemicals and minerals). (e.g. avoid protein denaturalization of
proteins, damage in organic fibres).

342
Cognet, P., Aroua, M. K., eds. From Glycerol to Value-Added Products. Lausanne: Frontiers Media SA. 2020.
343
Klanarong Sriroth and Kuakoon Piyachomkwan. The Outlook of Sugar and Starch Crops in Biorefinery.
Bioprocessing Technologies in Biorefinery for Sustainable Production of Fuels, Chemicals, and Polymers. July 2013.
344
V. Aristizabal -Marulanda , et al.Biofuels, Bioprod. Bioref. 13:789-808, 2019.
345
IEA Bioenergy Task 42. Natural Fibres and fibre-based Materials in Biorefineries. Status report 2018. 2018.
346
Johnson, M. A., and Hart, P. W. Integrating a biorefinery into an operating Kraft mill. BioRes. 11(4), 10677-10710.
2016.
347
H. Wang, et al. From lignin to valuable products-strategies, challenges, and prospects, Bioresource Technology,
271,449-461. 2019.
348
Clean, 37 (1), 27 – 30. Biorefining of Green Biomass – Technical and Energetic Considerations, 2009

156
G Two-platform Complex and costly downstream processing: the Develop of more research and
TRL 5-6 (oil & biogas) dewatering step, the biomass pre-treatment, the development is required to exploit the
biorefinery using isolation and purification process. 349 potential of aquatic biomass towards
aquatic biomass Need of advanced isolation processes if the high added value products.
combined production of oils, carbohydrates and Explore aquatic biomass as a resource
proteins is desired (e.g. ion exchange, to produce biomass independently of
chromatography or crystallization) make the the arable land. 350
process less economically feasible.

H Two-platform Limited feedstock production due to the relative Explore plant breeding as an
TRL 4 (organic fibres & low yield of the plants and competition for alternative to improve plant genotypes
oil) biorefinery cultivation areas with energy crops.26The crops and make them suitable for diverse
using natural provide both natural fibres & oil (e.g. flax, cultivation environments. Improve
fibres. hemp) most varieties are rich in fibres and low feedstock for innovative end products.
in seed production. Currently seeds (oil) are targeted improvements.353 (e.g.
economically more important to produce high- breeding of new hemp varieties to get
value additives for food, feed and cosmetics.351 high yield for fibre and low content of
Seeds production can delay harvest and lead to narcotic compounds, or flax varieties
deterioration in fibre quality.352 for dual purposes with a balance yield
for fibre and seed).354

I One platform Complex chemistry involved in this pathway has Increase research to explore emerging
TRL 7-8 (syngas) slow down the maturity of process development. concepts in gasification for the use
biorefinery using Gasification is very sensitive to process diverse feedstocks (residues and
lignocellulosic parameters, char morphology and presence of waste) to produce chemicals (e.g.
biomass & the inorganics (potassium, sodium, silicon) in flexible gasifier designs such as
municipal solid the biomass. plasma, high temperature syngas
waste. clean-up technologies, smaller
downstream equipment).
Financial support for pilot/demo
facilities to investigate new gasification
in addition to programmes in place
today, given the benefits of this route
in converting mixed feedstocks.

J Two platform Difficulties to upgrade of fast pyrolytic oil due to Develop new biomass pre-treatments
TRL 4-5 (pyrolytic liquid its high oxygen content and presence of to reduce inorganics, more resilient
and biochar) inorganics. To upgrade pyrolysis oil catalytic catalysts or technologies to protect the
biorefinery using processes are needed. 355 However, the catalyst (e.g. development of new
lignocellulosic sensitivity of the catalyst to minerals/inorganics concepts like Integrated Cascading
biomass. present in the pyrolysis oil is the main barrier. Catalytic Pyrolysis (ICPP) from Bio-BTX
For low grade lignocellulosic biomass catalytic (benzene, toluene, xylene)).
pyrolysis is an alternative to avoid biomass pre-
treatment (remove the inorganics) and to
increase the selectivity towards specific
chemicals.

K One platform Limitations on process optimization and Further RD&I of this pathway to solve
TRL 5 (bio-crude) significant techno-economic barriers to scale up the catalyst recovery opens the
biorefinery using the technology. The upgrading of bio-crude opportunity to have a process suitable
lignocellulosic, requires improvement in the recovery of the for a diverse biomass feedstock
aquatic catalyst and the valorisation of organic and including wet and dry low-quality
biomass, inorganic components in residual process biomass towards the production of
organic streams (e.g. waste water processing and chemicals.
residues. recycling).356 Further support to scale up the
Further development needed hydrothermal upgrading and downstream processing
liquefaction (HTL) oil upgrading processes and of HTL oils (e.g. of HyFlexFuel HTL
routes to biochemicals and materials. This project running under EU H2020)
technology is at an earlier stage than for
pyrolysis oils. Additionally, the process needs
special material equipment for high pressure
which increases the cost (CAPEX).

349
Khan M.I., Shin J.H., Kim J.D. Promising future of microalgae: current status, challenges, and optimization of a
sustainable & renewable industry for biofuels, feed, and other products. Microb Cell Fact.;17(1):36. 2018.
350
The Federal Government. Biorefineries roadmap as part of the German Federal Government action plans for the
material and energetic utilisation of renewable raw materials, May 2012.
351
Beus N., Carus M., Carbon footprint and sustainability of different natural fibres for biocomposites and isulation
material. Nova Intitute.April 2019.
352
ADAS Centre for Sustainable Crop Management. UK Flax and Hemp production:The impact of changes in support
measures on the competitiveness and future potential of UK fibre production and industrial use. June 2005.
353
https://www.biobasedpress.eu/2013/10/the-comeback-of-flax-and-hemp/
354
Foster, R., Pooni, H. S., and Mackay, I. J. Quantitative analysis of Linum usitatissimum crosses for dual-purpose
traits. J. Agric. Sci. 131, 285–292. 1998.
355
K. Kirtania , Ch.4 Thermochemical Conversion Processes for Waste Biorefinery. 2018.
356
https://www.hyflexfuel.eu/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/HyFlexFuel_Flyer.pdf

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3.7 Task 4 - Identification of Research, Development and Innovation (RD&I) needs to
overcome technical and non-technical barriers.

In Task 4, we will identify the RD&I needs to overcome the technical and non-technical
barriers of the 8 bio-based chemicals and 2 materials selected in WP 2 and assessed in
Task 2 of this WP 3 (see table).

Table 33. Bio-based chemicals and materials evaluated in this study

Product group Chemical/Material Link biorefinery TRL level combi

pathways BR pathway –
product*
1 Chemical: Additives Propylene glycol C/B 9
2 Chemical: Building blocks 1,4-butanediol A/B/C drop-in 9
3 Chemical: Polymers PLA A/B dedicated 9
4 Chemical: Building blocks Methanol D/I drop-in 9/7-8
5 Chemical: Lubricants Fatty acid and PEG esters C 9
6 Chemical: Solvents Acetic acid A/B/D/I 9/9/9/7-8
7 Chemical: Surfactants Fatty alcohol ethoxylate C 9
8 Material: Fibres Micro-fibrillated cellulose D 9
9 Chemical: Polymers Thermoplastic starch B 9
10 Material: Resins Lignin based phenolic resins D/E 9/7-8

*Indication TRL-level BR-pathway for production bio-based product

A summary of the most important general barriers (technical and non-technical barriers)
are presented in the following Table.

Table 34. Summary of the most important general barriers

Generic barriers applicable to all BR pathways and related chemicals/materials

Non-technical barriers (WP 2 & fact sheets) Technical barriers (WP 3, Task3)

Business related: Lower or the same quality to Feedstock-related: Limited stable sustainable
conventional products, high production cost, consumers and cost-effective biomass mobilisation
not willing to pay more, difficult to enter new markets. potential (amounts, qualities) of both primary
(crops) and secondary (residues) feedstocks
Innovation related: Lack of investment for innovation, for non-food use due to suboptimal cultivation,
difficult to attract finance for scale-up. and inefficient harvesting, storage and
logistical systems. Complex nature of the
Economy related: Low prices of petrochemical biomass feedstocks.
feedstocks.
Conversion process related: Enabling
innovative biorefining technologies (pre-
Feedstock related: High dependency on few feedstocks treatment, conversion, downstream processes)
(in some cases imported feedstock), feedstocks in and catalytic, chemical and biotechnological
competition with food. processes, mostly still at too low TRL level for
market deployment. Scale-up and further
Climate change and environmental related: Lack of process integration needed to come-up with
evidence on sustainability of the product, sustainability market competitive and sustainable integrated
proof is costly, no clear strategies concerning end of life biorefinery technologies.
(recycling, composting).

Citizen and society related: Low public awareness,

terminology confusing.
Platform and product related: Cost
competitiveness and sustainability of bio-based
Policy and regulation related: No financial support for products over fossil-based alternatives and
bio-based products and no clear regulations and lack of proven added-value functionality &
standards. performance.

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The following table presents a summary of the bio-based product specific technical and non-technical barriers concerning the 10 different bio-
based chemicals and materials, as well as needs to overcome these barriers, with a focus on RD&I.

Table 35. Summary of product group specific barriers and suggested needs to overcome these barriers.

Product group specific barriers

no Product Chemical/Material Non- Technical Barriers Technical Barriers Needs to overcome the barriers
group (Pathway)

1 Chemical Propylene glycol • Lack of sustainability of primary • Low sustainable feedstocks import & lacking • Improve and develop new routes to second generation
Additives PG feedstock (palm oil & soy) due to integration primary and secondary feedstock (lignocellulosic woody material or oil residues).
(C/B) deforestation, fertilisers use, imports. biorefining. • Improve sustainability of hydrogen. Review the options for
• Competition of oil crops with food. • Large volumes of residues production. renewable/ green hydrogen production.
• Strong dependency to biodiesel • Relative low sustainability of PG due to the
production (glycerol as feedstock). use of fossil fuels in the conversion process
• Policies towards palm oil phase out and (hydrogenation and hydrocracking).
reduction of biodiesel as transport fuel
could destabilize the PG market due to
the strong dependency of PG to this
feedstock and side product.357

2 Chemical 1,4-butanediol • No cost competitive product due to low • Low sustainability of the primary feedstock • Unlock feedstock potential (lignocellulose and residual
Building 1,4 -BDO prices of natural gas and high (sugar crop). feedstocks).
blocks (A/B/C drop in) production cost of bio-based • Unexploited lignocellulosic and secondary • Improve the efficiency of the process for costs
alternative. potential. competitiveness (use of engineered microorganism in
• Unexploited potential in other • Low cost competitive product due to low fermentation and more efficient downstream processing).
applications (e.g. automotive) due to efficiency, energy intensive processes for • Enhance strategic partnerships to improve cost
the lack of regulation of bio-based bio-based route, and low cost of fossil competitiveness.
materials. feedstock.

3 Chemical Lactic acid & PLA • Limited market application of PLA • Low sustainability of primary feedstock • Improve existing technologies to unlock second generation
Building (A dedicated) (especially food & packaging) due to (sugar or starch crops) for LA production feedstock (agricultural by-products and lignocellulosic
blocks & lower performance compared to other and feedstock competition with food. residues) to avoid food competition.
Polymers polymers. • PLA exhibits lower mechanical and physical • Diversify LA application for production of chemicals (e.g.
• Limited implementation of end of life stability compare to conventional acrylic acid, ethyl lactate).
options for PLA (composting and thermoplastics. • Increase product development and innovation to improve
recycling). • Large volumes of residues production for performance of PLA and product diversification (e.g. resins,
PLA (gypsum- CaSO4). coatings).
• Studied the possible end of life options of PLA quantify the
risk that undegraded compostable plastic residues in
compost has, to help determine the policy developments
required on biodegradable bioplastics.358

357
WP2 Fact Sheet PG
358
Relevance of biodegradable and compostable consumer plastic products and packaging in a circular economy.https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/3fde3279-77af-
11ea-a07e-01aa75ed71a1

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4 Chemical Methanol • Not cost competitive due to the low • Incomplete understanding of the complex • Improve the gasification process for diverse feedstocks
Building (D, I drop-in) price of natural gas based syngas chemistry involved in the gasification (e.g. secondary biomass & even in combination with fossil
blocks compared to biosyngas production process (e.g. presence of the inorganics in feedstocks).
from biomass gasification. the biomass). • Develop and improve current catalysts used in the
• Fair competition with biofuels hindered • gasification and DSP to reduce costs.
due to pro-fuel policies.

5 Chemical Fatty acid and • High dependency on a single type of • Low sustainability of feedstocks (oil crops
• Look for unexploited sources of biomass in Europe (e.g.
Lubricants PEG esters feedstock (vegetable oils & fats). import), and lacking integration primary local crops, local residues) and decrease biomass imports.
(C) • Slightly limited to applications where and secondary biorefining. • Create and fund partnerships between players (additives
properties like biodegradability and • New product development and innovation to producers, new potential customers) to develop new- bio-
non-toxicity is required by law, due to design bio-lubricants with improved based lubricants to improve product properties and broader
the high cost compared to fossil base properties is costly. the applications to other markets.
lubricants. • Low recyclability because of its high
• Poor performance image of bio-based degradation degree.
lubricants compared to fossil.

6 Chemical Acetic acid • Not cost competitive. • Limited scale-up due to the requirement of • R&D on separation and purification processes to increase of
Solvents (A, B, D, I) • Not enough feedstock to replace fossil- high amounts of feedstock. economic viability (e.g. improving industrial separation and
based solvents completely. • Low sustainability of primary feedstock purification from fermentation broths).
(sugar and starch crops) and feedstock • Development and implementation of new routes with
competition with food. secondary biomass or low value streams.

7 Chemical Fatty alcohol • Not cost competitive with fossil-based • Low sustainability of primary feedstocks (oil • Innovation to unlock feedstock dependency. Evaluate the
Surfactants ethoxylate alternative. and sugar crops) and issues with potential of residual (secondary biomass) and
(C) • High dependency on palm oil, coconut competition with food. lignocellulosic feedstock.
oil as feedstock. • Expensive process: fermentation (costly • Develop integrated processes using advance biotechnology
• High fluctuations on feedstock price enzymes, low yields, high by-product enzymes in the fermentation and improve efficiency of the
due to availability and quality of toxicity) make the downstream process is downstream process to reduce production costs.
biomass. complicated.

8 Material Micro-fibrillated • High costs limit large-scale • Strict feedstock physical properties are Evaluate the possible use of other cellulose sources (e.g.
Fibres cellulose applications, but it is also considered required for the production of MFC. High agricultural residues, plant residues).359
MFC that larger volumes production will purity raw material, pure cellulose mainly Develop new more economically pretreatments (pulping and
(D) lower unit costs through economy-of- from wood pulp (softwoods and hardwoods fractionation) systems to reduce cost.
scale. being preferred) is required. Analysis of health and environmental impact of MFC.
• Limited knowledge on long term • High manufacturing cost due to high-energy Create partnerships with new potential customers to increase
health risk (e.g. exposure to dust and consumption during its production and use product portfolio and share product development costs.
fine particles). of expensive grinding equipment results in
Limited initiatives for environmental high capex/capacity ratio.
regulation of materials. • Poor thermal stability for new applications.
• Limited revalorisation of side streams spent
liquor & residual pulp.

359
A.M. Adel et al. Industrial Crops and Products 93,161–174. 2016

160
9 Chemical Thermoplastic Feedstock in competition with food Thermo starch exhibits poor performance Joint innovation to improve properties of thermoplastic
Polymers starch application (starch crops like corn, wheat compare to conventional thermoplastics for starch creating new formulations (between producers &
(B) potato). some applications. possible users).
Packaging sector focusses on recycling Knowledge of environmental performance of Create a market-pull for bio-based plastics in specific added-
over bio-based. TPS containing products is lacking. value markets (similar strategy of advanced biofuels;
Lack of strong regulation to boost the increase consumer awareness).
bio-based applications. Use residues instead of food crops as feedstocks.
Emphasize the circularity advantages (recyclable,
compostable, biodegradable).

10 Material Lignin based Markets dominated by large pulp and Large variability of types and qualities of Assessment of current and future sustainable lignin potential,
Resins phenolic resins paper companies. lignin. quantities and qualities, including and beyond the pulp and
(D, E) No security of feedstock supply and Limited to partial substitution fossil paper sector (incl. advanced biofuels sector) and securing of
quantities not known well enough. alternatives in end-products possible due to supply.
IP can be an issue with business quality requirements. Increase of technical performance lignin-based resins.
development. Lower technical performances in comparison Analysis of environmental impact lignin-based resins.
Lignin-based resins have small but to other resins.
emerging markets. Environmental impacts are not known well
Product approval procedures (e.g. enough.
REACH) are expensive and time
consuming.

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Bio-based chemicals and materials are important bio-based products, potentially driving
the transition to a more circular European Bio(based) Economy. A portfolio of biorefinery
pathways at various Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) exist that will be able to efficiently
and sustainably produce the bio-based products needed. However, as shown in the table
above, several technical and non-technical needs exist, and need to be overcome to
support large-scale market deployment in Europe.

Summary most important barriers identified:

• Low cost competitiveness of the bio-based product versus fossil based products,
especially for drop-in chemicals or materials that do not offer additional functionalities.
In this case the RD&I needs are to decrease production cost either by improving the
conversion processes or by trying to use low cost raw materials (switching to secondary
feedstock).

• Limitation of primary feedstocks availability which also is competition with food crops.
In order to overcome this barrier, scientific and industrial communities are trying to
evaluate the technical feasibility of using secondary biomass (strong focus on
lignocellulosic materials) and benefit of the “lower” cost and “more abundant”
feedstocks. However, the main attention points in order to handle this diversification
are to assess the potential (quantities, collection and mobilization) and to identify the
inefficiencies in the different value chains (e.g. low conversions in the pre-treatment or
conversion processes).

• Limited product development and diversification of product portfolios of bio-based

chemicals and materials. In some cases, product improvement and development are
hindered by high cost and lack of knowledge to penetrate new markets and/or
applications. In this case cross -sectoral collaborative projects and strategic
partnerships are relevant.

• It is important to visualize that in some cases, the whole supply chain must be
developed, from biomass production, modify conversion processes, implement product
development, up to market introduction. In that case new market players and major
investments may be necessary.

Potential policy measures to overcome the barriers (see also WP 6 where these
measures are developed into actions):

• Bio-based products in most cases are more expensive than their fossil-based
alternatives. In case they also have a better quality and /or functionality, customers
might be wiling to pay a premium price. In case of similar quality/functionality – and
even at a better sustainability – policy measures will be necessary to force the large-
scale market introduction of bio-based products.

• Biorefineries producing a portfolio of bio-based products from a variety of biomass

feedstocks need a close and efficient cooperation of stakeholders to develop successful
business concepts (agro-sector, logistics sector, chemicals/materials sector, energy
sector, etc.). Therefore, policy measures applied should be focussed on a multi-sector
approach, rather than meeting the single sector needs.

• A CO2-tax should be introduced for fossil-based alternatives making bio-based

products, and products produced from other alternative renewable sources, more
market competitive.

• Sustainable biomass cultivation, mobilisation and supply should be supported for both
food and non-food (bio-based) applications.

• Because biorefinery investments are often classified as risk investments, due to

uncertainties with sustainable feedstock supply, innovative technologies used, new or

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 highly competitive markets entered etc., external financing conditions are often not
very attractive. New ways of EC supported financial support should be made available
to support market deployment.

• Regional circular developments should be supported combining sustainable biomass

cultivation to small-scale refining to bio-based products with recovery of nutrients to
be fed back onto the fields.

• Clear regulations, standards and product approval procedures for bio-based products
should be (further) developed to support market deployment.

Potential Research, Development and Innovation (RD&I) support to overcome

the barriers:

• Because of the relatively low TRL of enabling innovative biorefining technologies that
will be necessary to produce bio-based products, i.e. chemicals and materials, as part
of various promising biorefinery pathways, in a sustainable and market competitive
way, financial support will be necessary over the full RD&I-trajectory, so both
supporting fundamental research, applied research and piloting, demonstration and
market support (1st of a kind commercial application).

• Robust, feedstock flexible, biorefining technologies and logistical systems (transport,

storage) should be developed to be able to process the full European available biomass
potential, which is very diverse, being able to meet a varying feedstock market demand
(volumes over time and place, right quality).

• Primary biorefinery (pre-treatment) technologies should be developed converting

various and low-quality biomass feedstocks in higher quality and energy dense
biocommodities (pellets, oil) that meet the processing requirements of a variety of
biorefining technologies for widescale use. This potentially can also decouple decentral
primary refining from more central secondary processing in bio-based products.

• Secondary biorefinery processes (fermentation, gasification, incl. DSP) should become

more energy efficient and product selective to increase market competitiveness.

• The overall sustainability (incl. end-of-life strategies) of the bio-based products and
their advantages over competing fossil and other renewable alternatives are still
unclear for some products. This is partially due to the very complicated assessment
methodologies (only easy to follow for those who are experts) being used hindering
market deployment. Development of a more clear and understandable assessment
approach, linked to an efficient communication strategy, will enhance market
acceptance and consumer awareness, supporting market deployment.

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It is expected that within the new EC Horizon Europe Programme (2021-2027)
significant budget will become available by means of both RAIs360, IAs361 and CSAs362 to
tackle (part of) these RD&I barriers. Specifically, in Pillar II “Global Challenges and
Industrial Leadership”, Cluster 6 “Bioeconomy, Food, Natural Resources, Agriculture
and Environment”, financing opportunities will be made available to support these types of
activities. Also, the potential follow-up of the very successful BBI-JU by means of the new
EU Partnership Circular Bio-based Europe (CBE)363, will be part of this Pillar II, making
available significant public-private budget to support the technology development,
demonstration and market introduction needed. More fundamental knowledge building364
will be tackled by Pillar I “Excellence Science”; whereas the link to market introduction will
be laid by respectively Pillar III “Innovative Europe” and the Structural, Social and
Investment Funds.

360
RIA: Research and innovation actions(RIAs) are research and development activities to establish new knowledge or
explore the feasibility of a new or improved technology, product, process, service or solution (including basic and
applied research, technology development and integration, testing and validation on a small-scale prototype in a
laboratory or simulated environment). Applied R&D: work undertaken primarily for the advancement of scientific
knowledge, with a specific practical aim to direct the introduction of useful materials, devices, products, systems
and processes, or the improvement of existing ones. Pilot projects: small-scale implementation used to prove the
viability of a project idea. This could involve the exploration of a novel new approach, the application of a standard
approach. This enables to manage the risk of a new idea and identify deficiencies.
361
IA: Innovation actions (IAs) are innovation activities directly aiming at producing plans and arrangements or
designs for new, altered or improved products, processes or services (including prototyping, testing,
demonstrating, piloting, large-scale product validation and market replication). Demonstration projects: used to
prove technical and environmental feasibility, facilitate the learning curve and knowledge formation, reduce risk
associated with innovations (e.g. materials, operating and maintenance cost) and contribute to public acceptance
and awareness. Flagship projects: large collaborative research and development projects which involve several
consortium partners and have a substantial impact on one or several economic sectors.
362
CSA: Actions consisting primarily of accompanying measures such as standardisation, dissemination, awareness-
raising and communication, networking, coordination or support services, policy dialogues and mutual learning
exercises and studies, including design studies for new infrastructure and may also include complementary
activities of strategic planning, networking and coordination between programmes in different countries.
363
Inception impact assessment, https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/11903-
European-Partnership-for-a-Circular-bio-based-Europe
364
Fundamental research: Basic scientific research with the aim of improving scientific theories for better
understanding and prediction of natural or other phenomena.

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4 WP 4 – EU AND GLOBAL BIOREFINERY DEPLOYMENT “DATABASE”

This section includes a report chapter on global biorefinery deployment “database” led by
BTG. The respective interactive dashboards of the chemical and material driven
biorefineries in the EU (non-EU) are available under the following links365:

https://datam.jrc.ec.europa.eu/datam/mashup/CHEMICAL_BIOREFINERIES_EU/index.html

(https://datam.jrc.ec.europa.eu/datam/mashup/CHEMICAL_BIOREFINERIES_NON_EU/index.html)

4.1 Objectives, scope and approach

4.1.1 OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this work package (WP 4) are to:

• Provide an analysis of European Union (and global) biorefinery construction and

planned development based on the biorefinery classification (WP 1).

• Construct a database – in close coordination with the JRC - in line with the
classification system, populated using literature and stakeholder/network
knowledge and subsequently analysis.

4.1.2 SCOPE

The scope regarding WP 4 is defined in the inception report. In short this means:

• Biorefining can be broadly defined as the sustainable processing of biomass into a

portfolio of marketable bio-based products, which could include co-production of
food and feed, algae, wood and woody biomass-based materials, products and
bioenergy (power, heat/cold, fuels).

• Focus of the current study are chemical and material driven biorefineries (incl. also
uses of biogenic effluent gases, such as CO2 and CO for biochemicals etc.) that
include the production of innovative high value bio-based products.

• These chemical and material-driven biorefineries produce bio-chemicals and/or

biomaterials as main products i.e. on a mass basis their bio-based chemicals and
materials output exceeds the output of bioenergy, including fuels. Biofuel
production plants that produce biochemicals as co-products are not included.

• For the purpose of the assignment traditional bio-based products such as pulp,
paper and wood products as well as biomass used for energy production will not be
focused on.

Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) are indicators of the maturity level of particular
technologies. The highest TRL level is 9. In the biorefineries database only facilities that
are at TRL 8 or TRL 9 will be included. This includes commercial, first-of-a-kind (FOAK) and
demo plants but not pilot plants.

365
Baldoni, Edoardo; Reumerman, Patrick; Parisi, Claudia; Platt, Richard; Gonzalez Hermoso, Hugo; Vikla, Kaisa; Vos,
John; M'barek, Robert; European Commission, Joint Research Centre (2021): Chemical and material biorefineries
in the EU. European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC) [Dataset]
PID: http://data.europa.eu/89h/ee438b10-7723-4435-9f5e-806ab63faf37"

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4.1.3 APPROACH

The work was divided into five steps, namely:

1. Definition of datafield headings

2. Selection of top 10 most relevant other countries outside the EU

3. Review existing biorefinery databases

4. Build database of biorefineries in the EU and in top 10 other countries

5. Analysis of EU (and top 10 other countries) planned biorefineries

In the next paragraphs the progress of WP 4 is further detailed based on these steps.

JRC database on bio-based industries and biorefineries

Over several years (see textbox), the JRC has worked on a database on bio-based
industries and refineries. Based on discussions with the JRC and the principal, the
consortium gained access to the raw data (MS-Excel sheet) used by the JRC to populate
the database on bio-based industries and biorefineries366

Initiated in 2015 (under the BISO project), the JRC database brings together
information on bio-based plants in EU Member States, collected from a broad range
of existing overviews and targeted surveys, and further refined using expert
information.

Over the years both DG-RTD and the Joint Research Centre devoted significant
resources to develop the database to its current advanced state. As of early 2020, it
contains >2500 biomass processing plants in the EU28 Member States. The JRC
database – although likely not exhaustive - is considered the most complete overview
of the sector. Since a few months it can be consulted free of charge by the public. For
this purpose, a user-friendly interface was developed (see screenshot).

It was agreed that the consortium would build on and improve this raw data to build its
database on biorefineries. This approach avoids duplication and enhances the result. The
decision to cooperate closely with the JRC shaped several subsequent choices. It had a

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https://datam.jrc.ec.europa.eu/datam/mashup/BIOBASED_INDUSTRY/index.html

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clear impact on the choice of data platform (MS-Excel) and on the definition of data fields.
When the biorefineries database was finalised, the raw data was made available to the
JRC. A meeting was lined up to inform JRC about the expansions and improvements made.

4.2 Define datafield headings

Datafield headings have been defined in accordance with the preliminary list from the
Inception Report, and the existing JRC datafield headings.

The list contains 39 entries. These entries partly originate from the JRC database and are
partly added due to specific requirements for this Biorefineries database. These datafields
have been used in the subsequent populating and analysis of the biorefineries database.
In general, the new datafields reflect the priorities defined for this project. For example, to
be able to fill the database in conformity with the biorefineries classification developed in
WP 1, several data fields were added, as follows:

• Conversion Process

• Platform

• Product

Further new data fields include information on:

• Geography (EU or non-EU) – since the JRC database only considers EU Member States
this field had to be added

• Size class of production – to make an easy subdivision based on size class

• Capital expenditure of the biorefineries – to get an insight in investment levels

Besides that, there are also some data fields added to facilitate analysis, and to enable the
JRC to quickly select new or changed data field entries. (“BTG analysis”, “New or changed”,
and “Description of changed data”).

4.3 Selection of top 10 most relevant other countries

The assignment required the consortium to also consider biorefineries established outside
the EU. To keep this task manageable, it was proposed and agreed to zoom in on a
maximum of 10 countries deemed the most relevant. As a first step, these countries had
to be identified. For his process, the following methodology was adopted:

• Since 2007, during each triennium IEA Task 42 Biorefining367 has been publishing
Countries Report that cover the status of biorefining initiatives in its participating
countries. Task member countries have changed over the years. In the fourth
triennium (2016-2018), non-EU members included Australia, Canada, Japan, New
Zealand, and United States. It was an obvious choice to include these five countries.

• Other countries were selected based on a combination of biomass availability, GDP,

expert knowledge on national bioeconomy support policies and level of existing bio-
based production capacity. Based on this, Brazil, China, India, and Thailand were
selected. This country selection was communicated to the EU in the Inception
Report.

• Lastly, several countries were selected because of geographical proximity. These

countries are Norway, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.

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http://task42.ieabioenergy.com

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This methodology was approved by the EC. In the next table the selected Non-EU countries
are listed:

Table 36. List of Non-EU countries considered for the biorefineries database

Region Countries

OECD countries USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan

BRIC countries Brazil, China, India

(Other) Asian countries Thailand

Non-EU European countries Norway, Switzerland, United Kingdom

4.4 Review existing biorefinery databases

This task consisted of two subtasks:

• Filtering JRC database

• Identifying additional biorefineries in EU and in the selected non-EU countries

These will be described in order.

Filtering the JRC database

The JRC database on bio-based industries and biorefineries covers 2,362 facilities. The JRC
database includes biorefineries that produce chemicals and materials (our focus) but also
includes many other bio-based plants that produce exclusively or mainly bioenergy.

To select the biorefineries that fit the scope of the current study, a set of selection criteria
was developed and applied, as follows:

• Biorefineries not at TRL 8 or TRL 9 (Technology Readiness Level) were not retained.

• To identify the chemical biorefineries, use was made of the list of the top 120
biochemicals produced in the EU, developed in the RoadToBio project (See Annex I).
For these bio-based chemicals, the corresponding biorefineries were selected from the
JRC database. This approach has the advantage that it is clear that all or nearly all
chemical biorefineries are included in the database.

• To identify the material biorefineries, a list of keywords for bio-based materials were
defined (See Annex II) by drafting selected ‘word clouds’ from the JRC database.
Biorefineries in which these biomaterials were listed as products were selected from
the JRC database.

All in all, about 300 chemical and material biorefineries were in conformity with our criteria
and selected for further analysis.

Identifying additional biorefineries in EU and selected non-EU countries

To update and expand the resulting collection of biorefineries a literature search was
conducted. The initial focus of this literature search was on identifying biorefinery
overviews. It was established that the comprehensive JRC database might be unique in the
world. No similar overview listing biorefineries in non-EU countries was found. Not even
IEA Task 42 that has a clear focus on biorefining had generated such an overview.
Consequently, a database on non-EU biorefineries had to be developed from scratch.
Therefore, the focus of the literature search was shifted to identifying key literature sources
that could help build up such database. From many candidates sources the following
appeared to be the most useful:

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• “Map of biorefineries in Europe” BIC/NOVA 2017 (http://bio-based.eu/graphics/ )

• E4tech database for the sugar platform

• Niaounakis, M. Biopolymers: Processing and Products, 2015

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-26698-7.00001-5

• IEA Task 42 Biorefining country reports (https://www.iea-bioenergy.task42-

biorefineries.com/en/ieabiorefinery/Country-Reports.htm )

• De Jong, Bio-based chemicals: a 2020 status update. IEA Task 42 Webinar

presentation. (https://www.ieabioenergy.com/ieaevent/iea-bioenergy-webinar-bio-
based-chemicals-a-2020-status-update/ )

• Rosales-Calderon and Arantes, “A review on commercial-scale high-value products that

can be produced alongside cellulosic ethanol”, Biotechnology Biofuels (2019) 12:240,
https://doi.org/10.1186/s13068-019-1529-1

• Spekreijse et al., “insights into the European market for bio-based chemicals”, JRC
report, 2019, http://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/handle/JRC112989

To collect up-to-date information on latest developments with regard to existing and in

particular planned biorefineries, (professional) websites and social media were inspected.
The most recent 2.5 years (since January 2018) were considered. Media that were
inspected include:

• Bio-based News, http://news.bio-based.eu/

• Bioplastics News, https://bioplasticsnews.com/top-bioplastics-producers/

• Biofuelsdigest (https://www.biofuelsdigest.com/ )

• Greenchemicalsblog (https://greenchemicalsblog.com/ )

• List of Flagship projects BBI https://www.bbi-europe.eu/projects

4.5 Build database of biorefineries in EU and top 10 countries

Having developed an up-to-date overview of relevant biorefineries in the EU and beyond,

the final step was to prepare and/or updating the description of all biorefineries. To this
end hundreds of websites and webpages were inspected. Those that offered new(er)
information are mentioned directly in the database and are not repeated here.

Based on the data sources listed above, the JRC database was updated and expanded. The
new database currently contains 445 entries, including both existing and planned
biorefineries. It should be noted that this updated database still might not contain all
innovative chemical and material biorefineries in the EU (and in the selected non-EU
countries), because of various reasons such as non-availability of information, new
developments, etc. When populating the database, it became clear that for many
biorefineries it is difficult to find information regarding plant size, employees, and CAPEX.
In many cases it is even difficult to determine production volumes. Expected reason for
this is that it is often not in the interest of the company to give this information. Also, many
bio-based products are part of complex international supply chains that are difficult to
discern.

The above underlines the difficulty of collecting and maintaining reliable biorefinery plant
information that is time sensitive and/or commercially sensitive. This is hardly surprising
and a common problem that anyone building a database for any kind of economic sector
is experiencing.

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4.6 Analysis of EU (and top 10 other countries) planned biorefineries

Given that the database construction is practically complete –only the biorefineries
classification remains to be finalized - it is now possible to analyse the data.

Firstly, the issue of completeness of the data is highlighted, since this impacts the analysis,
and the interpretation of the results. Subsequently, general characteristics are discussed,
followed by specifics such as feedstocks, platforms, processes, and products.

Data completeness

The level of completeness of the data is highlighted for the relevant datafields in Figure
48.

Figure 48. Level of completeness of the Biorefineries database per data field

This figure shows the completeness percentage of a given data field for all biorefineries.
So, if the figure shows 50% data completeness, it means that data from half of the
biorefineries on a given data field is contained in the database. For some datafields the
figure is practically meaningless, such as the data field ‘parent company’. Since many
Biorefineries do not have a parent company the completeness figure does not say a lot.

Data completeness is quite high (95% -100%) on data related to the technical
characteristics of the biorefinery such as feedstock type, process, platform, and product.
Also, quite general data such as country and location are known for a relatively high
percentage of the biorefineries.

Data completeness is less on economic/business parameters, such as capacity, number of

employees, turnover and capital expenditure. This is not surprising, since this may be

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sensitive data, which companies do not want to disclose because of their competitive
position.

One specific point needs to be made regarding the data on the capacity of the biorefineries.
It would have helped if more would be known about this, since the capacity can vary widely,
and it can therefore be an important parameter to characterize the biorefineries. However,
data completeness is about 45%. On top of that, there are two further reasons why this
production capacity data is even less suitable for analysis:

• Often, only the total capacity of a biorefinery is known, even though biorefineries
can also produce non-bio-based (fossil) products.

• Many bio-based products are not 100% bio-based, but also contain fossil
feedstocks. This is not shown in the biorefinery production capacity data.

Given these uncertainties, further analysis will not take the production capacities into
account.

General aspects

In Figure 49, the geographical distribution of the EU biorefineries are shown. This graph
also includes the planned EU biorefineries. This graph shows – as expected - that many
biorefineries are located in France, Germany, Netherlands and Belgium. Besides that, it’s
also clear that Nordic countries like Sweden and Finland also home to many biorefineries.

Further analysis on the territorial dimension of biorefineries is very well possible. When
available, GPS coordinates of the biorefineries have been included, with a 95% completion
ration. This enables to pin-point most biorefineries and select these for territorial analysis.

As discussed earlier in this paragraph, the link between the number of biorefineries and
the total bio-based production capacity is tenuous. However, given the earlier stated
reasons it is not practically possible to obtain a more accurate review of the total bio-based
production capacity using data from the Biorefineries database.

The geographical distribution of all identified biorefineries outside of the EU is shown in

Figure 50. It should be noted that only the number of biorefineries in the selected countries
(see Table 36) are shown. However, during the research no other non-EU countries with
many biorefineries were identified. From the data its quite clear that the USA and China
are major players, with India, Japan, and Brazil behind these first two.

In Figure 51 a graph is given that shows the foundation year of the biorefineries for which
that data is known. On the right of this graph, future years are given (2021-2023); this
represents planned biorefineries with a start-up year located in the future.

Given that the data completion percentage of this data field entry is 72%, results should
be interpreted very cautiously. However, what is clear from the data is that many
installations are quite old; meaning that the majority of installations are older than 10
years. This can be so because one common type of biorefinery is an existing plant that
diversifies into bio-based products, and the foundation year reflects the foundation of the
original – non-biorefinery - plant. It also reflects however that chemical/material
biorefineries are not a very recent phenomenon but are part of a development that has
been going on for quite a while now.

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 Figure 49. Distribution of chemical/material biorefineries in the EU

Figure 50. Number of chemical/materials biorefineries in selected countries outside of the EU

Figure 51. Year of establishment of the biorefineries

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Other general aspects that were determined were the number of planned biorefineries and
biorefineries under construction. In total 13 ‘new’ biorefineries were identified, that are
either planned or under construction. Most of the biorefineries (93%) are commercial
(TRL9); the remaining 6% (in numbers: 26) are demonstration plants. Obviously, there
are also many biorefinery pilot plants. These were however out of scope and have not been
included in the database.

Feedstock

The use of feedstock by the biorefineries is known for many of them (completeness
percentage 97%), which makes this data field suitable for analysis. In Figure 52 the use
of feedstock type is shown for all EU biorefineries in the database. The six feedstock types
to the right are all primary biomass. Three quarters of all the feedstock types used is
primary biomass. The five biomass types shown at the right-hand side of the graph are all
secondary biomass and residues.

Figure 52. use of feedstock types for the EU biorefineries in the database

This graph shows that sugar and oil crops are most widely used in the EU biorefineries,
followed by starch crops and lignocellulosic biomass. This graph also shows that a quite
large part of the EU biorefineries use only a single feedstock. For each feedstock type, the
biorefineries that only uses that feedstock type (the ‘single-feedstock biorefineries’) are
shown separately. A minority of the biorefineries (in total: 35%) of the biorefineries use
more than one feedstock.

For the non-EU biorefineries – see Figure 53– the pattern is similar, except for oil crops.
These are used not as much. Also, residues are used to a lesser extent. About 30% of the
non-EU biorefineries use more than one feedstock.

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Figure 53. use of feedstock types for the non-EU biorefineries in the database

Figure 54. Use of feedstock types for the new biorefineries in the database

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In Figure 54 the feedstock types for new biorefineries are shown. In total 15 biorefineries
that were either under construction or planned were identified. From the graph its clear
they use especially lignocellulosic biomass residues, and oil crops as feedstock. Two of
these plants are non-EU. They use both oil crops.

Process and platform

The top-level subdivision of the processes used in the chemical and material biorefineries
are shown in Figure 54and Figure 55. The dominance of the biochemical and chemical
processes is clear. It is also clear that there are only a few biorefineries that mainly rely
on thermochemical processes.

Below the top-level division, it is also possible to distinguish the different sub-level
processes. These show – regarding the biochemical processes – the dominance of
fermentation, and regarding the chemical processes the dominance of catalytic and
esterification processes.

With respect to the platforms, results are shown in Figure 57 and

Figure 58. In the classification developed in this project, several more platforms were
identified, such as the Biochar, bio-coal, bio-crude, and hydrogen platform. No biorefineries
using these platforms have been identified however, and these are now shown in the graph.

The total number of platforms identified exceeds the number of biorefineries, which reflects
that there are many multi-platform biorefineries. Results are consistent with the
information on feedstock and processes. The C5/C6 sugars platform is most prevalent,
followed by the oil platform. Outside of the EU the sugars platform is even more prevalent
than in the EU biorefineries.

Figure 55. Top-level processes identified in the selected EU biorefineries

175
Figure 56. Top-level processes identified in the selected non-EU biorefineries

Figure 57. Platforms identified in the Biorefineries database (EU only)

Figure 58. Platforms identified in the Biorefineries database (non-EU only)

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Products

Just as for many other technical parameters, the products that are produced by
biorefineries have been identified with a high completion factor (99%), which means
certainly that further analysis is warranted.

The top-level categorisation is shown in Figure 59 and Figure 60 . These figures show that
biorefineries produce both a lot of chemicals and materials, and to a lesser extent food and
animal feed. It is also clear that energy remains an important by-product, even though we
pre-selected the biorefineries that produced mainly chemicals and/or materials.

If we look further towards the chemical products (see Figure 61 and Figure 62), we see a
wide spectrum of products. There are only a few products that are not produced in multiple
biorefineries. This goes both for the EU and for the non-EU biorefineries. Besides that, it
should be noted that the largest category (by number of biorefineries) - building blocks -
will likely contain several chemicals that could just as easily be named as additives and/or
solvents.

Regarding materials (see Figure 63 and Figure 64), no clear pattern emerges. As expected,
many biorefineries produce polymers and resins, but the number of composite and fibre
products is also substantial. Non-EU-biorefineries produce more polymers and resins, and
less composites and fibres compared to EU biorefineries.

With respect to energy products (see Figure 65 and Figure 66), it’s clear that fuels
dominate. It should however be noted that this category is quite broad, since it includes
bioethanol, biodiesel, and biomethane. Furthermore, it is considered likely that many
biorefineries produce heat and/or electricity for their own processes, in which case it might
not be listed as a separate product. Non-EU biorefineries listed in the database report only
fuel as energy product. Also, here heat and/or electricity are likely produced as well, but
not reported.

Figure 59. Top level product categories identified in all EU biorefineries

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 Figure 60. Top level product categories identified in all non-EU biorefineries

Figure 61. Chemicals products produced in the EU biorefineries of the Biorefineries database

Figure 62. Chemicals products produced in the non-EU biorefineries of the Biorefineries database

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 Figure 63. Materials produced in the EU biorefineries identified in the database

Figure 64. Materials produced in the non-EU biorefineries identified in the database

30

25

20

15

10

0
Fuels Heat Power

Figure 65. Energy products produced in the biorefineries (EU) listed in the database. The category ‘Cooling agents’ is not listed
as it has no entries.

179
8

0
Fuels Heat Power

Figure 66. Energy products produced in the biorefineries (non-EU) listed in the database. The category ‘Cooling agents’ is not
listed as it has no entries.

Besides the absolute number of distinct products produced in biorefineries, it is also of

interest what the position in the value chain is for the chemical products produced. In this
respect the distinction between drop-ins, smart drop-ins and dedicated products is useful:

• Drop-in products are produced as direct replacement of fossil chemicals early in the
value chain.

• Smart-drop ins are chemical products that can also directly replace chemical
products, but in this case, it meant that these are introduced in the value chain at
a further stage, closer to the end-product.

• Dedicated products are in this context chemical bio-based products that have
distinct functionalities, that make them superior to fossil products, so as to ensure
a unique market advantage over the fossil alternative.

In the pie charts of Figure 67, the division between drop-ins, smart drop-ins and dedicated
chemicals is shown. More precise, it shows the percentage of biorefineries that produce a
certain type of product. This pie chart shows the largest percentage of products to be
dedicated chemicals (43% EU, 47% non-EU). However, there are also a significant number
of drop-ins (7% EU, 19% non-EU) and smart drop-ins (9% EU, 15% non-EU). Besides
that, there are also a notable amount of biorefineries that produce combinations of these
(called ‘mixed’) in the figure.

What is clear from this pie chart is that biorefineries produce all three types of products,
which implies that all three types of products are produced by a number of biorefineries,
leading to the expectation that all three types of products have found business/market
conditions on which they can operate. This does however not say much about the general
competitiveness of biorefinery products. The factors to improve the competitiveness are
elaborated in WP 6.

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 7% 7%

12%
34%

47%
15%
43%

7%
9%
19%

Dedicated Drop-in commodity Dedicated Drop-in commodity

smart drop-in materials smart drop-in materials
mixed mixed

Figure 67. The percentage of biorefineries that produce a certain type of product (left: EU biorefineries, right: non-EU
biorefineries

4.7 WP 4 Conclusions

Based on the analysis presented, and the work carried out regarding identification of
chemical and material refineries and the building of the database, several conclusions can
be drawn. Besides many observations that can be made related to the use of certain
feedstock, product types, geographical aspects, the following - more general -
conclusions can be drawn:

• There are many chemical and material focused biorefineries operational inside and
outside of the EU, producing a multitude of chemical and material products. However,
the lack of data on the production volumes and capacity does not allow any estimations
of their importance as regards the total production in the EU.

• The currently operational biorefineries do not constitute a recent development, since

many are already older than 10 years. Rather, this point towards an interwoven
landscape of installations that produce both fossil and bio-based products and/or
produce traditional biomass product in combination with innovative/advanced bio-
based products.

• Many biorefineries use primary biomass, of which sugar and starch form a very large
part. The dominance of the C5/C6 sugar platform and the oil platform is clearly
distinguishable in the database analysis, both for the EU and the non-EU biorefineries

• The biorefineries that use secondary biomass use mostly residues from forestry’,
followed by other residues and wastes, and agricultural residues. This last category is
more prevalent in the non-EU biorefineries, compared to the EU biorefineries.

• Biorefineries that produce materials in the EU, produce mainly polymers and fibres, and
to a lesser extent composites and resins. For non-EU biorefineries polymers and resins
are produced to a greater extent; composites and fibres less so.

• From the biorefineries that produce chemical products, most produce dedicated bio-
based chemicals. However, there are also a lot of biorefineries that produce drop-in,
smart drop-in or a combination. This means that for all three product options (drop-in,
smart drop-in and dedicated) there are multiple biorefineries that have found
business/market conditions on which they can operate.

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5 WP 5– Market prospects for biorefineries to 2030

WP 5 provides the outlook for biorefinery deployment as well as an outlook for bio-based
chemicals and materials demand in the EU to 2030 under two growth scenarios. This WP
was co-developed by FNR and E4tech with the demand section led by FNR and the supply
section led by E4tech

5.1 Objectives
The objectives of this work package are:

• to develop a bio-based chemicals and materials demand outlook in the EU to 2030

under two growth scenarios.

• to develop an outlook for biorefinery deployment to 2030 under two growth scenarios

5.2 Approach
This work builds on WP 2 considering the drivers and barriers for biorefineries, WP 3
available and emerging biorefinery pathways and RD&I needs, and on WP 4’s deployment
status of biorefineries.

It includes assessing the potential markets and regions for the deployment of biorefineries
in the EU. The two deployment scenarios form the basis of the ‘biorefinery outlook for the
EU’ developed in WP 6.

The following steps have been carried out:

1. Setting of assumptions for two growth scenarios (high and low)

2. Assessment of the potential demand (under the two scenarios) for the main bio-
based products derived from biorefineries, split by product classification categories, to
establish the potential markets available in the EU.

3. Development of complementary case studies aligned to those covered in WP 2 and 3

4. Forecast the potential supply of bio-based products from biorefineries by assessing

biorefinery ramp-up rates368 (under the two growth scenarios) within the EU to 2030.

5. Focus on the ramp-up rates of the more novel pathways (as identified in WP 3)

6. Identification of potential locations of biorefinery deployment in the EU based on

resource potential and existing industrial activity.

7. High-level outlook to 2030 for alternative biochemical and biomaterial ramp-up

routes

8. Comparison of supply in the EU to supply in top 10 non-EU (as considered in WP

4).

9. Comparison of EU demand vs EU supply

5.3 Growth scenarios

The two growth scenarios shown below are a combination of demand and supply side
factors. The low scenario represents low increases in demand for bio-based chemicals and
materials in the EU and mixed success in future deployment of biorefineries. It can be
considered that there is limited additional actions taken by stakeholders as today. The high

368
Rate of the capacity increase for biorefineries

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case represents higher support and deployment for biorefineries and increased market
share as a result of stronger drivers (i.e. significant growth in the demand for bio-based
chemicals and materials). The high scenario considers the policy lines of the European
Green Deal and other policy that is supportive of bio-based products (see WP 2 and 6 for
more details).

Figure 68. Demand and supply scenarios

Macroeconomic and policy factors under each growth scenario were determined jointly
between E4tech and FNR. These factors were then validated during a stakeholder advisory
group meeting and the October 2020 stakeholder workshop part 2. The major focus of the
stakeholder feedback was around the impact of COVID 19 pandemic on planned projects
and the current demand for bioproducts.

These high-level factors are shown below and developed into assumptions in the
subsequent sub-sections. The GDP growth factors are relevant to both the recovery from
the COVID 19 pandemic over the coming years and overall economic activity to 2030.

The crude oil price factors are important as for many of the bioproducts being developed
are substitutes for products produced from crude oil (i.e. fossil-based products). Fossil-
based products prices are in part aligned to the crude oil price (e.g. polyethylene price has
historically being lower when the oil price is low). Therefore, the competitiveness of
biorefineries is expected to be higher when the oil price is higher – especially when they
sell products that are in direct competition with existing fossil-based products. However,
according to the Forest Technology Platform the oil price does not have a direct influence
to the competitiveness of all biorefineries of the forest-based industries.

Policy support for bioproducts is also a key driver of demand and biorefinery deployment.
In the high scenario there is new policy support expected to be put in place in the EU (as
well as the sub-sections below this is also discussed in WP2 and WP6), whilst in the low
scenario no additional policy is put in place compared to today.

As well as economic growth demand for products is aligned to population growth. This is
assumed to remain the same in the high and low scenarios until 2030 and based on the
EU outlook369.

369
The EU’s population projected up to 2100. European Commission, eurostat, 2019-07-10,
https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/products-eurostat-news/-/DDN-20190710-1

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 Table 37. Macroeconomic and policy high-level factors to 2030

Scenario GDP growth Crude oil price Policy

Stronger recovery Demand recovers and grows - road Market pull policy put in place
scenario

from the COVID fuels continue to see increases in for bio-based chemicals and
High

19 pandemic and demand (low electrification etc..), materials. Widespread financial

average growth continued demand growth for support for biorefinery
than forecast petrochemicals feedstocks development

Weaker recovery Remains low based on weak demand for No additional policy put in place
scenario

from COVID 19 road fuels (high electrification etc..), compared to today

Low

pandemic and lower demand growth for

average growth petrochemicals feedstocks
than forecast

5.4 Potential demand

5.4.1 POTENTIAL DEMAND INTRODUCTION

This section on the potential demand for bio-based chemicals and materials that could be
but not necessarily have to be produced from biorefineries provides a demand side
assessment of 10 selected product groups. Within these product groups, specific products
are presented as case studies.

Each of the ten product groups described in this report has been subject to development
of a high and low scenario.

Resulting from the scenarios, a demand side outlook is presented before going into the
specific product groups and their case studies. The outlook presents the EU consumption
of bio-based products in 2019 in total and per product group. This is completed with the
scenario-based total numbers and numbers for each product group for 2030 for the low
and the high scenario.

All baseline numbers are from the JRC Study “Insights into the European market
for bio-based chemicals. Analysis based on 10 key product categories.” published
in 2019370, which is an analysis also based on 10 key product categories. These include
total production per product group, bio-based production and bio-based consumption. As
the report was published in 2019, all numbers are from 2018 or earlier. Referring to this
report in the text, it will be called the “JRC study” from here on.

The product group specific section consists of:

1. A description of the composition of the product group as some products could be in one
or more categories. This will make sure that no double counting will happen.

2. Presentation of current data for the product group consisting of total production, bio-
based production, bio-based production share of the total production, and bio-based
consumption.

3. Listing of scenario factors for the high and the low scenario.

4. An estimation of the demand CAGR for each scenario including total numbers for EU
bio-based consumption for each scenario.

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Spekreijse, Jurjen; Lammens, Tijs; Parisi, Claudia; Ronzon, Tevecia; Vis, Martijn, Insights into the European market
for bio-based chemicals, Analysis based on 10 key product categories, JRC Science Policy Report, 2019,
https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/publication/insights-european-market-bio-based-chemicals, last viewed: 2020-12-03.

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5. Case studies for specific products being part of the product group.

The selection of the 10 product groups for this part of the study is different from
the 10 key product categories of the JRC study and it also does not reflect all product
groups defined in WP 1 of this study for the biorefinery classification. It is a selection, which
was made for identifying the general and specific drivers and barriers for biorefineries in
WP 2. Since in this section on the potential demand for bio-based chemicals and materials
the scenarios are amongst others based on drivers and barriers identified for product
groups in WP 2, this section on demand will also develop scenarios for these 10 product
groups only. The selection of the 10 product groups used in WP 2, WP 3 and now also WP
5 is based on the following criteria:

1. Both chemicals and materials shall be represented

2. No domination of a single or just a few biorefinery pathways

3. Market potential i.e. substantial market volume and/or market growth (CAGR)

4. Stakeholder views and preferences

It has to be acknowledged that these 10 product groups do not represent the total market
for bio-based chemicals and materials. This is specifically true for the fibre product group.
First of all composite materials containing natural bio-based fibres are not produced in
biorefineries typically. The product group “fibres” is limited to man-made bio-based fibres.

The selection of the bio-based chemicals’ case studies was based on the list of the
RoadToBio project371 including 122 products, which we used as a long list. This list was
reduced to a shortlist by applying three criteria to select specific products that have a
relevance for the demand side outlook. The three criteria used are:

1. Exclusion of products that are not expected to be commercialised by 2030 (based on

WP 3 and the supply ramp up in this WP)

2. Exclusion of products with identified functional or sustainability deficits (i.e. high human
toxicity or allergic potential)

3. Prioritisation of specific functional or sustainability related features compared to fossil

alternatives (i.e. feedstock base, toxicity, greenhouse gas emissions and end of life
options, i.e. biodegradability)

4. Prioritisation of products with a high market share potential in the bio-based segment

The work resulted in a shortlist of 10 representative products (chemicals and

materials) with promising market attractiveness, which can be directly traced back to
specific biorefinery types and pathways.

The case studies are structured using the following categories:

1. Functionality and application area

2. Sustainability – Describing the products environmental sustainability performance

3. Market value – Describing policy and consumer related market pull measures and
regional specifics

371
Lammens, Tijs; Spekreijse, Jurjen; Puente Ángel; Chinthapalli, Raij; Crnomarkovic, Mladen, Bio-based opportunities
for the chemical feedstocks and intermediates in the chemical industry, Deliverable 1.1 to the RoadtoBio project,
2017, https://www.roadtobio.eu/index.php?page=publications, last viewed: 2020-12-03.

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4. Market size and market price - Data on the market volume and market price have been
collected through the Prodcom database. Furthermore, information related to the price
and market volume has been collected from publicly available market reports and
studies, as well as through expert judgment from stakeholder interviews. Results were
discussed and adapted according to the feedback of stakeholders, which have been
consulted in semi-structured interviews and through the stakeholder workshops and
stakeholder advisory group meetings.

The aim of presenting specific case studies is to help stakeholders to understand which
exemplary specific products could be produced by the different biorefineries described in
WP 3. Putting this together with the identified barriers and drivers it presents a complete
picture, hence this can help support stakeholders to decide which biorefineries provide the
highest opportunities for their constituencies. Nonetheless, as it is not possible to present
all biorefinery pathways in detail or define specific barriers and drivers for all of them, it is
also not feasible to analyse the full portfolio of products produced by them. The description
of demand-side scenarios for selected product groups and specific case studies of products
within the product group form a picture of how demand can develop under different
scenarios.

Whilst the above approach explores the market attractiveness for 10 bio-based chemicals
and materials that can be produced from chemical and material biorefineries there are
many others and looking at all of these to the level described above is out of scope of this
study. However, an understanding of the overall market potential for bio-based chemicals
and materials will be developed. This will be based upon market outlook for the product
sub-groups until 2030 and the potential demand for these groups will be provided.

Table 38. Overview product groups, case studies and related biorefinery pathways

Product group Products Pathway

Building blocks Propylene glycol B,C,E
1-4 BDO A,B,C drop-in
Lactic acid A,B, dedicated
Biomethanol D,I drop-in

Lubricants Fatty acid PEG esters C

Solvents Acetic acid A,B,D,I

Surfactants Fatty alcohol ethoxylate C

Fibres Microfibrillated cellulose D

Polymers Thermoplastic starch B

Resins Lignin based phenolic resins D,E

Additives

Note: In WP 3 Propylene glycol was listed under the product group additives. The chemical can be
listed in different categories due to its various applications.

Scenario development

Two scenarios were developed for each product group named in table 2 above. The two
2030 scenarios will cover a high demand scenario 2030 and a low demand scenario
2030.

As mentioned already above, we used the available study on Bio-Based Chemicals by JRC372
and the estimated Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the different product

372
Spekreijse, Jurjen; Lammens, Tijs; Parisi, Claudia; Ronzon, Tevecia; Vis, Martijn, Insights into the European market
for bio-based chemicals, Analysis based on 10 key product categories, JRC Science Policy Report, 2019,
https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/publication/insights-european-market-bio-based-chemicals, last viewed: 2020-12-03 .

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markets as a basis. We checked the estimated CAGR for the different product groups
against current market trends and considered the results of WP 2 on barriers and drivers
to test if assumptions are still valid and how the market could react if certain barriers would
be removed.

The macro-economic factors presented in table 1 on page 3 have been taken into account.
These are mostly not product group specific but have an effect on the demand across all
product groups. Macro-economic effects include the impact of the Covid-19 situation,
development of the crude oil price and development of GDP, purchasing power and
disposable income of consumers. These factors are not directly and immediately
controllable by policy makers. However, the policy factor is addressed as well with relating
scenario assumptions. These are described in more detail below.

Methodology for developing the product group outlook growth scenarios

The demand outlook for the product groups is based on the numbers for EU bio-based
consumption per product group derived from the JRC 2019 report373. This forms the
baseline for the scenario building. It is important to note that we are providing the two
scenarios based on the assumptions described and using the JRC 2019 report baseline to
show how market demand could evolve. Nonetheless, this should not be interpreted as a
demand market forecast, which would require a different methodology and is out of scope
for this tender study.

High Scenario

For the High Scenario it is assumed that the following general key factors come into place
until 2030:

1. A sustained high crude oil price between 2020 and 2030

2. Policy incentives are introduced that:

o price carbon (e.g. via a tax on carbon, reform of EU ETS or Carbon Border
Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)) or

o introduce new other environmental or health related regulations (e.g.

regulation on toxicity, migration of substances or volatile organic compounds
(VOCs)), bans of traditional products

3. Relative inelastic price reducing effect on demand for bio-based chemicals and
materials e.g. through green price premiums

4. An above average economic development including a fast recovery from the Covid-19
crisis and increasing GDP, purchasing power and disposable income

The policy related high scenario factors and assumptions are partly takes up actions
developed in WP 6 to address identified barriers for biorefinery deployment.

Further specific assumptions have been included into the high scenario on a case basis
where relevant for a product group. These could be a high replacement potentials for direct
substitution of traditional products or drivers and barriers related to product performance
beyond environmental considerations.

It is assumed that the high scenario will overcompensate rising feedstock prices which are
due to increased biomass demand. It is also assumed that a high price for crude oil alone

373
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for bio-based chemicals, Analysis based on 10 key product categories, JRC Science Policy Report, 2019,
https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/publication/insights-european-market-bio-based-chemicals, last viewed: 2020-12-03.

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would only lead to a very moderate increase of demand for bio-based chemicals and
materials. Only the policy incentives and some product group specific actions will help to
increase demand sharply as soon as they are implemented.

High Scenario assumptions

High Scenario assumptions independent from policy making:

High replacement potential: Some bio-based products have a high potential for
replacing traditional fossil-based products. This is the case when a bio-based product
covers only a small share of the total consumption of a traditional product until now and it
is in particular the case for drop-in and dedicated solutions with identical properties of
traditional products.

High crude oil price: A high oil price would lead to increased cost competitiveness of bio-
based chemicals and materials that are directly competing with traditional products based
on crude oil. It has to be considered however, that advantages of a higher oil price can be
limited, since increasing demand for alternatives will also increase the price of biomass
feedstock.

Purchasing power and/or disposable income increase: The general Purchasing

Power describes the disposable income of households and is the most commonly used
indicator for a region’s potential. The Purchasing Power however is not necessarily the most
appropriate planning indicator for all providers of goods and services, as for a lot of
products the consumers’ spending behaviour does not exclusively relate to the disposable
income. Still, increasing purchasing power can lead to higher consumption in general
having an effect on bio-based products. Coupled with the following scenario assumptions
of increasing public awareness and acceptance of bio-based products as a more
environmentally friendly alternative and a resulting willingness to pay premium for that,
this would give an extra boost in demand.

Consumers/buyers willing to pay price premium: This category is already included in

the assumptions about increasing purchasing power and awareness raising. However, its
effect is stronger for intermediate products where material cost percentages are highest.
Towards the end of the supply chain the price premium percentage decreases typically.374

High Scenario assumptions dependant on policy making

GHG relevant measures/regulation: Demand for some bio-based products can increase
once GHG related measures are implemented which e.g. give a price to lifecycle GHG
emissions for all products. This would help to level out price differences to traditional
products in case a bio-based product can prove it has significantly less GHG-emissions over
its live cycle. Measures could consist of e.g. GHG-tax, GHG sector targets, reforming the
EU ETS scheme, Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanisms (CBAM).

Relevant regulation relating to environmental standards, health standards, bans:

Demand for bio-based chemicals and materials can increase when environmental and
health standards are implemented. Environmental regulations can relate to issues
regarding concerns about plastic waste and microplastic littering. Measures can be bans
for plastic bags. Health related measures could be regulations regarding migration of
substances in food packaging or volatile organic compounds that are toxic for human
health.

Public awareness and marketing: Increased public awareness about bio-based

products as a more environment friendly alternative can lead to higher demand and
consumers may be willing to pay premium. The effect could be stronger if this goes along

374
Michael Carus, Asta Eder, Janpeter Beckmann, Green Premium Prices Along the Value Chain of Bio-based Product,
2014, https://news.bio-based.eu/greenpremium_prices_along_the_value_chain/, last viewed: 2020-12-11.

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with increasing purchasing power. It is also assumed that the feedstock base for bio-based
chemicals and materials is sustainable, which is a challenge for some product groups.

Low Scenario

For the Low Scenario the following factors are assumed:

1. The crude oil price remains low until 2030

2. Policy incentives are not introduced

3. Relatively elastic prices for bio-based chemicals and materials leading to a sharp drop
in demand when prices increase; Leading to unwillingness to pay green price premium

4. A below average economic development with slower recovery from the Covid-19
pandemic effects and stalling GDP, purchasing power and disposable incomes

The Low Scenario can be considered as a business as usual development.

Further explanations on the scenario factors and assumptions of their dependencies are
given below. Some of the assumptions are independent from policy making such as for
example the development of the crude oil price. Others are depending on active policy
making such as the introduction of new or adjusted incentives that provide an extra push
to bio-based chemicals and materials beyond existing incentives.

Low Scenario assumptions

Low scenario assumptions independent from policy making

Oil price remaining low: Assuming the oil price will remain low, price competitiveness
of bio-based products that could substitute traditional fossil-based products will not
increase from this side.

No increase in purchasing power: No substantial increase or even a decrease in

purchasing power will lead to less consumption overall and to less willingness to pay price
premiums for bio-based products.

Consumers not willing to pay premium: Weak developments in purchasing power will
lead to less willingness to pay price premiums. However, also missing awareness raising
and/or lack of acceptance of bio-based products can decrease the willingness to pay price
premiums. This could be the case for example resulting from the sustainability of bio-based
alternatives e.g. if the feedstock base is not sustainable and consumers will decide to not
buy the product.

Low scenario assumptions dependant on policy making

Missing/late measures/regulations: The strongest impact in the high scenario is

coming from measures and regulations related to GHG pricing and environmental
standards, health standards and bans of products competing with bio-based substitutes. If
these measures are not implemented in time or not at all, their effect will not come into
place leading to less increase in demand, meaning demand will remain in a business as
usual range.

Strong increase in recycling rates: Increasing recycling rates for non-biogenic materials
e.g. plastic waste is a top goal of European and EU policy currently (Circular Economy
Action Plan). Products made from recycled and CO2 based materials are already
increasingly entering the market and consumer awareness is high. Also, increasing
recycling rates are not only competing on product level with bio-based products. It will
additionally lead to less demand for virgin materials, be they bio-based or not.

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5.4.2 EU DEMAND OUTLOOK

High Scenario:

Applying the high scenario assumptions described above to the product groups and adding
some product group specific considerations in the scenarios will turn out in in a considerable
growth overall. In the high scenario, EU consumption of bio-based products increases from
5.5 Mtpa375 in 2019 to almost 17 Mtpa in 2030. This is an increase of 209 % and
corresponds to an average annual growth rate of 9.9% for all bio-based products
considered in the demand outlook.

Strongest growth will occur for building blocks, solvents and resins. This is because we
assume that policy incentives will contribute to place drop-in and dedicated solutions with
identical properties of traditional fossil-based products in a competitive position. Their
advantage is easy downstream integration into e.g. plastic applications.

The market for bio-based lubricants is an example of a product group which has a high
maturity and many products which can replace traditional ones regarding functionality and
even economics. However, many products of this product group suffer from being
dependant on manufacturer specifications. Manufacturers of equipment and engines will
consider adapting specifications once the bio-based product in question has a market share
of 10 %. This creates a chicken or the egg dilemma. In the high scenario this has been
solved, creating high growth in demand for bio-based lubricants e.g. in applications such
as hydraulics.

Even under the high scenario, surfactants will not experience much growth, as their
position in the market is quite strong already. They have a market share of 50% and EU
production is able to cover 83% of EU consumption.

Low Scenario:

When applying the low scenario assumptions to the product groups, EU-consumption
growth will follow more a business as usual development. Total EU-consumption of bio-
based chemicals and materials will increase from 5.5 Mtpa in 2019 to 7.8 Mtpa in 2030.
This equals an increase of 43% with an annual average growth of 3%.

Highest growth under the low scenario assumptions can be expected for Biopolymers with
an annual growth rate in demand of 7.2%. This higher growth rate compared to other
product groups is based on the assumption that the current momentum of big brand
owners introducing bio-based plastics and possibly CO2-based materials into their products
(e.g. packaging, furniture, toys) will meet an increasing awareness about sustainability of
plastics. This will push through to create higher demand for bio-based polymers and CO2-
based materials.

375
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for bio-based chemicals, Analysis based on 10 key product categories, JRC Science Policy Report, 2019,
https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/publication/insights-european-market-bio-based-chemicals, last view: 2020-12-03.

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 Table 39. Growth in EU-Consumption per product group until 2030 – Low and High Scenario

Product Group EU bio-based EU bio-based CAGR high EU bio-based CAGR low

consumption consumption (2019- consumption (2019-
2018 (kta) (kta) 2030 high 2030) (kta) 2030 low 2030)
scenario scenario

Additives 117 437 11,6% 189 4,1%

Building blocks 197 1,687 19,6% 319 4,1%

Lubricants 220 821 11,6% 289 2,3%

Solvents 107 917 19,6% 141 2,3%

Surfactants 1,800 2,915 4,1% 2,365 2,3%

Fibres 630 2,351 11,6% 1,020 4,1%

Polymers 247 1,308 14,9% 569 7,2%

Resins 320 2,216 21,4% 518 4,9%

Other 1,851 4,317 8,8% 2,435 2,8%

Total 5,489 16,969 9,9% 7,845 3,0%

Table 40. WP 1 Product Groups, JRC Study Product Groups and how they have been used in the demand outlook

WP1 Classification Product Groups JRC Study WP 5 Demand Outlook Product

Groups based on JRC study

Additives (plasticisers, stabilisers, fillers, Plasticiser Additives is identical with JRC category
inhibitors, flame retardants) (and Additives consisting of plasticisers only. It
stabilisers for does not include remaining sub-categories
rubber and listed under WP1
plastics)

Agrochemicals (plant hormones, naturally - Not included in the demand outlook

occurring steroid plant, bio-fungicides from plant
extracts)

Building Blocks (starting materials used to Platform Building blocks is identical with platform
mainly to manufacture other chemical chemicals chemicals category from JRC. However
compounds e.g. ethylene, ethylene glycol, “building blocks” and “platform chemicals”
propylene, propylene glycol, lactic acid) categories are seen to be including the
same type of products.

Catalysts & Enzymes - Not included in the demand outlook

(catalyst produced from cellulosic agricultural
waste and activated carbon, as well as enzymes
produced from plants: amylase, papain,
bromelin, ficin, malt diastase)

Colorants (including dyes, pigments and inks) - Other includes

Cosmeceuticals (vitamins, antioxidants, - Other includes cosmetics from the JRC

botanical extracts, flavonoids, hyaluronic acid study
and other bioactive substance added to products
that are intended to be applied to the human
body with the purpose of cleaning, perfuming,
protecting and keeping it in good condition.)

Flavours & Fragrances (e.g. vanillin, geraniol, - Not included in the demand outlook
cinnamic acid, geranyl acetate, linalool)

Lubricants (e.g. triglyceride esters derived from Lubricants Lubricants category is identical with JRC
vegetable oils obtained from plants) Group and WP 1 Classification

Nutraceuticals (amino acids, vitamins, proteins, - Not included in the demand outlook
antioxidants, derived from food sources and used
as additives for food and feed (e.g.
hydroxytyrosol, lecithin))

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Paints & Coatings (paint and coating containing Other Other includes paints and coatings from
a vegetable fraction coming from bio-based the JRC study.
materials such as vegetable oils, natural
pigments or bio based resins)

Pharmaceuticals (Active Pharmaceutical - Not included in the demand outlook

Ingredients (API’s) like insuline, N-acetyl
glucosamine, L-lysine, artemisinic acid, caffeic
acid, gallic acid, oleuropein, revastrol.)

Solvents (are chemicals that are used to Solvents Solvents category is identical with JRC
dissolve other chemical substances e.g. Group and WP 1 Classification
methanol, ethanol, toluene, acetone, turpentine,
ethyl acetate.)

Surfactants (mostly produced from vegetable Surfactants Surfactants category is identical with
oils, some examples: glycolipids, sopherolipids, JRC Group and WP 1 Classification
esterquats and some starch derivates like
carboxy methyl starch and sugar derivates like
alkyl polyglucoside)

Composites (natural composites: wood, mud - Not included in the demand outlook
bricks (mud+straw), bones and bio-based
derived composites: contain synthetic fibres or
synthetic polymers e.g. PLA/flax composites,
paper, concrete)

Fibres (natural fibres: wool, jute, hemp, sisal, Man-made Man-made fibres is identical with JRC
abaca, silk and bio-based derived fibres: fibres category and does not include natural
polycaprolactam (Nylon 6), Poly(hexamethylene fibres which are part of this group in the
adipamide) (Nylon 66), polyamid-11 (Nylon 11)) WP 1 classification

Organic Fertilizers (humic acid, guano, sewage - Not included in the demand outlook
sludge, compost, digest)

Polymers (natural polymers: starch, natural Polymers Polymers is identical with the JRC
rubber, cellulose, chitin, pectin and bio-based for plastics category ‘Polymers for plastics’. It does
derived polymers: polyethylene (PE), not include natural polymers
polyethylene terephthalate (PET), Polyethylene
2,5-furandicarboxylate (PEF),
Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), polylactic acid
(PLA))

Resins (natural resins: rosin, shellac, copal, Adhesives Resins is identical with the Adhesive
respin and bio-based derived resins: category from JRC.
polyurethane resins, epoxy resins, alkyd resins)

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 Figure 69. Demand for bio-based products 2019, and 2030 low- and high scenario

As already mentioned above, it has to be acknowledged that the 10 product groups to

which the growth scenarios are applied do not represent the total market for bio-based
chemicals and materials. This is specifically true for the fibre product group. First of all
composite materials containing natural bio-based fibres are not produced in biorefineries
typically. The product group “fibres” is limited to man-made bio-based fibres.

Also, the JRC report does not look at the whole product group additives but focuses on bio-
derived plasticisers and stabilisers. Plasticizers account for a major share of the plastic
additives market (51.7% in 2014) 376 as they are extensively used to process polymers and
are less expensive than other additives.

For the scenarios developed in the frame of this study, we consider that plasticisers are
the main drivers of the product category additives and will focus on their development for
practical reasons.

The production of paper and board is not included into the product groups, as these
traditional biorefineries are not within the scope of the study.

The specific description of the composition of the product group analysed can be found
below in each section relating to the product group.

Building Blocks/Platform chemicals

Composition of product group:

Also called "platform chemicals", chemical building blocks are starting materials used
mainly to manufacture other chemical compounds (e.g. ethylene, propylene, lactic acid,
BTX (benzene, toluene, xylene)).

376
Grand View Research. Plastic Additives Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Function (Stabilizers,
Processing Aids), By Product (Plasticizers, Flame Retardants), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2015 – 2022.
March 2016, https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/plastic-additives-market, last viewed: 2020-
12-15 .

193
The JRC 2019 report analysed them using the term “platform chemicals” but excluded
platform chemicals which are typically used in other product categories (e.g. lauryl
alcohol). These products were accounted for in the other product groups. Methanol for
instance was excluded. Overall, as building blocks form a large group, coverage is difficult.
Therefore, in this report, the JRC selection of nine representative products has been
followed with one exception. For the scenarios we include biomethanol as this could
become an important platform chemical if its use in the chemical industry becomes more
attractive assuming it becomes more competitive to use for chemicals against its uses for
fuels based on new policy support and market drivers.

Four of the nine products selected by the authors of the JRC 2019 report are derived from
ethanol (ethylene, ethylene glycol, acetic acid and acetic anhydride). This is expected as
ethanol has significant potential to be used as a building block for chemicals, as well as
fuels. However, to ensure full representation, five products that are not derived from
ethanol were included as well (Propylene glycol (1,2-propanediol), 1,3-Propanediol,
Sebacic acid, Lactic Acid and Epichlorohydrin).377

Finally, about 90% of the global bio-based production capacity for platform chemicals is
accounted for by seven chemicals: lactic acid, epichlorohydrin, ethylene glycol, ethylene,
sebacic acid, 1,3-propanediol and propylene glycol.378 These products have been taken into
account be the JRC study, which thus has a good coverage.

Bio-based building blocks

Basic market data for bio-based building blocks

Total EU production: 60,791 kta EU bio-based production: 181 kta

EU bio-based share of production: 0.3% EU bio-based consumption: 197 kta

Scenarios

High Low

High replacement potential: Building blocks are a bulk High replacement potential cannot be exploited
market with only a small share of bio-based production due to
(0.3% with 181 kta output). Drop-in bio-based solutions Missing measures related to GHG emission, no
thus have potentially a large market. level playing field with fuels/energy – leading to
Wider acceptance and practice of mass-balance inferior cost competitiveness
approaches in B2B business relations.379 380 381 Oil price remaining low
GHG related measures will be implemented in the near Missing recycling/composting options in
future (e.g. sector targets, ETS adjustment, carbon tax, downstream markets for dedicated bio-based
CBAM) solutions
Biomethanol demand will increase sharply from 0 to Biomethanol will not be used as a building block
about 500 kta

EU CAGR: 20% EU CAGR: 4%

EU Consumption in 2030: 1,182 kta EU Consumption in 2030: 295 kta

377
Spekreijse, Jurjen; Lammens, Tijs; Parisi, Claudia; Ronzon, Tevecia; Vis, Martijn, Insights into the European market
for bio-based chemicals, Analysis based on 10 key product categories, JRC Science Policy Report, 2019,
https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/publication/insights-european-market-bio-based-chemicals, last view: 2020-12-03.
378
Aeschelmann et al. (2017).
379
The mass-balance approach from BASF: https://www.basf.com/gb/en/who-we-are/sustainability/we-drive-
sustainable-solutions/circular-economy/mass-balance-approach.html, last viewed: 2020-12-14.
380
Neste Cooperation, https://www.neste.com/releases-and-news/plastics/next-milestone-strategic-cooperation-
neste-borealis-and-covestro-use-alternative-raw-materials, last viewed: 2020-12-14.
381
NNFCC, https://www.nnfcc.co.uk/files/mydocs/Mass%20Balance.pdf, last viewed: 2020-12-14.

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Case study: Propylene glycol

PG is largely produced as site product from biodiesel production. Currently especially

first-generation biofuels are less favoured through regulation and policies while
alternative renewable fuels such as green hydrogen or electric cars are supported.
Feedstocks such as palm oil or soy are phased will be phased out under RED II, which
will further decrease biodiesel production. The use of PG as sustainable bio-based coolant
might drive the demand for PG in this specific sector. Estimations for the CAGR for PG
are between 4-7% (see case study) for the global market, which is within the line of the
low scenario for the building block product group.

Functionality and application area

Propylene glycol (PG) or 1,2-propanediol is a clear, colourless, slightly syrupy liquid at

room temperatures. It is odourless and tasteless. It is used by the chemical,
pharmaceutical and food industry. It is applied as anti-freezing agent when leakage might
lead to food contact, since it is generally recognized as safe for use in food. In food products
it is used as anti-caking agent, antioxidant, carrier, dough strengthened, emulsifier,
moister preserver, processing aid, stabilizer and thickener and texturizer. In Europe it is
only allowed in food as solvent for colours, emulsifiers, antioxidants and enzymes. It is
mostly used in packaged food, i.e. drink mixes, dried soup, cake mix, food colouring, fast-
food and dairy products.382 In tabaco industry it functions as moisturiser in cigarettes and
tobacco it is furthermore a main component in e-cigarette liquids.383 384 Its ability to absorb
water and maintain moisture is a relevant characteristic used in medicines and cosmetics.
It is further applied as solvent in food colours and by paint and plastic industries.385 In
automotive industry it is used as coolant due to its low freezing point. It helps to prevent
corrosion and to carry away waste heat in cooling systems.386 The main application for PG
is in unsaturated polyester resins, as de-icers and antifreeze agent.387

Sustainability

Due the availability of glycerol and its low price using the glycerol route remains to be the
most preferred one to produce bio-based PG.388 The environmental sustainability of bio-
based PG production would be significantly improved if the hydrogen used originates from
renewable sources. Bio-based PG can be produced 100% bio-based by using oil-based or
starch-based crops. The feedstock use is regionally specific, along with vegetable oils389,

382
Mandl, Elise, Propylene Glycol in Food. Is this additive safe? Healthline blog, 2018,
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/propylene-glycol, last viewed: 2020-10-26.
383
Chemiekontor (n.y.), Propylenglycol, https://www.chemiekontor.de/kuehlmittel/propylenglycol-1-2-propandiol-
technisch-mind.-99.5/, last viewed: 2020-10-23.
384
Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum (n.y.), Erhöhtes Gesundheitsrisiko durch Tabakzusatzstoffe, Propylenglykol,
https://www.dkfz.de/de/tabakkontrolle/download/PITOC/PITOC_Zusatzstoffe_Tabakprodukte_Propylenglykol.pdf,
last viewed: 2020-10-26.
385
PubChem (n.y.), Propylene glycol, Compound summary, National Library of Medicine, National Center for
Biotechnology Information, https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Propylene-glycol, last viewed: 2020-10-
23.
386
Coherent Market Insights, Bio-based propylene glycol market analysis, 2020,
https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/ongoing-insight/bio-based-propylene-glycol-market-2583, last viewed:
2020-10-26.
387
Joshi, Sachin, GT-ProG: Green Technology to Produce Propylene Glycol from Glycerine derived from Bio-diesel
Process, 2016, https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/gt-prog-green-technology-produce-propylene-glycol-from-sachin-
joshi/, last viewed: 2020-10-23.
388
Rosales-Calderon, O ; Arantes, V., A review on commercial-scale high-value products that can be produced
alongside cellulosic ethanol, Biotechnol Biofuels, 2019, 12(1):240, https://doi.org/10.1186/s13068-019-1529-1,
last viewed: 2020-10-27.
389
UFOP, Rapeseed oil remains primary feedstock for German biodiesel, Biodiesel Magazine, 2020,
http://www.biodieselmagazine.com/articles/2517088/rapeseed-oil-remains-primary-feedstock-for-german-
biodiesel, last viewed: 2020-10-27.

195
palm oil and soy oil are the cheapest, but controversies are related to their production.390
The use of palm and soy oil comes with environmental challenges and can lead to
deforestation, danger to biodiversity, reduction of soil quality and increased use of
fertilizers. Additionally, palm oil production has high land usage requirements.391 Besides
the environmental sustainability issues, the use of palm oil is controversial due to a possible
competition with food, potential human rights violations (illegal land grabbing displacement
of communities, human trafficking and child labour)392 and health issues (due to forest-
burning related smog).393

Life Cycle Analysis shows a 61% reduction of GHG emissions comparing bio-based with
fossil based PG, according to the US company ADM, which is producing 100% bio-based
propylene glycol.394 The most sustainable route is using certified palm oil, via the
oleochemical route which leads to a reduction of CO2–emissions with approximately 40%.
For the biodiesel route CO2-emissions can be reduced to 60% compared to the fossil
counterpart. The production of the feedstock counts for most of the impacts related to
climate change.395

PG provides a good alternative for environmentally sensitive antifreeze, coolant/heat

transfer and secondary refrigerant applications.396 397 The toxicity of propylene glycol is
very low. It has not been found to cause cancer, damage genes or interfere with fertility
or reproduction. Moreover, there are no reported deaths caused by PG. For people with
kidney and liver disease, drug alternatives without PG may be preferred, since the breaking
down process might be less efficient for these cases. There might also be a risk for infants
and pregnant women or people with heart disease if exposed to high dosages i.e. through
medication. However, there is no evidence that dietary amounts are cause of concern.
Between 0.8 and 3.5% of people are estimated to have a skin allergy to PG.398

Cigarettes produces and sold in the EU contain up to 2.4 percent PG which is used as
moisturiser. If smoked almost the entire amount will be transferred to the smoke which
can irritate eyes. Burning PG leads to propylene oxide which is classified as possible cancer
risk.399

Market value

PG is largely produced as site product from biodiesel production but policy and regulation
for sustainable transportation focus on green hydrogen and electrification rather than
biodiesel. Under RED II high iLUC feedstocks like palm oil and soy will be phased out, which
will lead to a reduced availability of biodiesel associated glycol. There are also market
studies which predict a high growth in the automobile sector were PG is mixed with coolant.

390
Buffet, L., High & low ILUC risk biofuels - Policy recommendations for the EU delegated act, 2019,
https://www.transportenvironment.org/sites/te/files/publications/2019_01_High_low_ILUC_TE_briefing_final.pdf,
last viewed: 2020-10-27.
391
Nachtergaele, P.; De Meester, S.; Dewulf, J., Environmental sustainability assessment of renewables-based
propylene glycol at full industrial scale production, J Chem Technol Biotechnol, Jun 1;94(6):1808–15, 2019,
https://doi.org/10.1002/jctb.5951, last viewed: 2020-10-27.
392
Book&Claim Ltd – GreenPalm (n.y.), The social and environmental impact of palm oil, https://greenpalm.org/about-
palm-oil/social-and-environmental-impact-of-palm-oil, last viewed: 2020-12-01.
393
Spott Org, Sustainability Policy Transparency Toolkit. Palm oil - Social impacts, 2016, https://www.spott.org/palm-
oil-resource-archive/impacts/social/, last viewed: 2020-12-01.
394
ADM, Propylene Glycol. Life Cycle Analysis, 2020 https://www.adm.com/products-services/industrials/propylene-
glycol/life-cycle-analysis, last viewed: 2020-10-23.
395
Nachtergaele, P.; De Meester, S.; Dewulf, J., Environmental sustainability assessment of renewables-based
propylene glycol at full industrial scale production, J Chem Technol Biotechnol, Jun 1;94(6):1808–15, 2019,
https://doi.org/10.1002/jctb.5951, last viewed: 2020-10-27.
396
Orison (n.y.), Biobased Propylene Glycol, https://orisonmarketing.com/pg.html, last viewed: 2020-10-23.
397
Belico Derma Concept (n.y.), What is propylene glycol?, https://www.belico.de/service-en-
gb/faq/konsreveriungsstoffe-2-en-gb/, last viewed: 2020-10-26.
398
Mandl, Elise, Propylene Glycol in Food. Is this additive safe?, healthline blog; 2018,
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/propylene-glycol, last viewed: 2020-10-26.
399
Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum (n.y.), Erhöhtes Gesundheitsrisiko durch Tabakzusatzstoffe, Propylenglykol,
https://www.dkfz.de/de/tabakkontrolle/download/PITOC/PITOC_Zusatzstoffe_Tabakprodukte_Propylenglykol.pdf,
last viewed: 2020-10-26.

196
Drivers are the objectives to reduce GHG emissions and to avoid using fossil feedstocks.400
A major driving force is the increased demand for eco-friendly methods of manufacturing,
reduced usage of petrochemical feedstocks and reduced emission gases.401

Market size and price

Most of the bio-based PG is produced outside Europe, in the US and in China.402 North
America, followed by Europe is the largest revenue-generating segment due to increasing
adoption of eco-friendly methods.403 UPM sees a CAGR of 5% and a market demand for PG
of >2mio tonnes.404 However there are also recent estimations for global CAGR of 7%
between 2017-2027.405 In 2018, the global PG market was estimated between 2 and 2.5
million tonnes from which bio-based PG was 5% (100 kt – 125 kt)406 The CAGR is estimated
at 4.4%.407 The European share in bio-based PG is estimated at 3% with 20 kt production
from glycerol while the fossil production is 633 kta. Production of bio-based PG is
considerable more expensive than fossil based PG.408

Case study: 1,4-Butanediol

The production of bio-based and biodegradable plastics used e.g. used as agricultural
mulch films can be a major driver for BDO, especially if supported by policy and
regulation. There is a review of the EU fertilizer directive in 2024, which provides a
window of opportunity to add such mulching films to the list of accepted polymers for
soil improvement. A recent analysis, which already considered the implications of the
COV19 pandemic, estimates the global CAGR for BDO with 6.2% and within Europe
forecasts a 4.4% CAGR. Which is currently in line with the low scenario estimated for
the building block product group.

Functionality and application area

1,4 – Butanediol is an industrial chemical used as solvent and building block to produce
plastics, elastic fibres and polyurethanes. BDO is biodegradable and mostly produced
through fossil-based pathways. Bio-Based 1,4 BDO is a drop-in product which could replace

400
Comserve, Impact of Covid-19 on Biobased Propylene Glycol Market 2020, Business Scenario, Future Demand and
Forecast to 2027, 2020, https://www.comserveonline.com/news-releases/impact-of-covid-19-on-biobased-
propylene-glycol-market-2020-business-scenario-future-demand-and-forecast-to-2027/10006872, last viewed:
2020-10-27.
401
Allied Market Research, World Bio-Based Propylene Glycol Market. Opportunities and Forecasts, 2020-2027, 2020,
https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/bio-based-propylene-glycol-market, last viewed: 2020-10-23.
402
de Guzman, D., Oleochemicals: Oleon enters glycerin-based propylene glycol, 2012,
https://www.icis.com/explore/resources/news/2012/07/16/9577645/oleochemicals-oleon-enters-glycerin-based-
propylene-glycol/, last viewed: 2020-10-27.
403
Allied Market Research, World Bio-Based Propylene Glycol Market. Opportunities and Forecasts, 2020-2027, 2020,
https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/bio-based-propylene-glycol-market, last viewed: 2020-10-23.
404
UPM, Aiming higher with Biofore, Investor presentation, October 2017, 2017,
https://www.upm.com/siteassets/asset/investors/2017/10-17-roadshow-presentation_final.pdf, last viewed: 2020-
10-23.
405
Comserve, Impact of Covid-19 on Biobased Propylene Glycol Market 2020, Business Scenario, Future Demand and
Forecast to 2027, 2020, https://www.comserveonline.com/news-releases/impact-of-covid-19-on-biobased-
propylene-glycol-market-2020-business-scenario-future-demand-and-forecast-to-2027/10006872, last viewed:
2020-10-27.
406
Nachtergaele, P., De Meester, S.; Dewulf, J., Environmental sustainability assessment of renewables-based
propylene glycol at full industrial scale production, J Chem Technol Biotechnol, Jun 1;94(6):1808–15, 2019,
https://doi.org/10.1002/jctb.5951, last viewed: 2020-10-27.
407
Markets and Markets, Propylene Glycol Market by Source (Petroleum-based, Bio-based), Grade (Industrial,
Pharmaceutical), End-use Industry (Transportation, Building & Construction, Food & Beverage, Pharmaceuticals,
Cosmetics & Personal Care), Region - Global Forecast to 2024, 2020,
https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/propylene-glycol-market-
264488864.html#:~:text=%5B176 Pages Report%5D, last viewed: 2020-10-27.
408
Spekreijse, Jurjen; Lammens, Tijs; Parisi, Claudia; Ronzon, Tevecia; Vis, Martijn, Insights into the European market
for bio-based chemicals, JRC Science Policy Report, 2019, https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/publication/insights-
european-market-bio-based-chemicals, last viewed: 2020-09-28.

197
fossil 1,4 BDO since it is chemically identical. Major users of fossil BDO are China, North
America and the European Union (2016, 2 Mtpa).409 410

Sustainability

BDO can be produced through two commercial routes, from corn though the sugar pathway
and from lignocellulosic feedstocks. The main European producer Novamont uses sugar as
feedstock and produces 1,4 – Butanediol using a biotechnological route licenced by
Genomatica.411 The lignocellulosic route might be considered as preferable from a
feedstock perspective, since no agricultural biomass would be needed hence no
competition to farm land for food and feed would occur. (see WP 3) Bio-Based BDO can be
produced 100% bio-based.

BDO is toxic and BDO derivatives such as THF come with health and safety issues. (WP 2)
There are concerns of using BDO and its derivates as drugs so that the European
Community and its Member States have taken voluntary measures to prevent this
diversion.412 BDO is sedative when ingested and can cause feelings of intoxication.413

BDO will break down in air by reaction with hydroxyl radicals. It will not volatize into air
from soil and water surfaces. BDO is biodegradable and does not accumulate in nature.414
Fermentation of bio-based BDO is an energy intensive process. According to a LCA
conducted by Novamont on bio-based BDO GHG emissions can be reduced by 60% across
the life cycle compared to fossil-based BDO.415

Market value

Apart from the general market pull measures supportive for bio-based products, there are
a few specific measures which are relevant for BDO and the BDO derived plastic polymers.
One example is the market pull through regulations which aim to reduce the amount of
plastics in the environment. This for examples impacts the use of agricultural mulching
films which although being made of PE and therefore not being biodegradable are often
not collected from the fields sufficiently after their use. The demand to use biodegradable
films for these applications does create a clear pull for BDO being an important building
block for biodegradable plastic films.416 417 During the revision of the EU fertilizer regulation
affords have been undertaken to add biodegradable mulching films into the regulation with
a clear reference to the European Standard for biodegradable plastic mulching films in soil
(EN 17033).418 However the final regulation does not contain more than a provision to

409
COWI, Bio-Based World News, Ecologic Institute, Bio-Based Products from idea to market, Study for the European
Commission, 2019, http://news.bio-based.eu/media/2019/03/KI0718113ENN.en_.pdf, last viewed: 2020-09-21,
p.11.
410
n.A. (n.y.), Factsheet Mater Biotech, novamont,
https://www.novamont.com/public/zip/factsheet_materbiotech_EN_web.pdf, last viewed: 2020-09-23.
411
n.A. (n.y , last viewed: 2020-09-21. , What is Bio-BDO?, Bioplastics News, https://bioplasticsnews.com/bio-bdo-
bio-butanediol-novamont/ , last viewed: 2020-09-21.
412
World Health Organization Expert Committee on Drug Dependence, 1,4-Butanediol (I,4 BD) Critical Review Report,
2014, https://www.who.int/medicines/areas/quality_safety/4_4_Review.pdf, last viewed: 2020-12-01.
413
PubChem (n.y.), 1,4-Butanediol. Use and Manufacturing, https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/1%2C4-
butanediol#section=Use-and-Manufacturing, last viewed: 2020-09-23.
414
PubChem (n.y.), 1,4-Butanediol. Use and Manufacturing, https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/1%2C4-
butanediol#section=Use-and-Manufacturing, last viewed: 2020-09-23.
415
COWI, Bio-Based World News, Ecologic Institute, Bio-Based Products from idea to market, Study for the European
Commission, 2019, http://news.bio-based.eu/media/2019/03/KI0718113ENN.en_.pdf, p. 14, last viewed: 2020-
09-21.
416
Novamont, Mater-Bi Soil Biodegradable for Mulching Film. Certified for Organic Farming by AIAB, press release ,
2020, https://www.novamont.com/eng/read-press-release/mater-bi-soil-biodegradable-for-mulching-film-certified-
for-organic-farming-by-aiab/, last viewed: 2020-09-24.
417
OWS, Expert Statement (Bio)Degradable Mulching Films, 2017, https://www.docs.european-
bioplastics.org/publications/OWS_Expert_statement_mulching_films.pdf, last viewed: 2020-09-24.
418
European Bioplastics, Biodegradable mulch films supported in revision of EU Fertilisers Regulation, 2017,
https://www.european-bioplastics.org/biodegradable-mulch-films-supported-in-revision-of-eu-fertilisers-
regulation/; last viewed: 2020-09-24.

198
review by July 2024 the possibility of adding such mulching films in the future to the list of
polymers relevant to support soil improvement.419

Looking at the application of BDO derived plastics in the automobile industry there seems
to be a need to clearly show the environmental advantage of using such bio-based
materials to consumers. According to Wuster/Ladu 2019 potentials of the automotive
industry are not realised due to a lack of standardisation. Furthermore, an environmental
label to certify the sustainability of various automobile components would further support
consumer communication.420

However, BDO is mainly produced in Asia, where also the down-stream end-user industries
are located.421 Therefore any efforts to improve standardisation and certification in this
respect need to be focused on these markets or carried out at a global level.

Market size and price

The production of bio-BDO and fossil based BDO is tied to the oil and natural gas price.
Currently the prospects to be used as drop-in chemical are low. Estimations suggest that
production costs would be competitive at a low oil price of 45 USD/bbl range. (see WP 2)
According to Prodcom in 2018 35.000 t Bio-BDO were produced.422 Major companies
producing bio-BDO include DSM, BASF SE, Novamont, Ashland and Mitsubishi Chemical
Corporation.423 A recent analyses, which already considered the implications of the COV19
pandemic, estimates the global CAGR for BDO with 6.2% and within Europe forecasts a
4.4% CAGR.424

Case study: Biomethanol

The production costs for Biomethanol are higher than for fossil-based methanol which is
a clear technical barrier. Incentives to use biomethanol in the chemistry sector instead
of the fuel market which is currently the case can become a clear driver for biomethanol
demand. The EU market has predicted a growth rate of 3.72% that is slightly below the
growth rate of the entire building block market in the low scenario.

Functionality and application area

Biomethanol is chemically identical with fossil derived methanol. It is a light, clear,

flammable liquid chemical that is water soluble and readily biodegradable. Its formula
CH3OH is often abbreviated with MeOH. It is a simple alcohol also known as methyl alcohol
or wood alcohol as it was produced from wood in the beginning.

419
Regulation (EU) 2019/1009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5, June 2019 laying down rules on the
making available on the market of EU fertilising products and amending Regulations (EC) No 1069/2009 and (EC)
No 1107/2009 and repealing Regulation (EC) No 2003/2003Article 50 Biodegradability review, Official Journal of
the European Union, L170/36, 2019-06-25.
420
BDO has markets in the automotive industry, however, this industry has not yet developed an eco-labelling system
that would stimulate markets and enable more informed purchasing behaviour in terms of environmentally friendly
materials, See Wuster/Ladu 2020.
421
COWI, Bio-Based World News, Ecologic Institute, Bio-Based Products from idea to market, Study for the European
Commission, 2019, http://news.bio-based.eu/media/2019/03/KI0718113ENN.en_.pdf, p. 14, last viewed: 2020-
09-21.
422
Prodcom, 2018.
423
n.A., Bio-Based 1,4-Butandiol Market Growth, Trends and Forecast 2020-2025, Mordor Intelligence, 2019,
https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/bio-based-1-4-butanediol-market, last viewed: 2020-09-23.
424
Global Industry Analysts, Global 1,4 Butanediol Industry, Market Impact Survey, COVID 19 & Looming Recession,
July, 2020, https://www.reportlinker.com/p05898913/Global-1-4-Butanediol-Industry.html?utm_source=GNW, last
viewed: 2020-12-02.

199
Today, methanol is mostly produced from natural gas as feedstock. Methanol is used to
produce chemical derivatives, which are used to produce various products of daily lives
(e.g. building materials, foams, resins, plastics, paints, polyester, pharmaceuticals).

The largest share of methanol is processed into formaldehyde, which is further processed
into resins, glues and various plastics. It is also used to produce acetic acid as a precursor
of polyester fibres and PET.

Methanol is also used as a transport fuel.

Sustainability

Biomethanol can be produced from a range of biomass feedstocks i.e. municipal solid waste
(MSW), agricultural waste and forestry residues. These are some of the largest sources
but not the only ones. Further to biomethanol, under the term “renewable methanol” more
feedstock and production pathways are being developed (e.g. from CO2-capture and
hydrogen produced via renewable electricity).

Agricultural waste is a feedstock for biomethanol that does not food prices or leads to
negative direct and indirect land use change effects. Estimations are that around 998
million tons of agricultural waste are produced every year. In Europe, estimations are that
a potential amount of residues of 146,000 kta of dry matter could be collected in EU-27
without impacting the current Soil Organic Carbon stocks.425

A large amount of residual biomass, such as leaves, branches, needles and woodchips, is
produced in the process of harvesting trees. These by-products can be used as a feedstock
for producing biochemicals such as renewable methanol.

Using Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) to produce waste-based methanol creates value from
unrecyclable garbage and relieves pressure on landfill sites.

Every year 1.3 billion metric tonnes of MSW are produced globally and this is expected to
increase to 2.2 billion metric tonnes by 2025. Managing such volumes of waste poses great
challenges for municipalities and governments.

Globally two thirds of MSW are either dumped in landfills or incinerated. A significant
portion of this waste could be diverted towards producing sustainable chemicals, including
renewable methanol.

Biochemical company Enerkem estimates that up to 420 million metric tonnes of

unrecyclable waste could be turned into biochemicals, using their technology. Enerkem is
building a plant in Rotterdam, which will turn 350,000 metric tonnes of waste, including
plastic matter, into 270 million litres of methanol every year.426

Methanol can be very toxic for humans if ingested. However, this naturally occurring
molecule has a very low impact when released into the environment because it biodegrades
quickly.

Making and using renewable methanol does not only reduce carbon dioxide emissions, it
also reduces other harmful air pollutants including nitrogen and sulphur oxides (NOx and
SOx), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), particulate matter and other toxic pollutants.

Estimates of CO2 emissions from biomethanol production vary widely in the literature,
depending on different assumptions. A study from the German Biomass Research Centre,

425
Monforti, Lugato; Motola, Bodis; Scarlat, Dallemand, Optimal energy use of agricultural crop residues preserving
soil organic carbon stocks in Europe, 2015,
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1364032114010855; last viewed 2020-12-14.
426
Hobson, Charlie, Márquez, Carlos, Renewable Methanol Report, 2018, https://www.methanol.org/wp-
content/uploads/2019/01/MethanolReport.pdf, last viewed 2020-12-15.

200
DBFZ from 2010 estimated 0.64 tCO2eq/t methanol for a production based on short
rotation coppice, and 0.56 tCO2eq/t for forest residues as feedstock, compared to methanol
from natural gas at 0.84 tCO2eq/t methanol. Taking the higher emission value as a
conservative assumption this corresponds to 0.2 t CO2eq/t methanol or 24% emission
reduction. In addition, the biogenic carbon sequestered in methanol corresponds to 1.37
tCO2, yielding an avoidance potential of 1.57 tCO2/t methanol.427 428

Market value

In 2018 the European Parliament, Council and Commission agreed on the Renewable
Energy Directive II (RED II), requiring 14% renewable energy to be used in transport by
2030. RED II has created new markets for conventional biofuels like ethanol and biodiesel
and for alternative biofuels such as renewable methanol, especially when made from
wastes, residues or renewable electricity (Renewable Energy Directive II, Annex IX Part
A). Other European policies also impact the potential uptake of renewable methanol: the
Fuel Quality Directive, the Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Directive, and the Air Quality
Directive, among others.

Due to these policies, biomethanol is almost exclusively used for fuel applications currently.

Market size and price

The global demand for methanol in 2018 was at 78,900 kta with 19,100 kta going into
fuels.429 In Europe, methanol (not biomethanol) is predominately produced from natural
gas via steam reforming, to a very small extent also from heavy oil. Production volume is
at 1.5 million tonnes. For the traditional use of methanol, i.e. not considering additional
demands based on the technologies described in this study, production is expected to
increase to 2.17 million tonnes in 2050.

Future development of (bio)methanol production will depend on different factors, such as

the development of the crude oil price, natural gas price and prices for coal. In IEA
projections to 2025, methanol production capacity additions are highly concentrated in
North America and the Asia-Pacific region owing to the availability of low-cost gas (in the
United States) and coal (in China) for feedstock.430

According to a market report from the Methanol Institute, biomethanol is commercially

produced by several companies in Europe with several more operating on a demonstration
scale. BASF, and BioMCN are operating commercial scale plants which rely on different
feedstocks and production processes. Enerkem is producing biomethanol in Canada using
municipal solid waste as a feedstock. New Fuel and Nordic Green seem to be dealing with
biomethanol without having own production.431

For basic chemicals, the raw material costs usually represent 60–70% of the production
costs. Hence production cost of biomass-derived methanol is largely dominated by the
relatively high costs of agricultural and forestry biomass in comparison to fossil feedstocks.
The costs of methanol production from biomass has been quantified in many studies and

427
S. Majer, A. Gröngröft, Environmental and economic assessment of for biodiesel production, Deutsches Biomasse
Forschungszentrum, Leipzig, Germany, 2010,
https://www.ufop.de/files/4613/3940/7473/20101026_DBFZ_Kurzstudie_Biomethanol_eng.pdf; last viewed 2020-
12-14.
428
Bazzanella, Alexis Michael; Ausfelder, Florian, Low carbon energy and feedstock for the European chemical industry,
DECHEMA e.V. 2017,
https://dechema.de/dechema_media/Downloads/Positionspapiere/Technology_study_Low_carbon_energy_and_fee
dstock_for_the_European_chemical_industry.pdf; last viewed: 2020-11-04.
429
Argu, Argus Global Methanol Demand in 2018, 2018, https://www.argusmedia.com/-/media/Files/brochures-and-
downloads/global-methanol-demand-2018-flow-
chart.ashx?la=en&hash=090F0C06A6A396546B3698F913E6A1AC54DEAE8E; last viewed: 2020-12-14.
430
IEA, Chemicals, IEA, Paris, 2020, https://www.iea.org/reports/chemicals; last viewed: 2020-12-14.
431
Hobson et al, Methanol Report, 2018, https://www.methanol.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/MethanolReport.pdf,
last view: 2020-12-18.

201
ranges from 160 €/t methanol up to 940 €/t, very much depending on plant setups and
local conditions. Cost estimates at a higher annual production capacity are on the lower
end, indicating economy of scale effects. Production costs for biomethanol from waste
streams are slightly lower compared to wood, i.e. between 200-500 €/t. Compared to
cheapest fossil fuel based production, biomethanol production costs are at least 1.5 times
higher, capital cost per unit of capacity is at least 3.4 times higher than the capital cost of
natural gas based plants. It was also estimated that biomethanol plants are about 1.8
times more expensive than bio-ethanol facilities on the basis of the same energy output.432

During 2017, BioMCN produced nearly 60,000 tonnes of renewable methanol which was
primarily sold as a biofuel in the European transportation sector. Today, BioMCN consumes
more than half of all the biogas produced in the Netherlands and has begun to source
biogas from neighbouring EU countries. As the number of digesters and availability of
biogas grows in the future, BioMCN expects its production of renewable methanol will grow
and its reliance on conventional natural gas will decrease.433

Additionally to the companies named by the Methanol Institute, the pulp and paper
company Södra has started its first commercial biomethanol plant in 2020 using crude
methanol from its production process to produce as much as 5,250 tonnes of forest based
biomethanol per year.434

BASF is a producer of Biomethanol, too, with production volumes not known to the
authors.435 Since it is produced using the mass balance approach it is possible that BASF
uses regular natural gas from the grid and buys green gas certificates to pay for upgraded
biogas injected into the grid. The same is true for BioMCN after their acquisition by OCI.
This would disqualify them as a biorefinery as defined within this study.

Case study: Lactic Acid

Increased use of bio-based polylactic acid (PLA) or PLA composites in packaging, textiles,
agriculture, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals drive the lactic acid market. In 2019 Grand
View Research predicted a market growth of 18.7% until 2025. However, a recent report
estimates the global CAGR for LA between 2021-2026 with 2.5% taking the impact of
the current pandemic into account.

Functionality and application area

Lactic acid (LA) is extensively used in the food industry as a food preservative, flavouring
agent and pH regulator.436 437 LA also finds diverse applications in cosmetics,
pharmaceuticals and the polymer industries where it is used as an antimicrobial agent,
flavouring agent, moisturizer, green solvent and cleaning agent. LA has the potential to be
further converted in other chemicals, for example propylene glycol, acetaldehyde, acrylic

432
Ibidem.
433
Ibidem.
434
Södra, Refueling the Future, n.y., https://www.sodra.com/en/global/Bioproducts/biomethanol/: last viewed: 2020-
11-04.
435
BASF, BASF produces methanol according to the biomass balance approach, n.y,
https://www.basf.com/global/en/media/news-releases/2018/11/p-18-370.html; last view: 2020-11-04.
436
Aeschelmann, F., Baltus, W., Blum, H., Busch, R., Carrez, D., Carus, M., Dammer, L., Dommermuth, B., Eder, A.,
Essel, F., Ißbrücker, C., Käb, H., Lange, K., Liptow, C., Philp, J., Raschka, A., Ravenstijn, J., Pogrell, von P.,
Zepnik, S., Bio-based Building Blocks and Polymers in the World. Capacities, Production and Applications: Status
Quo and Trends towards 2020. nova-Institut GmbH, Hürth, Germany, 2015, p. 12.
437
Manandhar, A., Shah, A., Techno-Economic analysis of bio-based lactic acid production utilizing corn grain as
feedstock. Department of Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering, The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH
44691, USA. 2020, 8(2), 199; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr8020199.

202
acid, polymers etc.438 The primary application of lactic acid is however as a monomer in
the production of the bio-based plastic polylactic acid.

Sustainability

There are various different ways, which can be used to synthesise lactic acid, such as the
fermentation of glycose using bacteria, fungi or yeast. Food waste, agricultural residues,
sugar cane and starch-based biomass are part of the broad range of feedstock available
for synthesising LA.439

Lactic acid can further be converted into the monomer lactide, which then is polymerized
to polylactic acid (PLA). The production of PLA is 100% bio-based. PLA has a similar
performance compared with conventional polymers though it is 3-times less carbon
intensive. Through industrial compositing or depolymerisation, lactic acid (the initial
monomer) can be recycled for the production of PLA.440 Due to its non-toxicity, lactic acid
is important for the production of polylactic acid which has various applications such as
food packaging.441

The production of LA by the biological conversation of wheat as compared to traditional

chemical synthesis was observed to increase the energy efficiency by 47% while decreasing
the total costs by 17%, thereby making it economically viable.442

Market value

The production of bio-based lactic acid is strongly influenced by the crude oil prices. The
demand for bio-based lactic acid often decreases when the price of oil drops even though
customers prefer a sustainable product with higher performance.443

The production of lactic acid itself is expected to increase with the application of polylactic
acid in packaging, textiles, agriculture, car parts as well as 3D printing.444 445 The demand
for lactic acid in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industry is expected to rise because LA
does not only enhances skin lightening but also has the ability to renew cells. High
expectations are placed above all on the personal care products.446

Asia is predicted to be the leading producer of PLA due to better access to feedstock along
with a favourable political scenario. The demand for lactic acid is high in Asia due to the
fast industrialization of personal care products on the Asian continent.447

438
Juodeikiene, G., Vidmantiene, D., Basinskiene, L., Cernauskas, D., Bartkiene, E., Cizeikiene, D., Green metrics for
sustainability of biobased lactic acid from starchy biomass vs chemical synthesis. In: Catalysis Today. Volume 239,
1 January 2015, p. 11-16. Published by Elsevier. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cattod.2014.05.039.
439
Manandhar, A., Shah, A., Techno-Economic analysis of bio-based lactic acid production utilizing corn grain as
feedstock. Department of Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering, The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH
44691, USA. 2020, 8(2), 199, 2020, https://doi.org/10.3390/pr8020199
440
Total, Total carbon PLA. A market leader in bio plastics, n.y., https://www.total.com/energy-
expertise/projects/bioenergies/pla-bioplastic, last viewed: 2020-12-01.
441
Ibidem.
442
Juodeikiene, G., Vidmantiene, D., Basinskiene, L., Cernauskas, D., Bartkiene, E., Cizeikiene, D., Green metrics for
sustainability of biobased lactic acid from starchy biomass vs chemical synthesis. In: Catalysis Today. Volume 239,
1 January 2015, p. 11-16. Published by Elsevier. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cattod.2014.05.039.
443
Chemical & Engineering News, Is clarity coming for biobased chemicals?, 2020,
https://cen.acs.org/environment/sustainability/clarity-coming-biobased-chemicals/98/i26?referral=930AA653-
F007-43FB-95BC-6ECEFAA4A560, last viewed: 2020-12-01.
444
Nattrass, L., Biggs, C., Bauen, A., Parisi, C., Rodríguez-Cerezo, E., Gómez-Barbero, M., The EU bio-based Industry:
Results from a survey, European Union. EUR 27736 EN; 2016, doi:10.2791/806858.
445
Grand View Research, Lactic Acid Market Size, Share & Trend Analysis Report By Raw Material (Corn, Sugarcane),
By Application (Industrial, Food & Beverages, Polylactic Acid), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2019–2025,
2017 source: http://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/lactic-acid-and-poly-lactic-acid-market, last
viewed: 2020-12-01.
446
Ibidem.
447
Ibidem.

203
Market size and price

An analysis from Nexant (2019) estimated a lactic acid production capacity of around 800
kta globally, whereas the main producers are located in Thailand and the United States.448
The main producers of lactic acid in Europe are located in Spain, Belgium and Ireland. PLA
is mainly produced in the Netherlands, Belgium, UK, Swiss and Germany.449 450 The annual
turnover of lactic acid with the EU-28 was estimated with 95 € million. The price per kg is
estimated with 1460 €/t (ranging from 1170 €/t – 2070 €/t).451

The production costs associated with the production of bio-based lactic acid is highly
sensitive to sugar-to-lactic-acid conversion rates, feedstock price, plant size and annual
operation hours.452 In 2019 Grand View Research predicted a market growth of 18.7% until
2025. However, a recent report estimates the global CAGR for LA between 2021-2026 with
2.5%.453

Lubricants

Product group composition

Lubricant is a collective term for substances that reduce friction and (mechanical) stress
on counteracting or moving machine parts. Lubrication reduces energy consumption and
material wear and acts as a coolant454. There are different application areas for lubricants,
like hydraulic fluids, engine oils, gear oils, lubricating greases, chain saw oils, moulding
oils, engine oils, metalworking fluids etc. Thus, it is necessary to adjust the lubricants for
each application separately.

448
Nexant. Markets & Profitability. Market Insights: Polylactic Acid – 2019. 2019,
https://www.nexantsubscriptions.com/file/140196/download?token=YG3CnZhQ, last viewed: 2020-12-14.
449
Ibidem.
450
Production price from expert interview conducted in the context of JRC study: Spekreijse, Jurjen; Lammens, Tijs;
Parisi, Claudia; Ronzon, Tevecia; Vis, Martijn, Insights into the European market for bio-based chemicals, Analysis
based on 10 key product categories, JRC Science Policy Report, 2019,
https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/publication/insights-european-market-bio-based-chemicals, last view: 2020-12-03.
451
Grand View Research, Lactic Acid Market Size, Share & Trend Analysis Report By Raw Material (Corn, Sugarcane),
By Application (Industrial, Food & Beverages, Polylactic Acid), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2019–2025,
2017 source: http://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/lactic-acid-and-poly-lactic-acid-market, last
viewed: 2020-12-01.
452
Total, Total carbon PLA. A market leader in bio plastics, n.y., https://www.total.com/energy-
expertise/projects/bioenergies/pla-bioplastic, last viewed: 2020-12-01.
453
Wallstreet Online, Lactic Acid Market Size USD 1156.5 Million by 2026 at a CAGR 2.5%, 2020,
https://www.wallstreet-online.de/nachricht/13193337-lactic-acid-market-size-usd-1156-5-million-by-2026-at-a-
cagr-2-5-valuates-reports/all, last viewed: 2020-12-02.
454
University of Bologna and Fraunhofer ISI, 2018, p.170 https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-
/publication/15135e98-81c2-11e9-9f05-01aa75ed71a1.

204
Bio-based lubricants

Basic market data for bio-based lubricants

Total EU production: 6,764 kta EU bio-based production: 237 kta

EU bio-based share of production: 3.5% EU bio-based consumption: 220 kta

Scenarios
High Low

The high replacement potential will be realised Regulatory measures are not put in place so
substituting traditional lubricants with bio-based replacement potential will remain unexploited
lubricants. Cost competitiveness will not be improved due to
Bio-based lubricants are developed and could work in 90 missing Environmental regulation
of all applications Vegetable oils cannot be recycled so easily,
Where performance is poor compared with fossil because of degradation (polymerization) and other
lubricants, R&D efforts and new partnerships between irreversible changes
producers and potential customers have helped to Current feedstock base is competing with food and
improve product properties feed use
Legislator commit/incentives
automobile/engine/equipment producers to include bio-
based lubricants into specifications
Legislator makes it mandatory to use bio-based
lubricants in more ecologically environments vulnerable
to leakage (e.g. hydraulic fluids, lubricants used in
marine areas e.g. wind turbines)
Cost competitiveness is increased vs fossil lubricants via
GHG related measures (sector targets, ETS adjustment,
taxation)
High crude oil price
High availability of sustainable feedstock for bio-based
lubricants

EU CAGR: 11% EU CAGR: 2%

EU Consumption in 2030: 660 kta EU Consumption in 2030: 275 kta

Case study: Fatty acid PEG esters

One driver for PEG is the need to substitute nonylphenol ethoxylates. Relevant
applications are in cosmetics, personal care, textiles and the lubricant industry. The
global Fatty Acid Ester Market has a predicted CAGR of 4.5%. There are no specific
estimations for PEG available. This is within the range of the current low scenario for the
lubricants product group.

Functionality and application area

PEGs and PEG derivatives are no definite chemical entities, but mixtures of compounds
varying in polymer chain lengths.455 PEGs with low molecular weights are viscous,
colourless liquids at room temperature, while PEGs with higher molecular weights are white
waxy solids with melting points below 67°C. PEGs are amphiphilic and soluble in water as
well as in many organic solvents. They are non-volatile, stable and no-hydrolysable
compounds.456 PEG cannot be exposed under direct sunlight or heat and have a limited
storage time (generally one year).457

455
Creative PEG Works, PEG products, n.y, https://www.creativepegworks.com/product.php?cid=8, last view: 2020-
09-30.
456
Casiraghi, Antonella; Selmin, Francesca; Minghetti, Paola; Cilurzo, Francesco; Montanari, Luisa, Nonionic
Surfactants. Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) Ethers and Fatty Acid Esters as Penetration Enhancers, in: Dragicevic, Nina;
Maibach, Howard I. (ed.): Percutaneous penetration enhancers. Chemcial methods in penetration enhancement.
Modification of the Stratum Corneum, Berlin; Heidelberg; New York; Dordrecht; London, 2015, p. 251f.
457
PR-Inside, PEG and PPG esters market to make great impact in near future by 2026, 2017, https://www.pr-
inside.com/peg-and-ppg-esters-market-to-make-great-impact-in--r4587241.htm, last viewed: 2020-09-28.

205
PEGs are used as emulsifiers, skin conditioner and humectants. They are save for human
health, as they are not expected to be absorbed into systemic circulation when applied to
the skin.458 PEGs and PEG derivatives are applied in different areas including the food
industry, pharmaceutical and biomedical field. In pharmaceuticals they are used as
excipients for liquid, solid and semisolid dosage forms for human and veterinary drugs.459

PEGs and corresponding ethers and fatty acid esters produce little or no irritation at ocular
or dermal level and have extremely low acute and chronic toxicities, they are mild on skin,
even at high concentrations and long-term exposure. They should not be applied to
damaged skin though460 461

Additionally, PEGs are used as surfactant and cleansing agent due to their excellent
water/oil emulsifying properties; e.g. as lubricants in textile processing, cutting oils,
metalworking fluids. Other applications use wetting/dispersing properties e.g. as pigment
dispersants for both organic and inorganic pigments in aqueous and non-aqueous
systems.462 PEG are also used as resin plasticizers463 and additive during polymer
production464.

Sustainability

PEG ester are manufactured by reacting a polyethylene glycol with a fatty acid.465
Feedstocks used to produce PEG esters include palm oil, sunflower oil and other edible
oils.466 PEG could replace Nonylphenol Ethoxylates467 which were used in cleaning agents
and are widely restricted in the EU due to their negative environmental effects (eco-toxicity
and high bioaccumulation potential). PEG esters are readily biodegradable (up to PEG
1500), however this ability is decreasing with growing molecular weight. PEGs are
considered to be low hazardous to water.468

Market value

The Asian-Pacific region represents the large market for production and consumption of
PEGs (i.e. India and China). However, applications in cosmetics and personal care increase
demand in developed regions. Further markets driving the consumption include textiles

458
Ibidem.
459
Casiraghi, Antonella; Selmin, Francesca; Minghetti, Paola; Cilurzo, Francesco; Montanari, Luisa, Nonionic
Surfactants. Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) Ethers and Fatty Acid Esters as Penetration Enhancers, in: Dragicevic, Nina;
Maibach, Howard I. (ed.): Percutaneous penetration enhancers. Chemcial methods in penetration enhancement.
Modification of the Stratum Corneum, Berlin; Heidelberg; New York; Dordrecht; London, 2015, p. 251f.
460
Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded in 2016 that the caveat for PEG propylene glycol derivatives as
used in cosmetics to not use them on demanded skin should be removed and that PEG are safe as used. See:
Cosmetic Ingredient Review, Amended Safety Assessment of PEG Propylene Glycol Esters as used in cosmetics,
2016, https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/propylene_glycol_esters.pdf, last viewed: 2020-09-30.
461
Fruijtier-Pölloth, Claudia, Safety assessment on polyethylene glycols (PEGs) and their derivates as used in cosmetic
products, in: Toxicology, 2005, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0300483X05002696, last
view: 2020-09-28.
462
FACI Group, PEG esters, n.y., https://echem-group.com/product/peg-esters, last viewed: 2020-09-28.
463
PR-Inside, PEG and PPG esters market to make great impact in near future by 2026, 2017, https://www.pr-
inside.com/peg-and-ppg-esters-market-to-make-great-impact-in--r4587241.htm, last viewed: 2020-09-28.
464
Rohnstock, Falk (2018): Über den Wirkmechanismus von Polyethylenglykol als Additiv zur Gefügeverdichtung im
Rotationsformverfahren, Schriftenreihe Kunststoff-Forschung 82, TU Berlin, source: https://depositonce.tu-
berlin.de/bitstream/11303/6746/3/rohnstock_falk.pdf, last view: 2020-10-02.
465
FACI Group, PEG esters, n.y., https://echem-group.com/product/peg-esters, last viewed: 2020-09-28.
466
PR-Inside, PEG and PPG esters market to make great impact in near future by 2026, 2017, https://www.pr-
inside.com/peg-and-ppg-esters-market-to-make-great-impact-in--r4587241.htm, last viewed: 2020-09-28.
467
Umweltbundesamt, Nonylphenol und seine Ethoxylate, 2016, https://www.umweltbundesamt.de/nonylphenol-
seine-ethoxylate, last viewed: 2020-09-28.
468
GESTIS-Substance Database: Polyethylene glycol, molecular weight 200-600, source: http://gestis-en.itrust.de,
last view: 2020-09-30 as well as GESTIS-Substance Database: Polyethylene glycol, molecular weight > 600
source: http://gestis-en.itrust.de, last viewed: 2020-09-30.

206
and the lubricant industry. North America holds the biggest share in terms of consumption
followed by Europe and other regions.469

Market size and price

The EU production of PEG ester was estimated with 50kta for the EU28 in the 2019 JRC
study.470 The annual turnover with the EU-28 was estimated with 117 € million.471 The
price per kg is estimated with 2350 €/t ranging from 1700 €/t to 3000 €/t.472 There are no
specific CAGR estimations for PEG available. However, the global Fatty Acid Ester Market
has a predicted CAGR of 4.5%.473

Solvents

Composition of product group

Solvents are compounds that are able to dissolve other substances without chemically
changing them. Organic solvents can be divided into three main groups: oxygenated,
hydrocarbon, and halogenated solvents. Multiple bio-based solvents exist, like: acetic acid,
methanol, ethyl acetate, acetone, lactic acid, propylene glycol, ethyl lactate, glycerol.

As this section is based on the JRC 2019 study474 the following limitation has to be made.
Isoalkanes are commonly used as lubricants and were therefore included in the lubricant
category in the JRC 2019 report.

469
PR-Inside, PEG and PPG esters market to make great impact in near future by 2026, 2017, https://www.pr-
inside.com/peg-and-ppg-esters-market-to-make-great-impact-in--r4587241.htm, last viewed: 2020-09-28.
470
Spekreijse, Jurjen; Lammens, Tijs; Parisi, Claudia; Ronzon, Tevecia; Vis, Martijn, Insights into the European market
for bio-based chemicals, Analysis based on 10 key product categories, JRC Science Policy Report, 2019,
https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/publication/insights-european-market-bio-based-chemicals, last view: 2020-12-03.
471
PR-Inside, PEG and PPG esters market to make great impact in near future by 2026, 2017, https://www.pr-
inside.com/peg-and-ppg-esters-market-to-make-great-impact-in--r4587241.htm, last viewed: 2020-09-28.
472
Production price from expert interview conducted in the context of JRC study: Spekreijse, Jurjen; Lammens, Tijs;
Parisi, Claudia; Ronzon, Tevecia; Vis, Martijn, Insights into the European market for bio-based chemicals, Analysis
based on 10 key product categories, JRC Science Policy Report, 2019,
https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/publication/insights-european-market-bio-based-chemicals, last view: 2020-12-03.
473
Grand View Research, Fatty Acid Ester Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report by Product (Glyceryl
Monostearate, MCTs), by Application (Personal Care & Cosmetics, Food Processing), and Segment Forecasts, 2020
– 2027, 2020, https://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/3640164/fatty-acid-ester-market-size-share-and-
trends?utm_source=CI&utm_medium=PressRelease&utm_code=dd8c32&utm_campaign=1440761+-
+Global+Fatty+Acid+Ester+Markets%2c+2016-2019+%26+2020-
2027%3a+Focus+on+Personal+Care+%26+Cosmetics%2c+Food+Processing%2c+Surfactants+%26+Detergents
+and+Pharmaceuticals+&utm_exec=chdo54prd, last view : 2020-12-02.
474
Spekreijse, Jurjen; Lammens, Tijs; Parisi, Claudia; Ronzon, Tevecia; Vis, Martijn, Insights into the European market
for bio-based chemicals, Analysis based on 10 key product categories, JRC Science Policy Report, 2019,
https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/publication/insights-european-market-bio-based-chemicals, last view: 2020-12-03.

207
Bio-based solvents

Basic market data for bio-based solvents

Total EU production: 5,000 kta EU bio-based production: 75 kta

EU bio-based share of production: 1.5% EU bio-based consumption: 104 kta

Scenarios

High Low
The high replacement potential will be realised GHG related measures are not introduced (in
substituting traditional solvents with bio-based solvents. time), thus bio-based solvents cannot take
Bio-based is a marketing advantage and industry interest advantage of high replacement potential
is high. Oil price remains low
Due to successful R&D, performance is similar to fossil- R&D expenditure stalls thus performance does not
alternatives. improve
Relevant regulation relating to environmental standards,
health standards, bans will realise potential for bio-based
solvents as recyclability is sometimes better effecting
end-of-life options and economy and substituting fossil-
based alternatives with higher toxicity
EU introduces GHG relevant measures (sector targets,
ETS adjustment, tax) in near future which will bring up
competitiveness of bio-based solvents
High crude oil price
High R&D intensity to improve performance

EU CAGR: 19% EU CAGR: 2%

EU Consumption in 2030: 642 kta EU Consumption in 2030: 133 kta

Case study: Acetic acid

Introducing incentives to use biomethanol and ethanol not only in fuels but also in the
chemical sector can become a major driver for this market, which has currently an
estimated share of 4% until 2024. This is currently clearly below the CAGR estimations
for the entire solvent product group.

Functionality and application area

Acetic acid is widely used as a raw material in the production of industrial chemicals &
solvents. It is also used in food, pharmaceutical, textile, and cosmetics industry. It is a
drop-in chemical, chemically identical to fossil-based acetic acid. The market of acetic acid
is expected to expand owing to growing demand for applications like purified terephthalic
acid (PTA) and vinyl acetate monomer (VAM). PTA is used in the production of PET which
is used in packaging and textile industries. VAM is utilised in the production of chemicals
for solvents, paints and coatings and adhesives.

There are diverse ways of producing acetic acid. It can be produced from ethanol derived
from fermentation or methanol derived from syngas. Godavari Biorefineries Ltd. restarted
its production of bio-based acetic acid at its Sakarwadi facility in Maharashtra from August
2018. It is produced by oxidation of molasses-based ethanol. It is also possible to convert
sugars into acetic acid directly using acetogens (naturally occurring bacteria). ZeaChem in
the USA works on this fermentation process using lignocellulosic biomass such as wood,
straw and corn stover as feedstock. This enables 100% carbon conversion.

208
Alternatively, acetic acid can be attained as a side-product from wood pulping. It can be
either from the kraft process or extracted from spent sulphite liquor from sulphite pulping
and attained after several purification steps. Lenzing produces acetic acid in this way.475

Bio acetic acid is 100% bio-based and it is identical to fossil-based acetic acid (i.e. has the
same molecular structure). It thereby offers direct drop-in replacement for fossil-based
acetic acid.

Sustainability

Acetic acid can be made from fermenting sugars. For this sugar crops and starch crops are
used. Looking into the future, and to address possible future concerns with respect to
feedstock competition with food research on using sugars from lignocellulosic biomass is
ongoing. Also to increase the carbon efficiency and thereby reduce feedstock conversion
direct fermentation routes from sugars to acetic acid (not via ethanol) are investigated.

Considering the production route of acetic acid from kraft pulping and by extraction from
spent sulphite liquor, this does not have any demand on agricultural land as it is derived
from a residual stream. For the production route through methanol derived from syngas,
the biomass feedstock considered is lignocellulosic woody biomass, residues or wastes with
minimal or no competition with food.

Bio acetic acid production through extraction from spent sulphite liquor allows creating
value from residual streams. In most sulphite pulp mills, the spent liquor is concentrated
using multiple effect evaporators and then burned for energy production. Lenzing looks at
creating as much value as possible by converting wood into spectrum of products including
acetic acid, furfural, xylose, lignosulfonate, sodium sulphate and soda ash besides their
main product dissolving pulp for textile fibres.278 The remaining spent liquor is used for
creation of heat and electricity.

Bio-based acetic acid has enormous benefits over conventional acetic acid, such as low
toxicity, biodegradability and sustainability. Lenzing estimated its acetic acid (produced as
a side-product from sulphite pulping of wood) to have a carbon footprint which is 85%
lower than that of fossil-based acetic acid.476 Looking at the fermentation routes it is seen
that GHG results are very sensitive to the choice of purification steps used in attaining the
required purity where close to significantly better performance is seen in comparison to
fossil-based acetic acid.477

Market value

Bio acetic acid can be produced through ethanol and methanol. Renewable fuel mandates
around the world favour the blending of biomethanol and ethanol in fuels instead of use
for chemicals. The principles of the circular economy on the other hand favour the use for
value-added chemicals/materials.

Market size and price

Bio acetic acid production has higher production costs due to low productivity of the route
via methanol and ethanol. The direct fermentation to acetic acid with 100% carbon
efficiency would therefore be interesting. The production of acetic acid from sulphite

475
LenzingTM for Biorefinery Products, https://www.lenzingindustrial.com/Application/the-lenzing-biorefinery, last view:
2020-12-02.
476
LenzingTM for Biorefinery Products,The origin of solutions, smart solutions from botanic origins, acetic acid biobased,
2018, https://lenzing-industrial.cdn.prismic.io/lenzing-industrial%2F1ca29763-5bd6-4e7c-a4fd-
b1d2383a4341_lenzing+for+biorefinery+products_acetic+acid_leaflet_output_rgb_preview_v1.0_20181012.pdf,
Lenzing, Austria, last viewed 2020-12-02.
477
Budsberg, Erik, Morales-Vera, Rodrigo, Crawford, Jordan T, Bura, Renata, Gustafson, Rick, Production routes to
bio-acetic acid: life cycle assessment, in: BMC Biotechnology to Biofuels, n.y.,
https://biotechnologyforbiofuels.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13068-020-01784-y; last viewed: 2020-12-
15

209
pulping has also high purification and separation requirements to extract it from the spent
liquor and bring to the required specs.

The bio-acetic acid market is a consolidated market, where few major players hold
significant share of the market demand. Some of the major players in the market include
Zea2, Godavari Biorefineries Ltd., Sucroal SA, Novozymes AS, and Wacker Chemie AG,
amongst others.

In 2019, the market for bio-acetic acid was at 1,567 kt according to Mordor Intelligence.478
Production in Europe was at 24.5 kt.479

The major factors driving the growth of the market studied are the rising crude oil prices,
increasing demand for Vinyl Acetate Monomer (VAM) market, and stringent government
regulations. On the flip side, the scarcity & social constraints for raw materials, and
environmental concerns regarding the harmful effects are some of the factors hampering
growth.

The bio-acetic acid market is a consolidated market, where few major players hold
significant share of the market demand. Some of the major players in the market include
Zea2, Godavari Biorefineries Ltd., Sucroal SA, Novozymes AS, and Wacker Chemie AG,
amongst others.480 481 482 483

Regarding price, the JRC study 2019 estimates the price of bio-acetic acid to be 0.56 Eur/kg
which is lower than the price of fossil based acetic acid (0.68 Eur/kg) according to the JRC
study.484.

Surfactants

Composition of product group

Surfactants are compounds that lower the surface tension between fluids – gases, liquids
- or fluids and solids. Surfactants are widely used in cosmetics, personal and home care
products as dispersing agents and emulsifiers. Surfactants are produced from fossil and/or
bio-based raw materials. Actually, the first surfactant made by humans -soap- was already
completely bio-based.

The JRC 2019 study analysed specifically sophorolipids, glycolipids (other than
sophorolipids), esterquats, APG and carboxy methyl starch. According to the JRC 2019
study, these five surfactants add up to an EU production of 265 kta. Considering the global
market is 350-460 kta, it could well be due to the allocation of these surfactants’ production
only to the surfactant category, although they are also used in other application categories.
However, the biosurfactants market (biosurfactants wholly or partly bio-based) is difficult
to quantify using the open literature. Few data on production are available and many
estimates need to be made. Only the production volume of APG — 50 kta by Cognis in
Germany — is publicly available.485

478
Mordor Intelligence, Sample Global Bio-Acetic Acid Market (2020-2025).
479
Spekreijse, Jurjen; Lammens, Tijs; Parisi, Claudia; Ronzon, Tevecia; Vis, Martijn, Insights into the European market
for bio-based chemicals, Analysis based on 10 key product categories, JRC Science Policy Report, 2019,
https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/publication/insights-european-market-bio-based-chemicals, last view: 2020-12-03.
480
Godavari Biorefineries Ltd: https://www.somaiya.com/biobased-acetic-acid; last viewed: 2020-12-15
481
BioCorn Products, n.y., http://www.biocorn.co.ke/products, last viewed: 2020-12-15.
482
ZeaChem, n.y.,http://zeachem.squarespace.com/project-development; last viewed: 2020-12-15.
483
Energyworld.com, World Bio Fuel Day. IOC and Lanzatech set-up carbon dioxide to high-value lipids pilot plant,
2018, https://energy.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/oil-and-gas/world-bio-fuel-day-ioc-and-lanzatech-set-
up-carbon-dioxide-to-high-value-lipids-pilot-plant/65356858, last viewed: 2020-12-15.
484
Spekreijse, Jurjen; Lammens, Tijs; Parisi, Claudia; Ronzon, Tevecia; Vis, Martijn, Insights into the European market
for bio-based chemicals, Analysis based on 10 key product categories, JRC Science Policy Report, 2019,
https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/publication/insights-european-market-bio-based-chemicals, last view: 2020-12-03.
485
Ibidem.

210
The global biosurfactants market demand was 344.06 kilotons in 2013.486

Bio-based surfactants

Basic market data for bio-based surfactants

Total EU production: 3,000 kta EU bio-based production: 1,500 kta

EU bio-based share of production: 50% EU bio-based consumption: 1,800 kta

Scenarios

High Low

Increasing demand based on advanced/improved Oil prices remain low

properties. Purchasing power/net-income not increasing
New products entering the market as producers Consumers not willing to pay price premium
successfully developed 100% bio-based surfactants (e.g. GHG related regulations are not implemented/not
bio-ethylene oxide)487 488 implemented in time
surfactants are very close to the consumer market, thus
brand owners are willing to pay a premium
Production and use of bio-based surfactants generate less
GHG emissions and the carbon footprint can be lower
with bio-based than conventional (depending on the
process).
EU level sector targets for GHG reduction in EU chemicals
production have been introduced until 2025,
ETS scheme has stronger impact on chemical production,
Carbon tax levels gap to fossil alternatives, help demand
for 100% fossil free surfactants
High oil price
Increasing purchasing power/net-income

EU CAGR: 4% EU CAGR: 2%

EU Consumption in 2030: 2,700 kta EU Consumption in 2030: 2,250 kta

Case study: Fatty alcohol ethoxylate (FAE)

The need to remove nonylphenol ethoxylates from the market creates a clear driver for
the FAE market. CAGR are estimated with 4% until 2027, which is in line with the high
scenario CAGR of the surfactant product group.

Functionality and application area

Fatty alcohol ethoxylate are non-ionic environmentally friendly surfactants mostly utilized
in detergents, personal care products (i.e. shampoos) as well as textile and leather
processing.489 Furthermore, they are applied in fibre finish, crop protection, water
treatment, paints and coatings and lubricants.490 They can be hydrophilic or lipophilic

486
Grand View Research, Biosurfactants Market analysis by product (rhamnolipids, sophorolipids, MES, APG, sorbitan
esters, sucrose esters) and segment forecast to 2020; Biosurfactants Market Size & Share; Industry Growth
Report, 2020, 2015, https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/biosurfactants-industry, last viewed:
2020-12-15.
487
Unilever, Unilever to eliminate fossil fuels in cleaning products by 2030, Unilever to eliminate fossil fuels in cleaning
products by 2030, News/Unilever global company website; last viewed: 2020-12-15.
488
Croda, Turning the World’s Products Green: 100% Renewable, 100% Bio-Based ECO Range of Surfactants.
https://www.crodapersonalcare.com/en-gb/sustainability/sustainable-manufacturing/eco-plant; last viewed: 2020-
12-15.
489
Gujchem Chemicals, Ethoxylated Surfactants, n.y., https://gujchem.wordpress.com/2014/11/29/fatty-alcohol-
ethoxylates-uses/, last viewed: 2020-10-09.
490
Grand View Research, Alcohol Ethoxylates Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (Fatty Alcohol,
Lauryl Alcohol, Linear Alcohol), By Application (Emulsifier, Dispersing Agent, Wetting Agent), By End-use, And
Segment Forecasts, 2018 – 2025, 2017, https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/alcohol-
ethoxylate-market, last viewed: 2020-10-09.

211
depending on the composition and their specific hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB-value).
They are used as emulsifier for oil in water or water in oil emulsions. Furthermore, they
are utilized as solubilize oils to improve wetting. 491 Based on the specific type lauryl alcohol
ethoxylates and ceto stearyl alcohol ethoxylates together account for the largest market
share since they are widely applied in household cleaning and personal care products.492
FAE can differ from clear or misty, crystal clear liquids to white objects, dependent on the
type of ethoxylation.493 494

Sustainability

Fatty alcohols are derived from vegetable oils or from petrochemical sources. Ethylene
oxide used is typically obtained from petrochemical sources. However, Croda made 100%
bio-based fatty alcohol ethoxylate by producing bio-ethylene oxide using bio-based fatty
alcohol. The bioethylene oxide is produced from ethanol derived from corn or sugar cane.
The fatty alcohol is derived from palm oil, palm kernel oil or coconut oil.495 The bio-based
share of fatty alcohols has been considered to be 60%. The same is estimated for
ethoxylated fatty alcohols.496

Fatty alcohol ethoxylates are produced from the reaction of fatty alcohols with ethylene
oxide. Fatty alcohol is produced using oil crops which are associated with indirect changes
to land use which leads to deforestation and has negative climate and biodiversity impacts.
LCA studies have shown that palm kernel oil as feedstock for fatty alcohols leads to higher
GHG emissions than petroleum. However, LCA studies also reported that sustainability
metrics are quite variable depending on land use, farming methods, type of purification
used in palm mills and that the difference between fossil and bio-based under best practice
circumstances is minimal.497 498 Nonetheless, it is possible to derive fatty alcohol using
waste/residue fats, oil and greases which do not have indirect land use effects.
Furthermore, the ethylene oxide is most typically generated using sugars derived from
sugar and starch crops. This causes concern with respect to feedstock competition with
food. To address this issue the sugars can be extracted from lignocellulosic biomass
(pathway E).

FAE are highly metabolizable and therefore exhibit a low potential to bioaccumulate in
aquatic organisms. They can be aquatic toxic depending on the type of ethoxylate.499 500

491
Coda Home Care, ECO Brij C10, n.y., https://www.crodahomecare.com/en-gb/products-and-applications/product-
finder/product/4302/ECO_1_Brij_1_C10, last viewed: 2020-10-09.
492
Kahidilkar, Nikhil, Fatty alcohol ethoxylates market sees moderate growth, 2019,
https://communalnews.com/fatty-alcohol-ethoxylates-market-sees-moderate-growth/, last viewed: 2020-10-09.
493
Million Insights, Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylates Market Insights, Forecast to 2025, 2017,
https://www.millioninsights.com/industry-reports/fatty-alcohol-ethoxylates-fae-market, last viewed: 2020-10-09.
494
Sasol, Alcohol ethoxylates. Versatile alternatives for technical applications, n.y.,
http://www.sasoltechdata.com/MarketingBrochures/Alcohol_Ethoxylates.pdf, last viewed: 2020-10-09.
495
Coda Home Care, ECO Brij C10, n.y., https://www.crodahomecare.com/en-gb/products-and-applications/product-
finder/product/4302/ECO_1_Brij_1_C10, last viewed: 2020-10-09.
496
Spekreijse, Jurjen; Lammens, Tijs; Parisi, Claudia; Ronzon, Tevecia; Vis, Martijn, Insights into the European market
for bio-based chemicals, Analysis based on 10 key product categories, JRC Science Policy Report, 2019,
https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/publication/insights-european-market-bio-based-chemicals, last view: 2020-12-03.
497
Hayes DG, Smith GA. Chapter 1 - Biobased Surfactants: Overview and Industrial State of the Art [Internet]. Hayes
DG, Solaiman DKY, Ashby RDBT-BS (Second E, editors. AOCS Press; 2019 [cited 2020 Aug 7]. p. 3–38,
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780128127056000010.
498
Shah, Jignesh; Arslan, Erdem; Circucci, John; O’Brien, Julie; Moss, David, Comparison of Oleo- vs. Petro-Sourcing
of Fatty Alcohols via Cradle-to-Gate Life Cycle Assessment, in: Journal of Surfactants and Detergents, 19, p.1333-
1351, 2016, https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11743-016-1867-y, last viewed: 2020-10-05.
499
Bragin, Gail E.; Davis, Craig Warren; Kung, Ming H.; Kelley, Barbara A.; Sutherland, Cary A.; Lampi, Mark A.,
Biodegradation and Ecotoxicity of Branched Alcohol Ethoxylates. Application of the target lipid model and
implications for environmental classification, in: Journal Surfactants Deterg. 23 :383-403, 2020,
https://aocs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/jsde.12359, last view: 2020-10-09.
500
Lechuga, M.; Fernández-Serrano, M. ; Jurado, E.; Núnez-Olea; Rios, F., Acute toxicity of anionic and non-ionic
surfactance to aquatic organisms, in: Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, Vol. 125, March, 2016,
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S014765131530172X, last viewed: 2020-10-09.

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The production and use of FAE generates less CO2 and GHG emission compared to
surfactants derived from fossil fuels.501

FAE are biodegradable. The usual disposal way is through the sewage systems. Depending
on the chain length the time of biodegradation differs. Biodegradation is higher for FAE
with longer alkyl chains and higher degree of ethoxylation. Furthermore, the initial
concentration of the substances influences biodegradability. The greater the concentration,
the lower the biodegradability.502 FAE are highly metabolizable and therefore exhibit a low
potential to bioaccumulate in aquatic organisms. They can be aquatic toxic depending on
the type of ethoxylate.503

Market value

Fatty alcohol ethoxylates can replace other non-ionic surfactants of alkyphenol epoxylates
with nonylphenol epoxilates being the major example. Nonylphenol ethoxylates discharged
in wastewater after use are converted to nonylphenols as a consequence of biological
degradation. Nonylphenol has attracted attention due to its persistence in the aquatic
environments, its bioaccumulation and its potential role as an endocrine disruptor (disrupt
the natural balance of hormones in affected organisms).504 In Europe, due to environmental
concerns, the production and use of nonylphenol and nonylphenol ethoxylates is prohibited.
Alcohol ethoxylates are less problematic for the environment due to their ability to degrade
more quickly than nonylphenols, and more and more products have been substituted over
the years.505

Market size and price

The market share of FAE is high in Asia due to the growing industry such as textiles,
agriculture and paper in that region. It is expected to increase at a higher growth rate
compared to other regions such as North America, Europe, Latin America or Middle East
and Africa.506 Europe is a lucrative market by means of price and capacity next to Asia
Pacific. England, Italy, France and Germany control the demand in the European market.507
However the market is matured and limited growth is expected.508

501
Hayes DG, Smith GA. Chapter 1 - Biobased Surfactants: Overview and Industrial State of the Art [Internet]. Hayes
DG, Solaiman DKY, Ashby RDBT-BS (Second E, editors. AOCS Press; 2019 [cited 2020 Aug 7]. p. 3–38,
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780128127056000010.
502
Jurado, Encarnación ; Fernández-Serrano, Mercedes ; Rios, Francisco ; Lechuga, Manuela (2013) : Aerobic
Biodegradation of surfactants, in : Chamy, Rolando ; Rosenkranz, Francisca : Biodegradation – Life of Science,
Rijeka, source :
https://books.google.de/books?hl=en&lr=&id=rRKaDwAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PA63&dq=Fatty+alcohol+ethoxylate+(
FAE)&ots=jAsCw4B9fp&sig=qB9ps7rUzIojW6Cv-
3JyGzHgmZw#v=onepage&q=Fatty%20alcohol%20ethoxylate%20(FAE)&f=false, last view : 2020-10-09, p.64.
503
Bragin, Gail E.; Davis, Craig Warren; Kung, Ming H.; Kelley, Barbara A.; Sutherland, Cary A.; Lampi, Mark A.,
Biodegradation and Ecotoxicity of Branched Alcohol Ethoxylates. Application of the target lipid model and
implications for environmental classification, in: Journal Surfactants Deterg. 23 :383-403, 2020,
https://aocs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/jsde.12359, last view: 2020-10-09.
504
de Araujo, Frederico G.; Bauerfeldt, Glauco F.; Cid, Yara Peluso, Nonylphenol. Properties, legislation, toxicity and
determination, 2017, https://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0001-37652018000501903, last
viewed: 2020-10-09.
505
Soares, A. ; Guieysse, B. ; Jefferson, B. ; Carmell, E. ; Lester, J.N., Nonylphenol in the environment. A critical
review on occurrence, fate, toxicity and treatment in wastewater, in : Environment International, Vol. 34, Issue 7,
October, p. 1033-1049, 2008,
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412008000081?via%3Dihub, last viewed: 2020-10-09.
506
Kahidilkar, Nikhil, Fatty alcohol ethoxylates market sees moderate growth, 2019,
https://communalnews.com/fatty-alcohol-ethoxylates-market-sees-moderate-growth/, last viewed: 2020-10-09.
507
Million Insights, Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylates Market Insights, Forecast to 2025, 2017,
https://www.millioninsights.com/industry-reports/fatty-alcohol-ethoxylates-fae-market, last viewed: 2020-10-09.
508
Grand View Research, Alcohol Ethoxylates Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (Fatty Alcohol,
Lauryl Alcohol, Linear Alcohol), By Application (Emulsifier, Dispersing Agent, Wetting Agent), By End-use, And
Segment Forecasts, 2018 – 2025, 2017, https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/alcohol-
ethoxylate-market, last viewed: 2020-10-09.

213
The global ethoxylates market is expected to grow to reach USD 17.9 billion (around 15 €
billion) by 2027 with an estimated CAGR of 4% from 2020-2027.509 According to JRC the
European market accounts for 34.7% of the global market. The average price is estimated
to be 1.77 € and the EU-28 market for FAE estimated at 548 kta. The global market value
for fatty alcohol ethoxylates is 4,662 € million.510

Man-made bio-based fibres

Composition of product group

Fibres are classified in 2 groups; natural fibres and man-made fibres (MMF).

Natural fibres are fibres made by nature. Typical examples are cotton and wool, which are
mainly used in textile clothing but there are many often natural fibres produced in smaller
quantities such as e.g. silk, flax or hemp.

Man-made fibres (MMF) are fibres made by man. MMF can be organic or inorganic. Organic
MMF can be made from natural materials like wood, or are made from synthetic polymers.
This category is quite diverse, with traditional and novel bio-based fibres and with
dedicated and drop-in chemicals. JRC 2019 captured the diversity of the group by selecting
traditional bio-based fibres, such as rayon and cellulose acetate, together with a drop in
chemical (i.e. polytrimethylene terephthalate (PTT)) and two dedicated bio-based fibres
(i.e. polyamide-11 and polyamide-4,10). These five selected products cover the market
well and have very different chemical characteristics, being a polyester, a polysaccharide,
a polyether and two polyamides.511

Currently, considering the biorefinery approach, mostly bio-based man-made fibres are or
could be produced in biorefineries whereas natural fibres are mostly used in non-integrated
production. Man-made fibres account for 75% of all fibres produced worldwide, and for
circa 80% in Europe, including Turkey.512 513

Therefore, for this study we will also focus on bio-based man-made fibres.

509
Research and Markets (2020): Worldwide Ethoxylates Industry to 2027. Players featured include AkzoNobel, Akema
& BASF Among others, source: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/worldwide-ethoxylates-industry-to-
2027---players-featured-include-akzonobel-arkema--basf-among-others-301100166.html, last view: 2020-10-09.
510
Spekreijse, Jurjen; Lammens, Tijs; Parisi, Claudia; Ronzon, Tevecia; Vis, Martijn, Insights into the European market
for bio-based chemicals, Analysis based on 10 key product categories, JRC Science Policy Report, 2019,
https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/publication/insights-european-market-bio-based-chemicals, last view: 2020-12-03.
511
Spekreijse, Jurjen; Lammens, Tijs; Parisi, Claudia; Ronzon, Tevecia; Vis, Martijn, Insights into the European market
for bio-based chemicals, Analysis based on 10 key product categories, JRC Science Policy Report, 2019,
https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/publication/insights-european-market-bio-based-chemicals, last viewed: 2020-12-03.
512
European Man-Made Fibres Association, About Man-Made Fibres. https://www.cirfs.org/man-made-fibres/man-
made-fibres; last viewed: 2020-12-15.
513
European Man-Made Fibres Association, Renewable Raw Material.
https://www.cirfs.org/sustainability/sustainability-elements/renewable-raw-material; last viewed: 2020-12-15.

214
Man-made bio-based fibres

Basic market data for man-made bio-based fibres

Total EU production: 4,500 kta EU bio-based production: 600 kta

EU bio-based share of production: 13% EU bio-based consumption: 630 kta

Scenarios

High Low
Companies exploit marketing benefit of product Lack of health and/or environmental regulation
characteristics such as natural and/or biodegradable Consumers not willing to pay premium
Consumer awareness about micro plastic pollution Increased recycling results in less demand for
creates demand for non-toxic/less-toxic/biodegradable virgin materials/demand can in parts be covered
fibres (e.g. in textiles) through recycling
Consumer awareness about sustainability and health
issues in living environments (e.g. carpets)
Consumer awareness about need to reduce use of cotton
New environmental standards implemented will drive
demand for bio-based man-made fibres (e.g. on
degradation, migration of toxic substances, exposure to
substances harming health, VOCs).
Strong demand for innovative materials with new or
superior functionality (e.g. micro fibrillated cellulose
(MFC))

EU CAGR: 12% EU CAGR: 4%

EU Consumption in 2030: 1,890 kta EU Consumption in 2030: 945 kta

Case study: Micro fibrillated cellulose

A general driver for MFC is the demand for environmentally friendly products and
regulation aiming to reduce the use of fossil-based and hazardous chemicals. The use in
aviation and transport is also driving this market. The market is valued to grow with a
13.6% CAGR until 2026. The nanocellulose market, which is including MFC is expected
to grow even with 21% until 2026 and it is assumed that this trend will continue until
2030. MFC is a highly growing product, therefore CAGR are above the estimated CAGR
for the entire fibre product group.

Functionality and application area

Microfibrillated cellulose is produced by mechanical treatment with or without the use of

enzymes or chemicals for pre-treatment. It consists of long and thin fibres which form a
three-dimensional network with a large surface. The size of MFC varies (10-100 nm).514
Some fibres have diameters in nanoscale.515

Due to its web-like structure and large surface, MFC have very high water holding capacity
and can form strong gels at low concentrations used to control drying time of coatings,
concrete and stabilising water-based or wetting formulations. The long and thin structure
of the material make it high strength and useful to reinforce composites, films and barriers.
The material is not soluble in water, it is stable over the whole pH-range, at high salt
concentrations and temperature stable in a range of 20-90°C.516 Within packaging MFC can

514
Transparency Market Research, Micro-fibrillated Cellulose Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth,
Trends, and Forecast, 2020 – 2030, n.y., https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/micro-fibrillated-cellulose-
market.html, last viewed: 2020-10-16.
515
Karppinen, Anni, Microfibrillated cellulose, cellulose fibrils or nanocellulose?, Exilva Blog, 2018,
https://www.exilva.com/blog/microfibrillated-cellulose-or-nanocellulose, last viewed: 2020-10-16.
516
Karppinen, Anni, Temperature stability of cellulose fibrils, Exilva blog, 2018,
https://www.exilva.com/blog/temperature-stability-of-cellulose-

215
strengthen and lighten materials while keeping the same performance. Furthermore, it has
excellent oxygen and moister barrier properties and can be applied in films, coatings and
nanocomposites for packaging.517 518 Given these key functionalities MFC finds applications
across multiple sectors including pulp & paper, paint & coatings, adhesives, cement &
concrete, cosmetics, oil & gas, homecare and agro-chemicals.519 Pulp & paper is currently
the most extensive application. MFC fibres provide benefits in these industries due to
increased (wet and dry) tensile strength, less porosity, improved barrier properties,
preservation of food flavour or scent, higher printing quality, smoother surfaces, less
transparency and more. The packaging industry is expected to be one of the largest
application sector in the future.520

Sustainability

MFC can be derived from non-food and non-land use competing materials. Normally wood
or wood pulp is used as feedstock, however it can be extracted from plant-waste521 and be
also produced by bacteria522. MFC is biocompatible, meaning it is not harmful or toxic to
living tissue and usable in applications like surgical equipment or prosthesis. MFC is a safer
alternative to e.g. bisphenol A and phthalates.523 The material is safe for food contact.524

MFC has the potential to substitute plastics525 and aluminium in packaging materials, which
would reduce CO2 emissions (e.g. aluminium films carry as much as 50% of CO2 footprint
of their primary packaging material)526 Used in papermaking MFC can lead to a reduction
of fibres used while keeping the same performance which is estimated to reduce cost by
as high as USD 149 per tonne (134.31 €/t) and a fibre reduction of up to 20%.527

MFC is also biodegradable, offering an environmentally friendly option in e.g. the packaging
sector.528

fibrils#:~:text=Cellulose%20fibrils%20and%20cellulose%20in%20general%20are%20stable,fibrils%20in%20the
%20temperature%20range%20of%2020-90%20%C2%B0C., last viewed: 2020-10-19.
517
Jovic, Marija, Microfibrillated cellulose: A new material with high potential in the packaging industry, Prescouter
webpage, 2017, https://www.prescouter.com/2017/11/microfibrillated-cellulose-packaging/, last viewed: 2020-10-
16.
518
StoraEnso, Microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) – A natural performance enhancer for bio-based packaging materials,
n.y., https://www.storaenso.com/en/products/bio-based-materials/mfc-for-packaging, last viewed: 2020-10-16.
519
Future Bridge, Microfibrilliated cellulose (MFC). An emerging structural material, n.y.,
https://www.futurebridge.com/blog/microfibrillated-cellulose-mfc/, last viewed: 2020-10-16.
520
Fact.MR, Microfibrillated Cellulose (MFC) Fibre Market Forecast, Trend Analysis & Competition Tracking - Global
Market Insights 2020 to 2030, 2020, https://www.factmr.com/report/1710/microfibrillated-cellulose-fibre-market,
last viewed: 2020-10-19.
521
Curran, Curran® - A Microfibrillated Cellulose (MFC) Wonder Product?, n.y.,
https://www.cellucomp.com/blog/article/curran-a-microfibrillated-cellulose-mfc-wonder-product-1, last viewed:
2020-10-19.
522
Peneder, N., Not seeing the woods for the trees in the world of nanocellulose?, 2017,
https://weidmannfibretechnology.com/the-world-of-nanocellulose-how-not-to-lose-sight-of-the-wood-for-the-
trees/#:~:text=As, last viewed: 2020-10-19.
523
StoraEnso, Microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) – A natural performance enhancer for bio-based packaging materials,
n.y., https://www.storaenso.com/en/products/bio-based-materials/mfc-for-packaging, last viewed: 2020-10-16.
524
Ibidem.
525
Borhauer, Scott, Is Microfibrillated cellulose the future of barrier packaging?, 2016,
https://minipakr.com/blogs/news/is-microfibrillated-cellulose-the-future-of-barrier-packaging, last viewed: 2020-
10-16.
526
StoraEnso, Microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) – A natural performance enhancer for bio-based packaging materials,
n.y., https://www.storaenso.com/en/products/bio-based-materials/mfc-for-packaging, last viewed: 2020-10-16.
527
Zambrano, F., Starkey, H., Wang, Y., Abbati de Assis, C., Venditti, R., Pal, L., Jameel, H., Hubbe, M. A., Rojas, O.
J., and Gonzalez, R., Using micro- and nanofibrillated cellulose as a means to reduce weight of paper products. A
review, BioRes. 15(2), 4553-4590, 2020, https://bioresources.cnr.ncsu.edu/wp-
content/uploads/2020/03/BioRes_15_2_4553_Zambrano_SWAVPJHRG_Review_Micro_Nanofibrillated_Cellulose_Re
duce_Product_Weight_16324.pdf, last viewed: 2020-10-16.
528
StoraEnso, Microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) – A natural performance enhancer for bio-based packaging materials,
n.y., https://www.storaenso.com/en/products/bio-based-materials/mfc-for-packaging, last viewed: 2020-10-16.

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Market value

The growth of Microfibrilliated Cellulose is driven by the demand for more sustainable and
environmentally friendly products. MFC offers a way to replace fossil-sourced materials,
e.g. plastics, and consequently GHG emissions.529 Increasing regulation on the usage of
fossil based products and a rise in restrictions on the use of hazardous chemicals are
anticipated to increase the demand for MFC.530 Requirement for lowering emissions for
aviation/transportation vehicles would drive MFC application.531 One constrain for MFC is a
lack of standardisation to ensure consistent quality of the material.532

Market size and price

The global MFC market is valued to grow with a 13.6% CAGR between 2020-2026.533
Europe represents the biggest market and with the biggest grow for MFC.534 It is difficult
to find numbers for volumes of microfibrillated cellulose sold. Borregaard-owned Exilva
produces 1000 tpa (5.6) and Scotland-based CelluComp produce their Curran-product in
quantities of 500 tpa.535 The value of the Nanocellulose market, that includes micro
fibrillated cellulose, is estimated in 2019 to be 147 million USD (approximately 132 million
Euros). This is expected to increase with 21% CAGR to 418 million USD (approximately
376 million Euros) in 2026.536 Spinnova is an example for a company scaling up their
production of MFC-based fibres to industrial pilot scale. Spinnova is using a purely
mechanical process to refine pulp raw material into spinning-ready fibre. The company
claims to use 99% less water compared to cotton, and the process is free from harmful
chemicals and dissolving. CO2 emissions are supposed to be minimal.537

Bio-based polymers for plastics

Composition of product group

The JRC 2019 report states that packaging is the main application for bio-based plastics
and, therefore, the packaging market was used as a guide to covering a significant
proportion of the polymers for plastics category. Here, the products with the largest share
are PET, PE, PHA, PLA and starch used for plastics. It should be noted that specifically
‘starch used for plastics’ was chosen, and not ‘starch blends’, in order to choose a product
at the same point in the value chain as the other polymers. When looking at the numbers
about bio-based production and consumption, it has to be noted that these exclude bio-

529
Exilva, TODAY’S CHALLENGES, Exilva project, n.y., http://www.h2020-exilva.com/todays-challenges/, last viewed:
2020-10-19.
530
Transparency Market Research, Micro-fibrillated Cellulose Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth,
Trends, and Forecast, 2020 – 2030, n.y., https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/micro-fibrillated-cellulose-
market.html, last viewed: 2020-10-16.
531
Hjørnevik, M., The future of Aerospace, and its demand for new materials, Exilva Blog, 2017:
https://www.exilva.com/blog/the-future-of-aerospace-and-its-demand-for-new-materials, last viewed: 2020-10-
19.
532
Accesswire, Analyzing the Coronavirus Impact: Microfibrillated Cellulose (MFC) Fibre Manufacturers Find
Opportunities in Food Packaging Industry, 2020, https://www.accesswire.com/596085/Analyzing-the-Coronavirus-
Impact-Microfibrillated-Cellulose-MFC-Fibre-Manufacturers-Find-Opportunities-in-Food-Packaging-Industry, last
viewed: 2020-10-19.
533
Dataintelo, Global Microfibrillated Cellulose Market Analysis by Application (Performance Enhancer, Barrier Films),
End-Use (Paper, Packaging, Personal Care), Region and Segment, Forecasts 2020 ─ 2026, n.y.,
https://dataintelo.com/report/microfibrillated-cellulose-mfc-market/, last viewed: 2020-10-16.
534
Accesswire, Analyzing the Coronavirus Impact: Microfibrillated Cellulose (MFC) Fibre Manufacturers Find
Opportunities in Food Packaging Industry, 2020, https://www.accesswire.com/596085/Analyzing-the-Coronavirus-
Impact-Microfibrillated-Cellulose-MFC-Fibre-Manufacturers-Find-Opportunities-in-Food-Packaging-Industry, last
viewed: 2020-10-19.
535
COWI, Bio-Based World News, Ecologic Institute, Bio-Based Products from idea to market, Study for the European
Commission, 2019, http://news.bio-based.eu/media/2019/03/KI0718113ENN.en_.pdf, last viewed: 2020-09-21,
p.11.
536
Global Market Insights (2020): Nanocellulose Market Size by Product (Nano fibrillated Cellulose, Nanocrystalline
Cellulose), by Application (Composites, Paper Processing, Food & Beverages, Paints & Coatings, Oil & Gas, Personal
Care), Industry Analysis Report, Regional Outlook, Growth, source: https://www.gminsights.com/industry-
analysis/nanocellulose-market, last view: 2020-10-19.
537
Spinnova. n.y, https://spinnova.com; last viewed: 2021-01-27

217
based polyurethane even though it is an important product in the construction sector, in
consumer goods and in transport. The authors of JRC 2019 decided to exclude it and
include it under the category coatings as it is used in many applications there as well.538

Bio-based polymers for plastics

Basic market data for bio-based polymers for plastics

Total EU production: 60,791 kta EU bio-based production: 268 kta

EU bio-based share of production: 0.4% EU bio-based consumption: 247 kta

Scenarios

High Low

The packaging industry as a demand driving sector Higher price compared to petroleum-based
grows during the forecast period polymers is expected to hinder growth demand
Increasing applications of biodegradable plastics No EU level sector targets for GHG reduction in EU
Europe dominate the market across the world, with the chemicals production have been introduced until
largest consumption of bio-based plastics 2025
EU level sector targets for GHG reduction in EU chemicals Purchasing power stagnates
production have been introduced until 2025 No further health and/or environmental
Demand is reinforced strongly due to developing regions, regulations
like Asia-Pacific, South America, and the Middle East, Oil price stays low
improving (food) packaging standards in the near future Higher recycling rates reduces need for virgin
material
However, momentum of current developments
(use of bio-based plastics by big brands,
increasing consumer awareness) remains and
increases demands for bio-based polymers

EU CAGR: 15% EU CAGR: 7%

EU Consumption in 2030: 988 kta EU Consumption in 2030:494 kta

Case study: Thermoplastic starch

A lack of knowledge and communication about the environmental benefits of TPS is

constraining the market growth. However, if awareness raising and communication
campaigns succeed applications which require the functionalities such as biodegradability
and recyclability along with GHG savings provide market drivers. The CAGR is currently
predicted above 7%, which is in line with the low scenario for the entire product group.

Functionality and application area

Thermoplastic starch is made from starch. It is a biopolymer obtained from renewable plant
resources, such as maize, wheat, cassava, and potato harvests. Starch consists of two
component polymers, amylose (AM) and amylopectin (AP). When starch is mixed with
water or other plasticizer, like glycerol or sorbitol, and heated, the crystalline structure of
starch is disrupted. It forms bonds (hydrogen bonds) with the plasticizer and gelatinizes.
Shear force is often required for gelatinization, thus extruders or mixers are used to
homogenize and process the material for the suitable moulding application. Consequently,
the formed thermoplastic starch can be moulded at elevated temperatures.539

As such thermoplastic starch is a brittle material, but blended with other polymers, fillers
or fibres the properties can be improved. Thermoplastic starch can be blended with
polymers, like polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl alcohol and polylactic

538
Spekreijse, Jurjen; Lammens, Tijs; Parisi, Claudia; Ronzon, Tevecia; Vis, Martijn, Insights into the European market
for bio-based chemicals, Analysis based on 10 key product categories, JRC Science Policy Report, 2019,
https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/publication/insights-european-market-bio-based-chemicals, last viewed: 2020-12-03.
539
Shanks R, Kong I., Thermoplastic Starch. In: Thermoplastic Elastomers, 2012.

218
acid (PLA).540 Some of these polymers can be produced using biomaterials, however, PLA
is currently the only 100% bio-based polymer on the market. TPS is an attractive material
for sustainable packaging and films, especially for food packaging.

Bioplastics are used in an increasing number of markets, from packaging, catering

products, consumer electronics, automotive, agriculture/horticulture, and toys to textiles
and a number of other segments. Packaging remains the largest field of application for
bioplastics with more than 53 percent (1.14 million tonnes) of the total bioplastics market
in 2019. However, the portfolio of applications continues to diversify with segments, such
as automotive & transport or building & construction, significantly increasing their share.

Sustainability

TPS is made from starches, such as corn, wheat or potato. These are available materials
that, however, are also suitable for food production. According to a European Bioplastics
estimation, bioplastics feedstocks in total use less than 0.02% of the global agricultural
land. Despite the forecasted growth, this is still expected to stay around 0.02%.541

The processing of TPS is simple and since it is a bio-based material its environmental
performance in terms of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions is lower than fossil alternatives.
However, as TPS is often processed with other plastics to achieve the production material,
the environmental impact is highly dependent on the material the composite material is
made of.542 According to a Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) study of Broeren et al.543, some grades
of starch composites offer 85% of GHG reduction and others an increase of 80% on the
same weight-basis. Additives in the starch-based plastics are often necessary and they can
count for 40% of the emissions. Especially, when starch is sourced from wastes and is not
“virgin” material the environmental impacts are much lower. Especially, eutrophication and
land use impacts are then minimized. In summary, the drivers in this category are
biodegradability, compostability and recyclability along with GHG saving when starch is
sustainably sourced.

A barrier from environmental point of view is the lack of knowledge and communication of
environmental benefits of TPS containing products. With a standardized Life Cycle Analysis
one could offer comparable results of the environmental performance which helps to
understand the benefits of the products and dispel any misconception of bioplastics.

Market value

Several policies are in place to support bio-based plastics. EU legislation mandating

separate collection of bio-waste as of 1 Jan 2024 will enhance the use of biodegradable
and compostable plastics, such as TPS544. Some countries in Europe have banned the use
of non-compostable single use plastic bags, like France and Italy.545 These kinds of policies
will support bio-based product demand and usage and is likely to influence TPS uptake too.

540
Oever M van den, Molenveld K, Zee van der M, Bos H.,Bio-based and biodegradable plastics – Facts and Figures
[Internet]. 2017, https://www.wur.nl/upload_mm/1/e/7/01452551-06c5-4dc3-b278-173da53356bb_170421
Report Bio-based Plastic Facts.pdf, last viewed: 2020-12-18.
541
European Bioplastics, Facts and Figures Bioplastics, n.y., https://docs.european-
bioplastics.org/publications/EUBP_Facts_and_figures.pdf, last viewed: 2020-12-18.
542
Broeren MLM, Kuling L, Worrell E, Shen L., Environmental impact assessment of six starch plastics focusing on
wastewater-derived starch and additives, in: Resources, Conservation and Recycling [Internet]. 2017; 127:246–
55. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0921344917302793, last view: 2020-12-18.
543
Ibidem.
544
Favoino E, Giavini M., Bio-waste generation in the EU: Current capture levels and future potential [Internet]. 2020,
https://zerowasteeurope.eu/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/2020_07_06_bic_zwe_report_bio_waste.pdf, last
viewed: 2020-12-18.
545
News B-BW, COWI, Institute E, Innovation ECD-G for R and. Bio-based Products: From Idea to Market “15 EU
Success Stories”. [Internet]. Publications Office of the European Union; 2019.
https://books.google.nl/books?id=4XJeyQEACAAJ.

219
A barrier to bio-based product uptake is lack of a strong regulatory push from EU. With
regulations, such as quota of bio-based materials, it would be possible to ensure that bio-
based products are used in increasing amounts.

Usage of bio-based plastics is highly driven by the demand for sustainable, biodegradable
packaging by consumers and brand owners.546 According to European Bioplastics,
approximately 80% of the European consumers wish to buy products which have minimal
impact on the environment. This is a strong driver for TPS- based products as well.
Furthermore, TPS based films are transparent, colourless, tasteless, and odourless.
Therefore, they are highly suitable for packaging of goods that are sensitive to smells and
colours, such as food, offering a material that does not interfere with the product.

A barrier to the use of bioplastics is that consumer expectations and terminology of

bioplastics are not always clear.547 Wrong expectations can cause misunderstanding about
the nature of the products and this causes issues for acceptance of bioplastics. Therefore,
more education is needed with clear labelling of products to increase the awareness and
consequent market uptake. This requires both the industry and brands to work together.

Market size and price

The global thermoplastic starch market stood at 179 kt in 2019.548

The market for global thermoplastic starch is expected to register a CAGR of greater than
7% during the forecast period. The primary factors driving the growth of the market studied
are favourable government policies promoting bioplastics and increasing demand from the
packaging industries.549

Multiple technological constraints and exploitation of food sources as raw materials are
expected to hinder market growth.

Currently, Europe dominates the global thermoplastic starch market. However, over the
forecast period, Asia-Pacific is likely to take over as the global leader in the thermoplastic
starch market.550

Companies producing TPS are Novamont, Rodenburg Biopolymers, Biotec, Agrana Stärke
GmbH, Indochine Bio Plastiques (ICBP), Japan Corn Starch, Zhejiang Wafa, Ecota, SECOS
Group, Yantai Sunshine Aozhou, Jiangsu Longjun.

546
European Bioplastics. Frequently asked questions on bioplastics, Internet, 2020, https://docs.european-
bioplastics.org/publications/EUBP_FAQ_on_bioplastics.pdf, last viewed: 2020-12-18.
547
Ibidem.
548
Mordor Intelligence, Thermoplastic Starch (TPS) Market-Growth, Trends, Forecasts (2020-2025).
https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/global-thermoplastic-starch-market; last viewed 2020-12-
15.
549
Ibidem.
550
Aeschelmann, F., Baltus, W., Blum, H., Busch, R., Carrez, D., Carus, M., Dammer, L., Dommermuth, B., Eder, A.,
Essel, F., Ißbrücker, C., Käb, H., Lange, K., Liptow, C., Philp, J., Raschka, A., Ravenstijn, J., Pogrell, von P.,
Zepnik, S., Bio-based Building Blocks and Polymers in the World. Capacities, Production and Applications: Status
Quo and Trends towards 2020. nova-Institut GmbH, Hürth, Germany, 2015, p. 12.

220
Resins

Composition of product group

Resins are soft solid or highly viscous materials, usually containing prepolymers with
reactive groups. It is a wide group of synthetics that are used in composites, binders (for
plate materials), adhesives, inks, paints, and coatings. Bio-based resins can be “drop-in”
solutions that can replace the fossil counterparts, such as epoxy, acrylic and unsaturated
polyester resins. New building blocks from bio-based sources are epoxidized vegetable oils
for epoxy resins, lignin derived phenols for formaldehyde resins or polyols from sugars for
polyurethane resins.551

Bio-based resins
Basic market data for bio-based resins
Total EU production: 2,680 kta EU bio-based production: 237 kta
EU bio-based share of production: 9% EU bio-based consumption: 320 kta
Scenarios
High Low
The increase in Europe is driven by high demand Higher price compared to petroleum-based resins is
from packaging, electronics, consumer goods, expected to hinder growth
agriculture, construction/building sector, etc. No EU level sector targets for GHG reduction in EU
Demand for eco-friendly solutions is high. chemicals production have been introduced until 2025
Further regulation (health/environment) will Purchasing power stagnates
increase demand for bio-based resins Economic development in emerging economies does not
Increasing oil prices will support competitiveness allow to implement further health and/or environmental
Increasing purchasing power of consumers will regulations
help paying higher prices for consumer products Oil price stays low
Higher recycling rates reduces need for virgin material
EU CAGR: 17% EU CAGR: 4%
EU Consumption in 2030: 1,600 kta EU Consumption in 2030: 480 kta

Case study: Lignin based phenolic resins

Technical barriers related to the low reactivity and the additional energy need to modify
lignin hindering wider industrial application were LPR could substitute phenolic resins
with lignin hence increase sustainability of various applications. The phenolic resins
market is expected to grow by a CAGR of 5.5% until 2025. There are no specific CAGR
for Lignin based phenolic resins available. This number is within the lower part of the
high/low scenario for the resins product group.

Functionality and application area

Resins are typically viscose and convert into rigid polymers through a curing process. They
constitute a wide class of today mostly synthetic substances used in composites, binders,
adhesives, inks, paints and coatings. Well-known resins include polyester resins, epoxy
resins, phenol formaldehyde resins and polyurethane resins. Bio-based resins can
potentially substitute a large part of traditional building blocks with identical bio-based
drop-in resins. However, it is also possible to develop dedicated bio-based resins including
phenols from lignin used in phenol formaldehyde resins.552

Phenolic resins are thermosetting resins. They are strong, heat and impact resistant and
have a high tolerance to chemical corrosion and moisture penetration. They can be

551
Wageningen University and Research. Bio-based resins https://www.wur.nl/en/show/Biobased-resins.htm; last
viewed: 2020-12-15.
552
Wageningen University and Research, Bio-based resins, n.y., https://www.wur.nl/en/show/Biobased-resins.htm;
last viewed: 2020-11-11.

221
machined easily. This type of resin is used for resin impregnation, brake linings553, electrical
components, laminate, adhesives for cement, bonded adhesives and moulds.554 They are
used with fibreglass and carbon fibre enforcement and in combination with various fillers
and additives tailored to specific industry requirements, i.e. batteries, aerospace and
transportation industry.555 Products further include cookware and stove handles,
automotive ashtrays, motor brush holders and bottle caps.556

Sustainability

There are three main motivations to substitute the phenol and formaldehyde, which are to
move to more sustainable bio-based raw materials, to improve health and safety during
manufacturing and use and to enhance performance of the resin (i.e. mechanical properties
and higher thermal stability).557

Lignin is said to be one of the most abundant natural aromatic polymers in the world and
has exceptional capacity to substitute fossil-based phenol within the resin.558 However,
currently large amounts of lignin are incinerated.559 Substitution in phenolic resins is done
up to a level of 50% (also depending on the lignin type used) without hampering the
desired properties.560 Studies even show the possibility to increase this up to 100% for
some applications.561 562 Recently UPM has announced a 100% lignin-based phenolic resin
production on a commercial scale based on the WISA BioBond technology.563 564 WISA
BioBond is used in the adhesive used in the production of plywood. The lignin used is
obtained as by-product generated during a kraft pulping process.565

According to UPM their BioPiva based phenolic resins are designed for reduced
formaldehyde content and low formaldehyde emissions.566 Formaldehyde is an important
material for the chemical industry used in the production of glues and impregnating resins
for wood-based materials. The EU produces approximately 10 million tonnes per year (47

553
Sumitomo Bakelite Co., Phenolic Resins for Friction Materials, n.y.,
https://www.sumibe.co.jp/english/product/hpp/phenolic/brake/index.html, last viewed: 2020-11-11.
554
Thomasnet, Types of resins and their uses, n.y., https://www.thomasnet.com/articles/plastics-rubber/types-of-
resins/, last viewed: 2020-11-11.
555
Polymer Database, Phenolic resins (phenoplasts), 2013, https://polymerdatabase.com/polymer classes/Phenolic
type.html, last viewed: 2020-11-11.
556
Thomasnet, All about phenolic resins. Properties and uses, n.y., https://www.thomasnet.com/articles/plastics-
rubber/all-about-phenolic-resins/ , last viewed: 2020-11-11.
557
Sarika, P.R.; Nancarrow, Paul; Khansaheb, Abdulrahman; Ibrahim, Taleb, Bio-based alternatives to phenol and
formaldehyde for the production of resins, in MDPI Polymers, 12 2237, 2020, https://www.mdpi.com/2073-
4360/12/10/2237, last viewed: 2020-11-12.
558
Kalami, Somayyeh; Arefmanseh, Maryam; Master, Emma; Nejad, Mojgan, Replacing 100% of phenol in phenolic
adhesive formulations with lignin, in: Applied Polymer Science, Vol. 134, Issue 30; 2017,
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/app.45124, last viewed: 2020-11-12.
559
Prefere resins, Biopolymers put to industrial use at phenolic resin producer Prefere Resins, 2017,
https://prefere.com/en/company/news/biopolymers-put-to-industrial-use-at-phenolic-resin-producer-prefere-
resins, last viewed: 2020-11-12.
560
Ghorbani, Marmar; Liebner, Falk Wolfgang; van Herwijnen, Hendrikus Wihelmus Gerardus, Lignin phenol
formaldehyde resins. The impact of lignin type on adhesive properties, 2016,
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/304626018_Lignin_Phenol_Formaldehyde_Resins_The_Impact_of_Ligni
n_Type_on_Adhesive_Properties, last viewed: 2020-11-12.
561
Kalami, Somayyeh; Arefmanseh, Maryam; Master, Emma; Nejad, Mojgan, Replacing 100% of phenol in phenolic
adhesive formulations with lignin, in: Applied Polymer Science, Vol. 134, Issue 30; 2017,
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/app.45124, last viewed: 2020-11-12.
562
Sarika, P.R.; Nancarrow, Paul; Khansaheb, Abdulrahman; Ibrahim, Taleb, Bio-based alternatives to phenol and
formaldehyde for the production of resins, in MDPI Polymers, 12 2237, 2020, https://www.mdpi.com/2073-
4360/12/10/2237, last viewed: 2020-11-12.
563
Fabbri, Paola; Viaggi, Davide; Cavani, Fabrizio; Bertin, Lorenzo; Michetti, Melania; Carnevale, Erika, Velasquez
Ochoa, Juliana; Martinez, Gonzalo Agustin; Degli Piret, Esposti Micaela; Fischer, Kukk; Wydra, Sven; Schwarz,
Alexander; Marscheider-Weidemann, Frank, 2018.
564
Hübsch, Christian; Markessini, Charles, Lignin based resins. Recent developments, presentation, UPM, Chimar,
2017, https://donar.messe.de/exhibitor/ligna/2017/D148872/lignin-based-resins-eng-498610.pdf, last viewed:
2020-11-11.
565
WISA Plywood, WISA Bond, 2020, https://www.wisaplywood.com/campaigns/wisa-biobond, last viewed: 2020-11-
11.
566
UPM Biochemicals, Resin industry solutions, n.y., https://www.upmbiochemicals.com/products/lignin/resin-industry-
solutions/, last viewed: 2020-11-11.

222
million tpa are produced globally).567 Formaldehyde is made of methanol and phenol.
Fluctuation in price of phenol as a result of changes in oil price and concerns about exposing
workers during manufacturing let to intensive investigations on how to replace phenol with
bio-based alternatives.568 According to the European Chemical Agency both phenol and
formaldehyde are mutagenic, carcinogenic and reprotoxic. Besides the increased safety
requirements during manufacturing, residual formaldehyde can remain in phenolic
formaldehyde resin products, leading to long-term, low-level exposure to end-users.569

Using lignin as replacement for phenolic resins helps to reduce the environmental impact
of the final product. It is estimated that every tonne of lignin substituted in phenolic resins
production prevents the generation of a tonne of CO2.570 The CO2 footprint of lignin is
approximately 20% of phenol.571 However the lower reactivity and additional energy and
costs required to modify the lignin to increase its reactivity constitute a barrier for its wider
industrial application.572

Market value

Since phenolic formaldehyde resins are used in glues in wood-based applications, coatings,
mouldings and insulation materials, they are coming under increasing restrictions through
environmental legislation since they are not biodegradable. Therefore lignin-based
alternatives are becoming more attractive for resin producers and end-users.573
Environmental benefits are seen as crucial sales argument among consumers, especially
with wood-based products where fossil-based adhesives hamper the green image.574

Market size and price

6 million ton per year of phenolic resins are produced on global level, with a price range
between 1100 t/USD – 2300 t/USD, depending on the purity, quality and application of the
final material.575 Main actors include UPM-biofore (Finland), StoraEnso (Finland), VTT
(Finland), Prefere Resins (Germany), Avalon Industries (Switzerland), WestFraser
(Canada) and Hexion (USA). The phenolic resins market is expected to grow by a CAGR of
5.5% until 2025.576 There are no specific CAGR for Lignin based phenolic resins available.

567
European Coatings, Formaldehyde-free adhesive for industrial use in the wood-processing industry, 2017,
https://www.european-coatings.com/Raw-materials-technologies/Raw-materials/Formaldehyde-free-adhesive-for-
industrial-use-in-the-wood-processing-industry, last viewed: 2020-11-11.
568
Kalami, Somayyeh; Arefmanseh, Maryam; Master, Emma; Nejad, Mojgan, Replacing 100% of phenol in phenolic
adhesive formulations with lignin, in: Applied Polymer Science, Vol. 134, Issue 30; 2017,
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/app.45124, last viewed: 2020-11-12.
569
Sarika, P.R.; Nancarrow, Paul; Khansaheb, Abdulrahman; Ibrahim, Taleb, Bio-based alternatives to phenol and
formaldehyde for the production of resins, in MDPI Polymers, 12 2237, 2020, https://www.mdpi.com/2073-
4360/12/10/2237, last viewed: 2020-11-12.
570
Fabbri, Paola; Viaggi, Davide; Cavani, Fabrizio; Bertin, Lorenzo; Michetti, Melania; Carnevale, Erika, Velasquez
Ochoa, Juliana; Martinez, Gonzalo Agustin; Degli Piret, Esposti Micaela; Fischer, Kukk; Wydra, Sven; Schwarz,
Alexander; Marscheider-Weidemann, Frank, 2018.
571
Chemistry Views, Lignin instead of phenol formaldehyde resins, 2017,
https://www.chemistryviews.org/details/news/10468312/Lignin_Instead_of_Phenol_Formaldehyde_Resins.html,
last viewed: 2020-11-12.
572
Sarika, P.R.; Nancarrow, Paul; Khansaheb, Abdulrahman; Ibrahim, Taleb, Bio-based alternatives to phenol and
formaldehyde for the production of resins, in MDPI Polymers, 12 2237, 2020, https://www.mdpi.com/2073-
4360/12/10/2237, last viewed: 2020-11-12.
573
Borregaard, Resin extension, n.y., https://lignotech.com/Industrial-Applications/Resin-extension, last view: 2020-
11-12.
574
Storaenso, Developing a lignin-based resin for plywood, 2020,
https://www.storaenso.com/en/newsroom/news/2020/6/developing-a-lignin-based-resin-for-plywood, last viewed:
2020-11-12.
575
Fabbri, Paola; Viaggi, Davide; Cavani, Fabrizio; Bertin, Lorenzo; Michetti, Melania; Carnevale, Erika, Velasquez
Ochoa, Juliana; Martinez, Gonzalo Agustin; Degli Piret, Esposti Micaela; Fischer, Kukk; Wydra, Sven; Schwarz,
Alexander; Marscheider-Weidemann, Frank, 2018.
576
Grand View Research, Phenolic Resins Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (Novolac, Resol), By
Application (Wood Adhesives, Molding, Insulation, Laminates, Paper Impregnation, Coatings), And Segment
Forecasts, 2019 – 2025, 2019, https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/phenolic-resins-market, last
viewed: 2020-12-02.

223
Additives: bio-based plasticisers

Composition of product group:

The JRC 2019 report does not look at the whole product group additives but focuses on
bio-derived plasticisers and stabilisers. Plasticizers account for a major share of the plastic
additives market (51.7% in 2014) 577 as they are extensively used to process polymers and
are less expensive than other additives.

For the scenarios developed in the frame of this study, we consider that plasticisers are
the main drivers of the product category additives and will focus on their development for
practical reasons. Important bio-based plasticisers are: Epoxidized vegetable oils such as
soybean oil (ESBO), linseed oil (ELO), Castor oil, Palm oil, but also succinic acid and azelaic
acid.

Other additives are also used in plastic applications and as additives for other applications.
We assume they will be underlying similar trends.

The numbers for EU-bio-based production and consumption are based on the numbers
given by the JRC 2019 report.578

Bio-based plasticisers

Basic market data for bio-based plasticisers

Total EU production: 1300 kta EU bio-based production: 67 kta

EU bio-based share of production: 9% EU bio-based consumption: 117 kta

Scenarios

High Low

The high replacement potential of bio-based plasticisers Slow recovery from COVID-19 crisis
to replace traditional counterparts will be exploited (EU Plastic markets not growing
bio-based share being 9% in 2019) Oil prices remain low
Further regulation (health/environment) in (emerging) No further regulations (health/environment) are
economies will increase demand for bio-based introduced
plasticisers. Recycling rates increase
Increasing consumer awareness will increase demand for Purchasing power declining/not increasing making
bio-based plasticisers it difficult for consumers to pay green premium
Performance of bio-based plasticisers will increasing even in case awareness increases.
rapidly. Performance of e.g. ESBO, azelaic acid and
succinic acid is already competitive
Pricing of GHGs (e.g. tax) will help competitiveness.
High crude oil prices will support competitiveness
Increasing purchasing power of consumers will help
paying higher prices for consumer products

EU CAGR: 11% EU CAGR: 4%

EU Consumption in 2030: 351 kta EU Consumption in 2030:175 kta

5.5 Potential supply

5.5.1 POTENTIAL SUPPLY INTRODUCTION

The focus of this study is chemical, and material driven biorefineries which include the
production of innovative high value bio-based products. These innovative products are

577
Grand View Research, https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/plastic-additives-market ; last
viewed: 2020-12-15.
578
Spekreijse, Jurjen; Lammens, Tijs; Parisi, Claudia; Ronzon, Tevecia; Vis, Martijn, Insights into the European market
for bio-based chemicals, Analysis based on 10 key product categories, JRC Science Policy Report, 2019,
https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/publication/insights-european-market-bio-based-chemicals, last viewed: 2020-12-03.

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largely expected to be produced from biorefinery pathways that are yet to reach
widespread commercial maturity (novel pathways). This supply ramp-up therefore focuses
on the potential deployment of these novel pathways in the EU until 2030. Mature
biorefinery pathways are also covered in this section, but at a higher level than the novel
pathways. The potential locations of biorefinery deployment in the EU are then identified
based on resource potential and existing industrial activity.

New or expanded chemical and material driven biorefineries are not the only supply source
for bio-based chemicals and materials, co-processing in fossil-based production facilities
(petroleum refineries and chemical production plants) and re-focusing of fuel-based
biorefineries to the chemicals and materials markets are also potential sources. These are
explored in the alternative bio-based chemicals and materials ramp-up routes section, but
at a higher level than the novel pathways.

Further, one of the major overarching drivers for biorefineries is to reduce the dependence
on non-renewable fossil feedstocks for the production of chemicals, materials, food and
fuels. In the context of chemicals and materials, this can also be achieved through bio-
based content (as described in this study), recycled fossil material (e.g. plastic waste
recycling) or through CO2-based chemicals. The latter two are not the focus of this tender
study but are discussed in WP 3 and 6.

5.5.2 CHEMICALS AND MATERIALS DRIVEN BIOREFINERIES RAMP-UP

The potential supply of chemicals and materials from EU biorefineries will be determined
by assessing the bottom-up supply ramp-up of the biorefinery pathways previously
identified. This means the model assesses the potential growth in bio-based chemicals and
materials but does not include potential closures existing biorefineries and assumes that
all existing biorefineries continue to operate at similar rates.

This has been developed in a supply ramp-up model under two growth scenarios: the high
scenario and the low scenario, both aligned with the macro-economic and policy
assumptions described previously. These will define the bounds of what is possible by 2030
for biorefinery deployment in the EU. The output presents the incremental increase in
production capacity of bio-based chemicals and materials by year to demonstrate the
progressive ramp-up EU biorefinery capacity between 2020 and 2030. The capacity will be
analysed by individual pathway, as defined in WP 3, to identify those with the biggest
ramp-up potential for the considered timeline.

Following the output of the ramp-up model, WP 6 develops one outlook for deployment of
biorefineries to 2030 that sits between the low and high scenarios. We then define the
actions that stakeholders should take to overcome barriers so that the biorefinery
deployment is more likely to reach this outlook.

Database integration and analysis

The biorefinery database developed as part of WP 4 of this tender study serves as basis
for the supply ramp-up model. This means that the current biorefinery deployment is used
as baseline to determine the potential growth within the next 10 years. The database
aggregates a wide range of information such as the location, feedstocks, products,
production capacity of existing or new announced plants, as well as operational year. The
outcome of the model is only based on biorefinery information publicly available at the
time this WP was conducted. Availability of data may present a limitation to our modelling
approach. More information on the database including the level of completion of this
information can be found in WP 4.

The final outcomes of the supply model will be discussed in terms of ramp-up potential by
year, by pathway and by biorefinery type (i.e. demonstration or commercial). The
information provided in the database (WP 4) acts as input data for the ramp-up supply

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model. It only includes biorefineries focused on producing bio-based chemicals and
materials.

In a first step, two key criteria have been added to the entries of the database in order to
categorise the data collected in WP 4:

• Biorefinery pathway - The ramp-up model aims to provide deployment outlooks

for all biorefinery pathways addressed. For this, a systematic approach was used to
match all entries in the database with a specific biorefinery pathway (A-K as shown
in Table 41), according feedstock, process, conversion platform and products (see
Table 15 in WP 3 for more details). In some cases, biorefineries operate only parts
of the pathway, referred to as a process variant. If so, the entry is matched with
the pathway it shares most properties with. For example, pathway E is a three-
platform pathway, relying on C5/C6 sugars and lignin. Some biorefineries may be
classified as pathway E, although they only produce products through the lignin
platform and not through the C5/C6 sugars.

• Plant type - a ‘plant type’ identifier was added to every entry in the database
(Table 42). The plant type is linked to the technical maturity of the pathway
(commercial or demonstration) and status (operational, announced, closed) and
consequently affects the capacity contribution of the pathway to the overall
biorefinery deployment.

Table 41. Biorefinery Pathways

Biorefinery pathway name

L. One platform (C6 sugars) biorefinery using sugar crops

M. One platform (starch) biorefinery using starch crops

N. One platform (oil) biorefinery using oil crops, wastesa and residues

O. Two-platform (pulp and spent liquor) biorefinery using wood

P. Three platform (C5 sugars, C6 sugars and lignin) biorefinery using lignocellulosic biomassc

Q. Two-platform (organic fibres and organic juice) biorefinery using green biomassb

R. Two-platform (oil and biogas) biorefinery using aquatic biomass

S. Two-platform (organic fibres and oil) biorefinery using natural fibresb

T. One platform (syngas) biorefinery using lignocellulosic biomassc and municipal solid waste

U. Two platform (pyrolytic liquid and biochar) biorefinery using lignocellulosic biomass

V. One platform (bio-crude) biorefinery using lignocellulosic, aquatic biomass, organic residues

a. Waste/residue fats, oils and greases belong to category "Other organic residues"
b. Green biomass and Natural fibres belong to category "Lignocellulosic from croplands and grasslands“
c. Lignocellulosic biomass includes Lignocellulosic from croplands, wood/forestry and residues from agriculture
and forestry

All biorefineries considered in this model are located in the EU either at commercial or
demonstration scale, and for each the distinction between operational, closed and
announced is made (Table 42). Only demonstration scale and larger biorefineries
(i.e. TRL 8-9) are expected to have an impact on the biorefinery deployment
levels / supply ramp-up by 2030. This means that new demonstration biorefineries for
low TRL pathways which have yet to be announced but could potentially start-up before
2030 are not considered in the ramp up model. This assumption was validated by
stakeholders in the October stakeholder workshop part 2. Lower TRL pathways and

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activities are covered in WP 3 and actions to enhance RD&I efforts on these are included
in the roadmaps.

Table 42. Description of biorefinery types with criteria applied to determine the output capacity used in the ramp-up model.

Plant type Description

Operational Current active commercial biorefineries.

Demonstration Commercial

Closed Closed commercial biorefineries that are not considered in the model.

Announced Publicly announced commercial biorefinery projects.

Operational Current operational demonstration biorefineries which could be scaled up to “New

Commercial” biorefineries.
Closed Unsuccessful demonstration projects are closed down and not considered further.

Announced Publicly announced demonstration biorefinery projects.

Closed plants refer to large scale commercial biorefineries which have announced closure
or stopped operating (i.e. mothballed). These biorefineries are excluded from further
analysis and do not appear in the ramp-up outputs. Yet, they are not deleted from the
database as some could potentially be restarted or retrofitted in the future.

Demonstration and commercial biorefineries are classified as operational if they are

currently active, but assumptions for future developments differ.

The amount of biochemicals and/or biomaterials produced from existing commercial

biorefineries is expected increase between now and 2030. A debottlenecking / expansion
factor is applied to the current estimated commercial production to account for the increase
in future industrial production. This factor accounts for the expansion of operational
biorefineries in reaction to growing demand of their products. It also considers process
optimisation aspects, such as increased storage infrastructure or the utilisation of side
streams, currently used for other uses than chemicals and materials (e.g. energy).

Existing demonstration scale biorefineries have a limited operational lifetime and are
expected to be closed once RD&I activities are complete. While the shutdown is likely to
be permanent, successful demonstration biorefineries could lead to the development of
commercial scale plants. These scaled up plants are referred to as “New Commercial”
biorefineries in the ramp-up model. A multiplication factor is applied to the current
production capacity of the demonstration biorefineries to account for increased production
potential. For biorefineries where the production capacity is unknown a proxy value is used
to estimate the deployment potential579. A development timeline is used as benchmark to
estimate how long it will take for existing demonstration biorefineries to be to be
commercialised. It should be noted that pathways with lower technical maturity (TRL below
7) are not expected to reach commercial scale by 2030. Hence, the conversion process of
demonstration to commercial plants does not apply to emerging pathways with lower TRLs
(G, K).

Finally, announced plants denote planned biorefinery projects which have been publicly
announced. The year of start-up announced by the project developers is used to forecast
the start-up date, or a project development timeline is used to forecast the number of
years required for an announced plant to become operational. The method used depends
on the scenario – see following sub-section.

579
For demonstration biorefineries the capacity is estimated based on other demonstration biorefineries of the same
pathway and/or platform.

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This overall project timeline (Figure 70) usually considers different stages such as planning,
construction, commissioning before operation of the biorefinery can start. It is only after
successful commissioning and start-up of a biorefinery that another project using a similar
conversion process, and involving the same project partners, is expected to be developed.
Major elements of a project development timeline for a dedicated plant are shown below
for a first commercial scale plant below (Figure 70).

Figure 70. Example project development timeline for a first commercial-scale plant.

The projects considered in the database can be at different stages (construction,

commissioning, etc) of the development timeline. The current status of the development
process is acknowledged to estimate the remaining years until the operational start-up of
the biorefinery.

Growth scenarios for the supply ramp-up

Two growth scenarios set the upper and lower bound of the biorefinery outlook deployment
between 2020 and 2030. The assumptions applied in the high and low growth scenarios,
as outlined below, were validated with stakeholders during the October workshop part 2
(Table 43).

Different sources were used to determine the current European supply potential including
the data published in the JRC 2019 report on “Insights into the European market for bio-
based chemicals”, the Nova Institute study on European Bioeconomy, and the Roadmap
for the Chemical Industry in Europe towards a Bioeconomy published in 2019580,581,582. This
means that the total “commercial operational” production is estimated for the European
market as opposed to the capacity by specific pathway. This total current EU production is
used as an indicator of the total current capacity. In reality the capacity will be higher than
production however the operating rates of the existing biorefineries are not in the public
domain and therefore the actual capacity cannot be estimated. Similarly, debottlenecking
and expansion factors are applied to the overall EU biorefinery supply potential.

580
Joint Research Centre (JRC) European Commission, Insights into the European market for bio-based chemicals,
Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union (2019) available at:
https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/publication/insights-european-market-bio-based-chemicals
581
RoadToBio project consortium, Roadmap for the Chemical Industry in Europe towards a Bioeconomy,
(2019) available at: https://www.roadtobio.eu/uploads/publications/roadmap/RoadToBio_action_plan.pdf
582
RoadToBio project consortium, Roadmap for the Chemical Industry in Europe towards a Bioeconomy,
(2019) available at: https://www.roadtobio.eu/uploads/publications/roadmap/RoadToBio_action_plan.pdf

228
 Table 43. Summary of modelling approach followed for high and low scenario.

PLANT TYPE RAMP-UP MODEL ASSUMPTIONS

Basis High Growth Scenario Low Growth Scenario

Commercial Top-down approach to Commercial deployment Commercial deployment

Operational estimate the total estimated by applying a 10% estimated by applying a
operational production for debottlenecking factor to the 2.5% debottlenecking
bio-based chemicals from yearly production capacity factor to the yearly
EU biorefineries583. and assuming 50% of operational capacity.
advanced biofuels produced
from biorefineries in the EU
will supply biochemicals by
2030584.

Commercial Expected start-up year as Add 1-year delay due to Apply the project
Announced announced by project COVID 19 pandemic to development timeline with
(obtained from the announced start-up years. regards to current
database). development stage and add
1-year delay due to COVID
19 pandemic.

New commercial Current operational Demonstration biorefineries 50% of demonstration

demonstration biorefineries are scaled up to commercial plants are scaled up to
are expected to be plants within 5.5 years from commercial biorefineries
commercialised. 2021. within 8 years from 2021.

Demonstration Production capacity Account for capacity until the Account for capacity until
Operational obtained from the start-up year of new the start-up year of new
database. commercial biorefineries. commercial biorefineries.

Demonstration Expected start-up year as Add 1-year delay due to Apply the project
Announced announced by project COVID 19 pandemic to development timeline and
developer (obtained from publicised start-up year. add 1 year delay due to
the database). COVID 19 pandemic.

High growth scenario:

The high growth case forecasts biorefinery deployment assuming the maximum technical
potential the in the EU in 2030. This scenario assumes that all planned projects and
developments go ahead, and the deployment is only constrained by technology readiness.
Where technology is not mature enough, i.e. below TRL8 it is not expected to be possible
to reach commercial scale by 2030.

A series of macroeconomic factors are considered to ensure the assumptions made in the
demand section of this WP align with the supply ramp-up (Table 37). Favourable economic
conditions are expected to speed up the development of new projects. Newly announced
biorefineries (at demonstration and commercial scale) are assumed to become operational
at the developer’s publicised year. That information is sourced from the biorefinery
database developed in WP 4. Similarly, the existing commercial capacity is expected to
benefit from the favourable macroeconomic climate. A debottlenecking factor of 10% is
applied to account for process improvements, increased product demand and expansion of
existing utilities.

The current context of the COVID 19 pandemic causes major uncertainties in terms of
investment in new biorefinery projects. Stakeholders confirmed in the October stakeholder
workshop part 2 that the development of most new projects has been put on hold. For this
reason, a one-year delay is applied for all announced projects in the high scenario.

583
Joint Research Centre (JRC) European Commission, Insights into the European market for bio-based chemicals,
Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union (2019) available at:
https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/publication/insights-european-market-bio-based-chemicals
584
A share of advanced biofuels supplying the chemicals market of 50% is assumed in most cases. This assumption is
revised and adapted depending on the pathway used. See the analysis of individual pathways for further
information.

229
However, depending on the forthcoming Recovery and Resilience Plans from the Member
States, the prioritisation of biorefinery investments may also speed up some investment
decisions on biorefineries as they have a strong potential to boost regional growth, jobs
and new economic activities. The potential closure of already operational biorefineries is
not considered, only potential delay of new announced projects is taken into account for
the supply ramp up model.

New commercial capacity by pathway is estimated by factoring in the scale up of

operational demonstration biorefineries to commercial refineries. In the high scenario,
favourable techno-economic and technology maturity progress are considered. Hence,
demonstration plants are assumed to scale up in 5.5 years. A factor of 10 is applied to
account for the increase in biochemical and biomaterial supply (i.e. a commercial plant is
10x the scale of a demonstration plant)585. In practice the scaling factor between a
demonstration and commercial plant can vary depending on many factors including the
processes employed, feedstock availability, market demand.

In the EU growing interest is observed for pathways relying on secondary feedstocks (non-
crop). These have applications in several industries including the chemicals, materials, and
fuels sectors. For example, pathway E generates ethanol from lignocellulosic crops. While
this product can be a building block for the chemical industry (e.g. to produce ethylene
and its derivatives, directly as a solvent, to produce acetic acid etc..), it is widely used as
transportation fuel currently. Given this link between the chemical and fuel industries, the
high scenario assumes that a share of the production capacity of European advanced
biofuel biorefineries contributes to the operational bio-based chemicals and materials
supply ramp up. A separate database developed internally at E4tech was used to forecast
the potential additional supply from advanced biofuels biorefineries586. This database is not
limited in scope and contains any planned and existing projects which qualify for “advanced
biofuels” as defined in RED II annex IX.

Depending on the pathway analysed (D, E, I, J), this factor can significantly increase the
overall bio-based chemicals and materials supply capacity. Additional supply potential is
only considered for pathways where the product can be directly used as fuel or as platform
chemical, such as ethanol, methanol, or fractionation of pyrolysis oil (D, E, I, J). However,
pathways which require an additional upgrading step of the product are not included in the
ramp-up analysis (e.g. co-processing of bio-crude from pathway K in a crude oil refinery
to produce fuels, chemical feedstocks and chemicals).

In terms of capacity attributed to demonstration or new commercial plants, advanced

biofuel biorefineries are treated like biochemical focused biorefineries. New policy is
expected to be needed to encourage biorefineries to supply the chemicals and materials
markets, as well as the fuels market. The time to set up such a policy is approximated at
five years. Hence, under the high scenario, additional capacity from the advanced biofuels
is only considered from 2025587 onwards. More details on actions related to policy are
provided in WP 6.

The use of novel pathways is more mature for applications in the fuels sector compared to
the chemicals and materials market. Some developers have already announced or already
operate first commercial and even second commercial plants for these pathways. For this
reason, demonstration biorefineries outside of the EU are also considered in the ramp-up
model as it is assumed that developers’ first and second commercial scale biorefineries will
be based in the EU.

585
Biofuels international, 6(9), pp. 44-46, Scaling up step by step (2012) Available at: https://www.zeton.com/wp-
content/uploads/2019/10/Zeton_Scaling_Up.pdf.
586
The data of existing advanced biofuel biorefineries in the EU is sourced from a database developed internally at
E4tech. It includes all pathways to biofuels that do not use crop-based feedstocks.
587
This year is adapted to the pathway analysed.

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Low growth scenario:

The low scenario sets the lower boundary of the potential growth of biorefinery production
by 2030. The gap between the deployment obtained in the high and the low scenarios
depends on a set of barriers and drivers which all impact the success of projects to varying
extents. This growth scenario considers limited action by stakeholders (including no new
policy e.g. under the direction of the Green Deal) to overcome the identified barriers to
deployment. These barriers were identified and developed in WP 2 and 3, and then have
been summarised and further developed by pathway in WP 6.

The possibility of new biorefineries being announced in the next few years, and which could
be operational by 2030, needs to be considered as well. Similar to the high scenario, this
potential increase in capacity supply is considered by applying an expansion factor to the
existing operational production. Yet, poor macroeconomic conditions are expected to limit
the impact of debottlenecking / expansions. For this reason, the low scenario assumes only
a quarter of the expansion potential applied to the high scenario.

Since the study proposal was written in 2019, an economic crisis as a result of the COVID
19 pandemic has developed as well as volatile and lower oil prices. Stakeholders noted
these as important factors when considering the ability to finance new and currently
planned projects. Hence, for announced biorefinery projects a more conservative
development timeline is applied. Overall, the time from initial project announcement to
operational plant start-up is expected to take 9 years including 1-year delay to account for
uncertainties caused by the COVID 19 pandemic. The timeline is adapted on a case-by-
case basis depending on the project’s current development stage. A similar approach is
used for announced demonstration projects, with a total of 7 years (including 1-year delay
due to the pandemic) until operational start-up of a new demonstration plant once
announced. Whilst the high growth scenario assumes that all demonstration plants scale
up to commercial scale and all announced projects go ahead with some delay, the low
scenario considers a failure rate (Table 43).

Poor technoeconomic conditions affect the rate of success of demonstration projects. As a

result, the number of successful demonstration projects scaled up to commercial
biorefineries (i.e. new commercial plants) is assumed to be only half of those considered
in the high growth scenario. Additionally, poor macro-economic conditions extend the
development timeline by 2.5 years and delay the start of the scale up process.

Outlook to 2030

The focus of this study is on novel biorefinery pathways as opposed to mature and
established pathways. However, it is important to note that currently commercial
biorefineries may contribute significantly to bio-based chemicals and materials supply
increases through debottlenecking / expansion.

Figure 71 shows the current distribution of EU biorefineries in terms of number of

commercial operational biorefineries by pathway. Pathways A, B, C and D largely rely on
more mature technologies than other pathways and represent most of today’s operational
capacity. Most of the production increases from debottlenecking/expansion is expected to
come from these existing facilities. Although this approach is valid for mature pathways,
the particularities of specific industries need to be observed. Pathway D, for example,
depends on trends observed in the forest-based sector. For several years now, this sector
has been innovating and diversifying their product portfolio by processing pulp & paper mill
side streams into bio-based chemicals and materials.

231
 Figure 71. Current number of bio-based chemicals and materials operational commercial refineries by pathway in the EU.

The priority put on the deployment of secondary feedstocks for the production of bio-based
chemicals and materials favours innovation for pathways D-K. This also explains the small
number of demonstration plants for pathways A-C which rely on crop-based feedstocks
(Figure 72). Yet, some operational demonstration projects have been identified in the
database. These investigate processes which differ from conventional procedures and are
therefore considered to be novel. Aligned with the trends observed in the forest-based
sector, more demonstration biorefineries have been identified for pathway D compared to
pathways A-C. Further details are given in the outlook by pathway section.

Figure 72. Current number of operational bio-based chemicals and materials focused demonstration refineries by pathway in
the EU.588

Lower TRL pathways (F, I, J) are currently at research stage and are therefore likely to
contribute to the ramp-up of demonstration biorefineries in the EU for both the high and
low growth scenarios (shown as ‘Demonstration’ in Figure 73 and Figure 74).

The ramp up model only considers biorefinery pathways which could reach commercials
scale by 2030, this means pathways currently at TRL 8 or above. For this reason,
deployment potential from pathways currently at pilot scale (G and K) does not contribute
to the ramp up of biorefineries in the EU by 2030. This is valid for both additional capacity
at demonstration and commercial scale.

While pathways I and J are at low TRL, they share properties with advanced biofuels.
Hence, after the establishment of a policy framework as assumed under the high scenario,
parts of the capacity of advanced biofuels produced could be used to produce bio-based
chemicals and materials (referred to as ‘Adv. Biofuels to chemicals’ in Figure 73).

As introduced in the assumptions, additional capacity from advanced biofuels only

contributes to the overall ramp up from 2025 onwards. This is due to the assumption that

588
These numbers are based on today’s operational demonstration bio-based chemicals and materials refineries in the
EU. Pathways C, I, J and K are not included as no demonstration biorefineries were identified in the database.

232
a specific policy framework supporting this this developed prior to the contribution of
advanced biofuels to the bio-based chemicals and materials market. The significant
increase in ramp up from ‘Adv. Biofuels to chemicals’ observed in 2027 can be explained
by the assumptions made regarding the scale up of demonstration plants (Table 43).
Existing demonstration biorefineries are expected to become operational at commercial
scale (i.e. new commercial plants) by 2027. Given the applied scale up factor of 10x (Table
43) this results in the additional deployment observed in Figure 73.

Figure 73. Overall ramp-up by biorefinery type, high growth scenario

Emerging pathways with successful demonstration scale projects (TRL 7+) are assumed to
benefit from techno-economic progress and macroeconomic conditions and therefore to
reach commercial maturity by 2030. A higher rate of deployment is expected for pathways
E, D and H. In both scenarios, they contribute significantly to the capacity of New
Commercial biorefineries (i.e. demonstration plants scaling to commercial scale).

Announced biorefineries will contribute to the overall capacity, but only towards the end of
the decade.

Figure 74. Overall ramp-up by biorefinery type, Low growth scenario.

The output of the high growth scenario results in a progressive ramp-up impacted by
announced commercial and demonstration biorefineries, expansion of existing commercial
plants, the emergence of new commercial plants in 2027 and additional capacity from
advanced biofuel biorefineries for non-crop pathways from 2025.

The low growth scenario takes a more conservative approach to simulate the overall ramp
up. New demonstration biorefineries, debottlenecking of announced commercial

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biorefineries, new commercial plants and announced commercial plants all contribute to
an increase in supply capacity. The most significant increase is observed from 2028
onwards, when announced commercial biorefineries are expected to become operational.
Figure 75 displays the overall ramp-up of EU biorefinery capacity by 2030 and allows to
compare the high to the low scenario.

Figure 75. Overall EU bio-based chemicals and materials focused refinery ramp up, high and low scenario.

Outlook of novel biorefineries by pathway

This section describes the ramp-up by pathway focusing on novel routes, rather than an
increase in existing capacity through debottlenecking/expansion. This means that for the
commercial and mature routes A-C there the ramp-up potential described is rather limited.
This does not mean that these pathways will not see expansion, but this has been captured
in the debottlenecking/expansion category for all pathways described above. The next
section describes the expected supply ramp up coming from Announced commercial or
demonstration biorefineries or from “New Commercial” biorefineries only.

The ramp-up model focuses on supply potential by pathway as opposed to a specific

product, since biorefineries tend to develop a range of products. However, specific
biorefineries producing the case study products, introduced in the previous sections (WP
2,3 and above in the demand section of this WP), are highlighted where appropriate.

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Pathway A - One platform (C6 sugars) biorefinery using sugar crops

Figure 76. Overview Pathway A - One platform (C6 sugars) biorefinery using sugar crops

Pathway A relies on sugar crops as feedstocks such as sugarcane and sugar beet. During
primary refining sucrose (C6 sugars) is produced from pathway A. This biorefinery pathway
is technically mature and widely practiced at commercial scale primarily to produce
bioethanol for fuel applications (Figure 76). These existing biorefineries in the EU could
refocus to sell ethanol into chemicals applications and this is explored further in the
alternative bio-based chemicals and materials ramp-up routes section.

Bioethanol and downstream derivatives such as bioethylene and other bioplastics are
commercially produced from pathway A, but currently not widely in the EU. As seen in the
previous section (Figure 71), pathway A is already widely established in today’s biorefinery
landscape, especially in Western and Central Europe. For this reason, pathway A presents
limited capacity for increase of novel biorefineries even under high scenario terms.

235
 Table 44. European demonstration biorefineries using pathway A.

Project name/ Type Scale (tpa) Feedstock Products Start-up

company year

Wacker Chemie AG Demonstration 500 Straw, sugar- Acetic acid 2009

based biomass

Braskem & Haldor Demonstration 100 C6 sugars Monoethylene 2019

Topsøe 589 glycol (MEG)

The limited ramp-up potential of this pathway is emphasised by the small number of
demonstration projects contained in the database. Although the conventional conversion
process applied in this type of biorefineries is commercially mature, some innovative
activity is observed in the EU. For example, Wacker Chemie AG started an acetic acid
demonstration biorefinery near Munich in Germany in 2009 (Table 44).

Also, the strategic partnership between Braskem and Haldor Topsøe has led to the start-
up of a sugar-to-biochemicals demonstration plant in Denmark590. The biorefinery produces
monoethylene glycol (MEG), an intermediate used to produce polyethylene terephthalate
(PET), from sugar since March 2019 and thereby demonstrates the potential diversification
of products from pathway A.

The favourable macroeconomic conditions assumed under in the high scenario mean that
the announced commercial biorefineries will become operational 5 years earlier compared
to the low scenario. For example, Avantium is constructing a commercial plant in Delfzijl
(NL). The company aims to produce furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) which can be further
processed into Polyethylene-furanoate (PEF), a 100% bio-based polyester591. In the low
scenario a more conservative timeline is applied, and the start-up is delayed by 5 years.
IBN-One, a subsidiary of Cristal Union and Global Bioenergies, aims to become the first
commercial plant producing iso-butene from sugar592. L’Oréal is collaborating on the
project by testing batches ultimately destined to the cosmetics market593.

Total and Corbion have recently announced a new poly lactic acid (PLA) bioplastics plant594.
The Total Corbion PLA joint venture is not a biorefinery but only focuses on the downstream
processing of biochemicals (i.e. lactic acid). Lactic acid is already produced at commercial
scale with for example Ireland based Cellulac and Corbion operating several biorefineries
in the EU. Yet, this initiative could encourage further development of biorefineries
producing lactic acid from sugars.

589
Svend Ravn, Braskem and Haldor Topsoe start up demo unit for developing renewable MEG (2019) Available
at: https://blog.topsoe.com/braskem-and-haldor-topsoe-start-up-demo-unit-for-developing-renewable-meg.
590
Braskem, Braskem and Haldor Topsoe achieve first production of bio-based MEG from sugar (2020) Available
at: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/braskem-and-haldor-topsoe-achieve-first-production-of-bio-
based-meg-from-sugar-301178199.html.
591
Lubben M., Deep Dive Renewable Polymers: Path to Flagship Plant, Amsterdam: Avantium (2019), Available at:
https://www.avantium.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/AVT_Technology-Day_RNP_final.pdf
592
Global Bioenergies, Global Bioenergies: IBN-One awards front-end engineering design to Technip and IPSB for the
first plant converting renewable resources into isobutene (2016) Available at: https://www.global-
bioenergies.com/global-bioenergies-ibn-one-awards-front-end-engineering-design-to-technip-and-ipsb-for-the-
first-plant-converting-renewable-resources-into-isobutene/?lang=en.
593
Global Bioenergies, Global Bioenergies, IBN-One, Cristal Union and L’Oréal launch a new bioeconomy project
(2016) Available at: https://ilbioeconomista.com/2016/06/07/global-bioenergies-ibn-one-cristal-union-and-loreal-
launch-a-project-focused-on-the-first-bio-isobutene-plant/.
594
Page Bailey, Mary, Corbion And Total To Build First World-Scale Pla Plant In Europe (2020) Available
at: https://www.chemengonline.com/corbion-and-total-to-build-first-world-scale-pla-plant-in-europe/.

236
 Figure 77. Total incremental ramp-up for pathway A, showing additional capacity but excluding potential ramp-up of existing
commercial biorefineries.

The ramp-up is expected to be mostly driven by debottlenecking / expansion of existing

commercial biorefineries, as discussed in the overall outlook section. Development projects
focusing on the utilisation of residues from the sugar industry present also a strong ramp
up potential. Figure 77 demonstrates additional capacity originating from the start-up of
the new announced commercial plant and the scale up of existing demonstration
biorefineries for the high scenario. In the low scenario, the scale up of successful
demonstration projects and the start-up of announced commercial biorefineries will take
place at a later date. The additional capacity (Figure 77) is expected to come from
chemicals such as lactic acid rather than from conventional bioethanol produced from sugar
crops.

Figure 78. Deployment results for pathway A by number of biorefineries.

Figure 79 summarises the additional number of biorefineries expected by 2030 in both the
high and low growth scenarios. The number of additional plants expected for pathway A
by 2030 is relatively small but goes in line with the maturity level of the process and hence
the limited innovative activity.

237
Pathway B – One platform (starch) biorefinery using starch crops

Figure 79. Overview Pathway B - One platform (starch) biorefinery using starch crops.

Pathway B shares a lot of similarities with pathway A in terms of technology and

deployment (i.e. commercial biorefineries to produce bioethanol for fuel are widespread).
This biorefinery pathway is also mature and widely used at commercial scale. It uses starch
crops such as cereals (e.g. corn and wheat) and potatoes as feedstock to extract starch
during primary refining (Figure 79). Bioethanol and lactic acid are key products of this
pathway and is used as chemical intermediate for further processing into other derivative
products. Several commercial biorefineries are operational in Western and Central Europe.

Similar to pathway A, limited research activity is observed for pathway B. The database
identified only one demonstration plant relying on starch crops as feedstock to produce a
range of products, including PLA produced from case study product lactic acid595.
Thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions AG596 has been operating a demonstration plant in Leuna
(Germany) since 2013 (Table 2).

595
ThyssenKrupp, ThyssenKrupp investing in industrial biotechnology (2013) Available
at: https://www.thyssenkrupp.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/thyssenkrupp-investing-in-industrial-
biotechnology-3218.html.
596
ThyssenKrupp, ThyssenKrupp investing in industrial biotechnology (2013) Available
at: https://www.thyssenkrupp.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/thyssenkrupp-investing-in-industrial-
biotechnology-3218.html.

238
 Table 45. European demonstration biorefineries using pathway B.

Project name/ Type Scale Feedstock Products Start-up

company (tpa) year

ThyssenKrupp Demonstration 1000 Corn, sorghum PLA, succinic acid, 2013

Industrial Solutions polybutylene
AG succinate (PBS),
platform chemicals

No announced commercial biorefineries have been identified for the timeline and
geography considered. Hence, the majority of biorefinery deployment for pathway B is
expected to originate from debottlenecking / expansion of existing commercial plants.
Under the conditions of the high scenario, an additional capacity of 10kta is expected in
2030 from the commercialisation of the demonstration plant. For the low scenario, an
additional capacity of 5kta is estimated from the scale up of the demonstration plant.

Pathway C – One platform (oil) biorefinery using oil crops

Figure 80. Overview of pathway C - One platform (oil) biorefinery using oil crops.

239
The feedstocks used in this pathway are oil crops from oil seeds, from fruits, or from waste
fats, oils and greases (Figure 80). During secondary refining the oil is converted into a
range of products including fatty acid methyl esters (FAME, biodiesel), glycerol, lubricants,
cosmetics, surfactants and dyes.

While pathway C is commercially mature, some specific production routes require further
research and development. For example, fatty alcohol ethoxylates and PEG esters are
widely produced and consumed but these are only partially bio-based, made from
vegetable oils and fossil ethylene oxide. While Croda has developed a 100% bio-based
production of surfactants from fatty alcohol ethoxylates in the US597, no such initiatives
have been identified in the EU.

In terms of operational biorefineries, the database contains only commercial plants for
pathway C, with most of the activity happening in France and Germany. Only one
announced commercial biorefinery has been identified. In 2016, METabolic EXplorer
(METEX)598 announced a new commercial project in Carling St Avold in France. The
biorefinery will produce bulk chemical PDO (1,3-Propanediol) and derivative polymer PTT
(Polytrimethylene Terephthalate).

Given the maturity level of pathway C and the limited innovation taking place in terms of
oil crops, the deployment of this pathway will be influenced by the debottlenecking of
existing commercial biorefineries as well as the start-up of the announced commercial
biorefinery. Both scenarios are expected to achieve the same additional supply capacity,
6kta from the METEX biorefinery, with shifted timelines.

Pathway D – Two-platform (pulp and spent liquor) biorefinery using wood

As described in WP 3, pathway D mostly relies on the existing pulping processes. For this
reason, all innovations are directly linked to the ongoing activity of upgrading pulping
biorefineries to more efficient biorefineries with a wider product portfolio. The scope of the
ramp up model is restricted to innovative bio-based chemicals and materials, this excludes
traditional pulp and paper products including their derivatives. Yet, announced projects
currently focused on traditional pulp products could, in the future, present opportunities
and feedstock potential for bio-based chemicals and materials. This could be through the
extraction and further conversion of crude tall oil, lignin and turpentine from black liquor599
and/or through the development of innovative cellulose products. If these biorefineries
decide to switch their focus, it could represent a considerable increase in supply capacity
for the chemicals and materials sector. Figure 71 presents a snapshot of today’s European
biorefinery activity in the chemicals sector. Pathway D is widely established with a high
number of operational commercial biorefineries, particularly in Scandinavian countries.
Woody biomass residues, either wood chips residues from sawmills or thinning residues
from forest management activities are used as feedstock. The pulp or spent liquor obtained
after primary reforming can be converted into a wide range of end products including micro
fibrillated cellulose, acetic acid and lignin.

597
To produce surfactants, fatty alcohols are widely ethoxylated (i.e. reacted with ethylene oxide).
598
Metabolic Explorer, METabolic EXplorer and Technip sign agreement to evaluate combined PDO/PTT technology
(2016) Available at: https://www.metabolic-explorer.com/wp-
content/uploads/2017/01/PR_METEX_Technip_evaluation_PDO_PTT_23.08.2016.pdf.
599
The main by-product obtained from the Kraft pulping process is black liquor which is traditionally has been used for
heat and power purposes. However, energy efficiency of the existing kraft mills has improved so more of this black
liquor could be used for chemicals and materials production without a requirement for net import of energy to the
process. Chemicals (turpentine, crude tall oil, lignin) can be recovered from the black liquor and allow to produce a
large variety of bio-based materials and chemicals such as paints and adhesives. In addition to increase the
potential supply of bio-based chemicals and materials, this process provides major resource efficiency gains for the
pulp-paper industry.

240
Although pathway D is already at commercial scale (TRL 9), innovative activity, driven by
the diversification of the pulp & paper industries, is observed in these types of biorefineries.
For this reason, the deployment outlook is influenced by a range of factors.

The database notes 8 demonstration projects using forest residues in the EU. This includes
6 announced projects and two operational plants (Table 46). BBI JU project Ecohelix600 has
received funding under a H2020 grant agreement to construct a demonstration plant in
Örnsköldsvik, Sweden. The demonstration plant aims to value the side streams of pulp mill
processes by establishing 9 novel value chains for polymers, chemical building blocks and
compostable polyesters601. Another example includes the MI Demo project established
through the Metsä Spring and Itochu Corporation joint venture. This demonstration scale
biorefinery is operational in Äänekoski, Finland since 2020602. The biorefinery applies an
innovative production process to convert Metsä Group’s paper-grade pulp into textile
fibres603.Finnish fibre producer, Spinnova, has been operating a new pilot scale facility in
Jyväskylä, Finland. In this process, the pulp undergoes a mechanical treatment to produce
micro fibrillated cellulose (MFC). Further details about the process used in the pilot scale
biorefinery are provided in WP 3.

Figure 81. Overview of pathway D – Two-platform (pulp and spent liquor) biorefinery using wood (Kraft)

600
Vehicle Project, Available at: https://vehicle-project.com/.
601
Vehicle, Available at: https://vehicle-project.com/the-project.
602
Mestä Srping (2020) Available at: https://metsaspring.com/production-started-at-unique-textile-fibre-demo-plant/
603
Mestä Srping (2020) Available at: https://metsaspring.com/production-started-at-unique-textile-fibre-demo-plant/

241
 Table 46. European demonstration biorefineries using pathway D.

Project name/ Type Scale Feedstock Products Start-up year

company (tpa)

RTWH Aacehn604 Demonstration 10000 Lignocellulosic Chemical building 2020

wood forestry blocks

Ecohelix605 Demonstration NA Lignocellulosic polymers, chemical 2021

wood forestry building blocks and
compostable
polyesters

Rotternos606 Demonstration NA Lignocellulosic cellulose-based 2020

wood forestry packaging solutions,
polymer blends

LignDemoRISE607 Demonstration NA Lignocellulosic lignin 2006

wood forestry

MI Demo – Metsä Demonstration 500 Lignocellulosic Textile fibres 2020

Spring and ITOCHU wood forestry
Corporation608
Chempolis Ltd. Demonstration 5000 Lignocellulosic building blocks, fuels 2008
wood forestry

RenCom609 Demonstration 1000 Lignocellulosic Chemicals, bio-based 2022

wood forestry plastics

Domsjö Fabriker AB, Demonstration na polymers na

Ecohelix AB610

Due to the significant commercial capacity already established for pathway D,

demonstration biorefineries are not expected to significantly impact the overall supply
potential. The announced demonstration plants will not have a significant impact on the
ramp-up for both scenarios. Yet, the ongoing activity observed at demonstration scale
suggests strong supply ramp up opportunities for the future. Existing operational
demonstration biorefineries are expected to scale up to commercial scale under both
scenarios. This increase in capacity significantly contributes to the deployment of pathway
D by 2030 for both growth scenarios (Figure 82).

604
Green Solres, Available at: https://greensolres.eu/.
605
Vehicle, Available at: https://vehicle-project.com/the-project.
606
Plastemart, Cellulose-based plastics address need for more sustainable raw materials from food, healthcare,
coatings and construction, Available at: http://www.plastemart.com/plastic-technical-articles/cellulose-based-
plastics-address-need-for-more-sustainable-raw-materials-from-food-healthcare-coatings-and-
construction/2356#:~:text=Cellulose%20plastics%20are%20manufactured%20using,or%20heated%20in%20a%
20digester.
607
Gustavsson R., Development of lignin products, Available at: https://www.ri.se/en/test-demo/lignocity.
608
Mestä Srping (2020) Available at: https://metsaspring.com/production-started-at-unique-textile-fibre-demo-plant/
609
RenCom, 14 MSEK to produce forest based materials that will replace fossil-based plastics (2020) Available at:
https://www.lignin.se/news/press1
610
Matthis S., Domsjö Fabriker to start demo scale plant for production of hemicellulose copolymers (2019) Available
at: https://www.pulpapernews.com/20191205/10977/domsjo-fabriker-start-demo-scale-plant-production-
hemicellulose-copolymers

242
 Figure 82. Total incremental ramp-up for pathway D, showing additional capacity but excluding potential ramp-up of existing
commercial biorefineries.

Three announced commercial projects were identified in the database for the 2030
timescale. Metsä Group has announced a new commercial plant at the firms’ current mill
site in Kemi 611. The company will use softwood and hardwood pulp to produce a range of
bioproducts. Another example includes Boreal Bioref’s announced commercial project in
Kemijärvi, Finland. The commercial biorefinery will source feedstock from local sawmills to
produce a range of bio-based chemicals and products including microcrystalline cellulose
(MCC)612. Under both scenarios, the production capacity of the announced commercial
biorefineries contributes to the overall pathway deployment by 2030. Other announced
activity is observed in the forest-based industry such as KaiCell’s planned new biorefinery
in Paltamo, Finland. It is understood that this biorefinery will initially focuses on the
production of traditional pulp and paper products, not covered by the scope of this study,
but investments such as these do offer the potential for valorisation of side streams in the
future to produce the bio-based chemicals and materials covered in this study. The
biorefineries covered above and others that are currently focused on more traditional pulp
derivatives are detailed in the Confederation of European Paper Industries “Innovative bio-
based products for a sustainable future: A Cepi study on pulp & paper industry biorefineries
in Europe”613

Contrary to all three pathways presented previously, there is a strong link between
advanced biofuel conversion processes from non-crop feedstocks, and bio-based chemicals
and materials produced from pathway D. The pulping process generates a waste gas
stream (steam stripper off-gas) from which methanol can be recovered. Methanol is
platform chemical widely used for gasoline blending, to produce formaldehyde, acetic acid,
solvents and many other chemicals614. The majority of conventional fossil methanol (75%)
is sold into the chemicals market, this presents a potential opportunity for bio-based
chemicals and materials focused biorefineries. Given the established market and versatile

611
Metsa Fibre, Investments for future growth , Available
at: https://www.metsafibre.com/en/projects/Pages/default.aspx.
612
Boreal Bioref granted environmental permit the biorefinery (2019), Available at:
https://www.lesprom.com/en/news/Boreal_Bioref_granted_environmental_permit_the_biorefinery_89835/
613
CEPI, Innovative bio-based products for a sustainable future: A Cepi study on pulp & paper industry biorefineries in
Europe (2021) https://www.cepi.org/innovative-bio-based-products-for-a-sustainable-future-a-cepi-study-on-pulp-
paper-industry-biorefineries-in-europe/
614
Argus Media Media Ltd, Argus Global Methanol Demand 2018 (2019) Available at: https://www.argusmedia.com/-
/media/Files/brochures-and-downloads/global-methanol-demand-2018-flow-
chart.ashx?la=en&hash=090F0C06A6A396546B3698F913E6A1AC54DEAE8E.

243
use of methanol as chemical building block, the high scenario assumes that 50% of
advanced biofuel volumes produced in 2030 could be sold as chemical.

Often the waste stream of pathway D is used to produce bioenergy. Bioprocess company
AustroCel Hallein615, for example, produces textile pulp from forest residues and converts
the side stream, methanol, into bioenergy. Swedish company Södra established a
commercial value chain producing biomethanol from wood chips616. Growing activity to
diversify the products processed using principles of the pulp & paper industries, suggest
ramp-up potential for pathway D.

Figure 83. Deployment results for pathway D by number of biorefineries.

Pathway D presents many opportunities for growth of the pulp industry. In both the high
and the low scenario, the deployment is driven by the capacity of new commercial,
demonstration and announced commercial biorefineries (Figure 83). The high scenario also
accounts for additional capacity from advanced biofuel processes.

615
OMV Group, First delivery: AustroCel Hallein supplies OMV with advanced bioethanol (2020) Available at:
https://biorrefineria.blogspot.com/2020/12/AustroCel-and-OMV-start-cooperation-on-2G-ethanol.html
616
Södra, Refuelling the future, Available at: https://www.sodra.com/en/global/Bioproducts/biomethanol/.

244
Pathway E - Three platform (C5 sugars, C6 sugars and lignin) biorefinery using
lignocellulosic biomass

Figure 84. Overview of pathway E - Three platform (C5 sugars, C6 sugars and lignin) biorefinery using lignocellulosic biomass.

Pathway E is an emerging pathway where lignocellulosic biomass is broken down into C5

& C6 sugars and lignin to produce a large portfolio of bio-based products including chemical
building blocks, fibres and polymers (Figure 84). Lignocellulosic ethanol one of the key
products obtained from the fermentation of C5/C6 sugars. It is a versatile chemical which
has already benefitted from RD&I activities in several other industries such as the fuel
sector. Besides ethanol, pathway E is used to produce a wide range of bio-based chemicals
and materials including microfibrillated cellulose, acetic acid (via ethanol) and lignin.

245
The different process variants applicable to pathway E are presented in Figure 84. Some
biorefineries may choose to perform only one specific process variant as opposed to a fully
integrated biorefinery. Yet as long as parts of the flow of operation corresponds to the
process (or one of the process variants) defined in pathway E, the biorefinery is attributed
the label of this pathway.

Existing commercial biorefineries for pathway E make up 10% of the total operational
capacity of biochemical focused biorefineries in the EU in 2020. However, pathway E is still
considered as emerging pathway (TRL 8) and due to its applications, it presents significant
deployment potential.

Figure 85 shows the overall incremental supply ramp-up of pathway E for the period of
2020 to 2030. The deployment of this pathway is influenced by many elements.

Figure 85. Total incremental ramp-up for pathway E, showing additional capacity but excluding potential ramp-up of existing
commercial biorefineries.

Currently, the commercial applications in the chemical market are centred around two main
areas, Western Europe and Scandinavia. As an emerging pathway, continued development
at this scale is necessary to allow the pathway to reach a higher maturity level. The
database contains a series of demonstration projects either planned or already operational.
Under both scenarios, current demonstration biorefineries are expected to contribute to
the new commercial capacity at the end of the decade. Details about the biorefineries are
provided in the table below (Table 47). Norske Skog is currently developing a
demonstration plant in Golbey France under a BBI JU agreement617. The biorefinery
explores a new integrated value chain of “wood-to-food” to produce sustainable feed for
aquaculture from forest biomass618. Additional research projects at lab or pilot scale are
mentioned in WP 3.

617
Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking, SYLFEED (2020) Available at: https://www.bbi-europe.eu/projects/sylfeed.
618
Sylfeed, Arbiom led consortium receives €10.9M funding from the Bio-Based Industries Joint Undertaking (BBI-JU)
to demonstrate the production of sustainable feed for aquaculture from forestry material (2017) Available
at: http://sylfeed.eu/2017/09/25/442/.

246
The growing commercial capacity for pathway E is demonstrated through announced
commercial projects in the EU. For example, Afterbiochem, funded by Bio Based Industries
Joint Undertaking (BBI JU), aims to develop a chemical platform to process the by-products
of the chemical industry into a range of bio-based chemicals and materials619. Similarly,
the AgriChemWhey project (also funded by Bio Based Industries Joint Undertaking (BBI
JU)) aims to scale up the existing demonstration biorefinery to commercial scale. Start-up
is planned for 2022 with an annual output of 25kta to produce a range of biochemicals
including acetic acid, polylactic acid, minerals for human nutrition and bio-based
fertilisers620.

UPM has announced a new demonstration plant the industrial chemical site in Leuna,
Saxony-Anhalt in Germany621. The biorefinery will produce several chemical building blocks
and additives including 220,000 tonnes of glycols622. In this process the hydrolysis of
hemicellulose and cellulose allows to produce sugars which are directly converted to glycols
(mono ethylene glycol and mono-propylene glycol). While this biorefinery was classified
under pathway E, it is located at the same sites as biorefineries following conversion
processes from pathway D623.

Table 47. European demonstration biorefineries using pathway E.

Project name/ Type Scale Feedstock Products Start-

company (tpa) up year

LPX Group Demonstration 500 Lignocellulosic Cellulose, lignin, 2009

biogas

Global Bioenergies Demonstration 100 Wheat Straw624 Isobutene 2017

(BBI JU)

Norske Skog Demonstration 5475 Lignocellulosic wood/ Polymers, food 2021

Gobley forestry

Chempolis Ltd. Demonstration 5000 Lignocellulosic crops, Chemicals, liquid 2008

forestry residues biofuels, composites
and fibres

Sweetwood Demonstration 26,280 Hardwood biomass Wood derived 2020

Graanul Biotech chemicals (sugars
and lignin)

AgriChemWhey625 Demonstration 75 Excess whey lactic acid, polylactic 2018

permeate (WP) and acid, minerals for
delactosed whey human nutrition and
permeate (DLP) bio-based fertilisers

The primary conversion of lignocellulosic biomass into C5/C6 sugars has already received
a lot of interest to produce bioethanol as transportation fuel. For example, global speciality
chemical company Clariant announced the development of a lignocellulosic ethanol biofuel

619
Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking, Afterbiochem (2020) Available at: https://www.bbi-
europe.eu/projects/afterbiochem.
620
European Commission CORDIS, An integrated biorefinery for the conversion of dairy side streams to high value bio-
based chemicals (2020) Available at: https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/744310.
621
UPM, The construction of UPM’s innovative biochemicals facility starts in Germany (2020) Available
at: https://www.upm.com/about-us/for-media/releases/2020/10/the-construction-of-upms-innovative-
biochemicals-facility-starts-in-germany
623
The nature of the process performed was confirmed during the stakeholder interview with UPM as part of the work
performed in WP3.
624
Global Bioenergies, First production of isobutene from wheat straw at demo scale (2017) Available
at: https://www.global-bioenergies.com/first-production-of-isobutene-from-wheat-straw-at-demo-scale/?lang=en.
625
This project is receiving funding under the Bio Based Industries Joint Undertaking (BBI JU) under the EU Horizon
2020 research and innovation programme, https://www.agrichemwhey.com/about/

247
refinery in Romania626. The strong technical link between both industries explains why
some chemical companies may choose to develop projects based on pathway E but supply
into the transportation initially as there is policy support to do so. The establishment of a
policy allowing promoting the use of bioethanol for chemicals as well as fuels could
considerably contribute to the overall ramp-up of the pathway. The speed this could be
achieved would also be related to the downstream processing of ethanol for chemicals627.
For example, if ethylene (building block for many other chemicals and materials) was
produced, ethanol dehydration biorefineries would need to be build. Or alternatively
ethanol could be used directly to produce other chemicals such as acetic acid if facilities to
do so were developed.

Figure 86. Deployment results for pathway E by number of biorefineries.

As seen on Figure 86, the deployment outlook for pathway E is influenced by several
factors. Announced demonstration plants have a limited impact on the overall supply
potential. Yet exiting demonstration biorefineries will scale up to commercial plants before
2030 and thereby contribute to the total ramp up. Announced commercial biorefineries add
the same capacity independent of the scenario analysed, the only difference lies in the
shifted timeline.

Finally, pathway E is already utilised to produce bioethanol for fuels. A share of advanced
biofuels capacity could add significant deployment potential to the bio-based chemicals and
materials production. A 50% share of the bioethanol produced could be used to produce
biochemicals. About 1.8 tonnes of ethanol is required per tonne of ethylene produced.628
Ethylene is the largest building block chemical globally and installed capacity to produce
ethylene from steam crackers (the largest conventional source of fossil ethylene) in the EU
is ~23 million tonnes.629 Therefore if all this ethanol assumed here was used to produce
ethylene it would produce ~1.4 million tonnes of ethylene by 2030 (~6% of current
capacity in the EU). The ethanol could also be used for other chemical applications including
solvents such as ethyl acetate (already commercially produced), or drop-in bio-based
products not currently produced in the EU such as acetic acid etc..

626
Clariant, Clariant to build flagship Sunliquid® cellulosic ethanol plant in Romania, Available
at: https://www.clariant.com/en/Corporate/News/2017/10/Clariant-to-build-flagship-sunliquid-cellulosic-ethanol-
plant-in-Romania.
627
Robert A. Dagle, Austin D. Winkelman, Karthikeyan K. Ramasamy, Vanessa Lebarbier Dagle, and Robert S. Weber,
Ethanol as a Renewable Building Block for Fuels and Chemicals, American Chemical Society, 59(11), pp. 4843–
4853 (2020) Available at: https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.iecr.9b05729.
628
Denise Fan, Der-Jong Dai and Ho-Shing Wu, Ethylene Formation by Catalytic Dehydration of Ethanol with Industrial
Considerations, Materials (2013) 6, 101-115; doi:10.3390/ma6010101
629
Petrochemicals Europe, Cracker capacity (2019) Available at: https://www.petrochemistry.eu/about-
petrochemistry/petrochemicals-facts-and-figures/cracker-capacity/.

248
Pathway F – Two-platform (organic fibres and organic juice) biorefinery using
green biomass

Figure 87. Overview of pathway F - Two-platform (organic fibres and organic juice) biorefinery using green biomass.

Pathway F is an emerging pathway, with operational demonstration plants and some

operational commercial biorefineries. The main feedstocks used are nature-wet biomass
such as grass (Figure 80 ). After primary refining organic fibres are obtained, these can be
further processed into materials, such as boards, composites, insultation material and fibre
reinforced polymers. They can also be used as fermentation raw material to produce
biofuels and chemicals following pre-treatment and hydrolysis.

Organic juice is the second product obtained after primary refining. It can be further
processed into lactic acid, proteins, and amino acids. The remainder can be used to produce
biogas which can be upgraded to biomethane for use in gas grid or in transport.
Biomethane can be further processed into a range of chemicals, this is addressed in the
alternative ramp-up section.

The database contains a small number of commercial biorefineries in the EU. These
contribute to the overall ramp of the pathway by applying debottlenecking and expansion

249
factors. Overall, limited deployment potential is expected from debottlenecking of existing
commercial plants for pathway F.

Table 48. European demonstration biorefineries using pathway F.

Project name/ Type Scale (tpa) Feedstock Products Start-up year

company

Bioenergy 200+ Demonstration N/A Agricultural Organic 2003

GmbH residues fertilisers,
biogas

Activity at demonstration scale is rather limited in the EU, only one operational
demonstration plant was identified (Table 48). Bioenergy 200+ GmbH operates one plant
which produces organic fertilisers in Tulln, Austria630. In both the high and the low
scenarios, this plant is expected to scale up to commercial scale before 2030 (Figure 88).

Figure 88. Total incremental ramp-up for pathway F, showing additional capacity but excluding potential ramp-up of existing
commercial biorefineries.

The model predicts a limited deployment of new biorefineries by 2030 for pathway F, with
only one new commercial plant expected in both scenarios. The additional capacity from
scaling up existing demonstration plants is a main driver in the overall ramp up.

630
Petrochemicals Europe, Cracker capacity (2019) Available at: https://www.petrochemistry.eu/about-
petrochemistry/petrochemicals-facts-and-figures/cracker-capacity/.

250
Pathway G – Two-platform (oil and biogas) biorefinery using aquatic biomass

Figure 89. Overview of pathway G - Two-platform (oil and biogas) biorefinery using aquatic biomass.

In biorefinery pathway G oil is extracted from aquatic biomass using solvents during
primary refining (Figure 89). Oil can subsequently be used to produce fatty acids and
glycerol which form valuable starting materials for oleochemicals, lubricants, and
surfactants.

To date market opportunities for algae-based products are restricted to high value
products. The database contains some commercial biorefineries using algal biomass to
supply the food and the cosmetics industry. These companies, however, do not operate all
biorefinery processes as defined in Figure 89. They cultivate aquatic biomass and perform
the primary recovery step followed by selective separation of the biomass to produce high
value chemicals such as active ingredients, cosmeceuticals, pharmaceuticals. Remaining
residues after cell disruption are sold as feed.

The use of aquatic biomass to produce conventional chemical products remains limited and
is only practiced at pilot scale. Pathway G is classified as emerging and currently at TRL 4.
The hydrolysis and transesterification of algal biomass are novel approaches to produce
biochemicals. Initiatives for this processing route exist mostly in research and pilot scale,
hence they are not included in the database as they will not contribute to the ramp-up by
2030. For example, several BBI JU pilot scale projects explore cascading biorefinery

251
techniques to optimise the utilisation of the algal biomass631, or perform research activities
for the use of algae in the production of bio-plastics632633.

To date, producing bio-based chemicals and materials from algae is not economically viable
unless high value speciality chemicals are produced (e.g. cosmeceuticals,
pharmaceuticals). Ongoing research activity, especially when considering broader
environmental aspects, could lead to algae based biorefineries in the future. For example,
processing aquatic biomass into bio-based chemicals and materials presents a valuable
option to mitigate the high levels of eutrophication on European coasts634. Performing
tertiary wastewater treatment with algal biomass has been widely researched. It is a way
to remove inorganic nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorous) from effluent streams while
providing a cheap growth medium for aquatic biomass635. Further information on research
activities of pathway G can be found in WP 3 and WP 6.

Pathway H – Two-platform (organic fibres and oil) biorefinery using natural fibres

Figure 90. Overview of pathway H - Two-platform (organic fibres and oil) biorefinery using natural fibres

631
Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking, Macro cascade (2020) Available at: https://www.bbi-
europe.eu/projects/macro-cascade.
632
Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking, Nenu2phar (2020) Available at: https://www.bbi-
europe.eu/projects/nenu2phar.
633
Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking, Newpack (2020) Available at: https://www.bbi-
europe.eu/projects/newpack.
634
European Commission, Our Oceans, Seas and Coasts (2020) Available
at: https://ec.europa.eu/environment/marine/good-environmental-status/descriptor-5/index_en.htm.
635
Abdel-Raoufa N., Al-HomaidanbI A. A., Ibraheembc B.M., Microalgae and wastewater treatment, Saudi Journal of
Biological Sciences, 19(3), pp. Pages 257-275 (2012) Available
at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1319562X12000332.

252
Pathway H uses natural fibres such as flax or hemp as feedstock to produce biomaterials,
chemicals (fatty acids, fatty alcohols, glycerol), nutraceuticals, cannabinoids, food and
biodiesel. This is a two-platform pathway, where fibre separation is performed to produce
organic fibres and oil is extracted from the biomass seeds (Figure 90). While the use of
organic fibres is widely applied at commercial scale, especially in France, the extraction of
oil is still a novel practice. Hence, both platforms need to be distinguished when analysing
the potential deployment of pathway H.

The ramp-up of pathway H when relying on organic fibres as main platform (without the
utilisation of the oils via extraction), will be driven by the expansion and debottlenecking
of today’s commercial activity. This represents the established route of pathway H, hence
little innovation is expected to be reflected in the deployment.

Table 49. European demonstration biorefineries using pathway H

Project name Type Scale Feedstock Products Start-up

Company (tpa) year

CoDEM – Le Demon- N/A Oil seed, rape straw, Low density sandwich panel, NA
BATLAB636 stration flax, hemp, insulating blocks, composite
miscanthus, rapeseed materials, expanded foams

GRACE (GRowing Demon- N/A Hemp Organic fibre for composites 2017
Advanced industrial stration and building materials, Oil for
Crops on marginal chemicals, Shive for building
lands for biorEfineries) materials, Cannabinoids

The process conversions applied for oil extraction together with fibres are novel and still at
demonstration scale. Two demonstration projects were identified in the EU (Table 49). The
University of Hohenheim in Stuttgart leads to consortium of the GRACE (GRowing Advanced
industrial Crops on marginal lands for biorEfineries) project.637 The aim of the work is to
demonstrate the large-scale production and optimise the value chains of natural fibres such
as hemp and miscanthus638. The idea is to process the biomass into a portfolio of bio-based
chemicals and materials.

Figure 91. Total incremental ramp-up for pathway H, showing additional capacity but excluding potential ramp-up of existing
commercial biorefineries.

636
Agrobiobase, CoDEM – Le BATLAB, Available at: http://www.agrobiobase.com/en/database/suppliers/building-
civil/codem-le-batlab.
637
Biobased Industries Joint Undertaking, Grace, Available at: https://www.grace-bbi.eu/project/.
638
Biobased Industries Joint Undertaking, Grace, Available at: https://www.grace-bbi.eu/project/.

253
The additional capacity, in addition to debottlenecking of existing biorefineries, is expected
to originate from the scale up of demonstration plants producing bio-based chemicals and
materials from oil extraction. Operational demonstration biorefineries are expected to scale
up to commercial scale by 2030, hence the deployment outlook for pathway H assumes
the addition of two new commercial plants for both scenarios.

Pathway I – One platform (syngas) biorefinery using lignocellulosic biomass and

municipal solid waste

Figure 92. Overview of pathway I - One platform (syngas) biorefinery using lignocellulosic biomass and municipal solid waste

Dry biomass, which represents a wide range of feedstocks, is gasified to produce syngas
in pathway I. The syngas then can be chemically converted into a spectrum of chemicals
and fuels. For example, the chemical conversion of syngas produces methanol which serves
as building block to produce chemicals and materials (Figure 92).

254
Pathway I is currently at demonstration scale (TRL 7), hence it is expected to be a
commercialised conversion process by 2030. Yet, to this date there is limited operational
and planned initiatives in the biochemicals sector. Only one commercial plant, operated by
Varmlands Metanol AB in Sweden, was identified in the database.

Figure 93. Total incremental ramp-up for pathway I, showing additional capacity but excluding potential ramp-up of existing
commercial biorefineries.

The biosyngas is widely used to produce biomethanol, a biochemical which finds many
applications in the fuel sector. Recent activity of methanol as advanced biofuel suggests
strong ramp-up potential for pathway I under the high scenario assumptions (Figure 93).
As introduced earlier approximately 75% of fossil methanol is sold in the chemicals
market639. The current market size of methanol supports the assumption made in the high
scenario. The production of biomethanol according to pathway I presents a high
opportunity for the chemicals market.

The syngas can be produced using a range of feedstocks including biomass and waste
(MSW). Enerkem is an active player and operates several methanol demonstration
biorefineries. Similarly, the company is also involved in the W2C (waste-to-chemicals)
project at the Port of Rotterdam along with industrial partners operating in the chemicals
sector (i.e. Nouryon and Air Liquide)640. This specific initiative reflects increasing interest
for pathway I and therefore a strong deployment potential of pathway I for applications
across many sectors.

Figure 94. Deployment results for pathway I by number of biorefineries.

639
Nextant, Market Analytics: Methanol and derivatives, webinar (June 2020)
640
W2C-Rotterdam (2020) Available at: https://w2c-rotterdam.com/about-us.

255
The evidence of growing activity for pathway I is echoed by the ramp-up potential observed
in the high scenario. A total of 4 new commercial biorefineries are possible by 2030, this
is significant given the novel nature of the pathway (Figure 94). The deployment of
pathway I could be driven by the versatile use of methanol in various industries. Under
high scenario assumptions, a 50% share of advanced biofuels produced could therefore
contribute to the ramp-up of pathway I by 2030.

Gasification of dry biomass has gained attention of many large players, although pathway
I currently mainly supplies the fuels sector, growing activity suggests strong ramp-up
opportunities for bio-based chemicals and materials.

Pathway J – Two platform (pyrolytic liquid and biochar) biorefinery using

lignocellulosic biomass

Figure 95. Overview of pathway J - Two platform (pyrolytic liquid and biochar) biorefinery using lignocellulosic biomass

In pathway J the pyrolysis process is performed on dry biomass. Although, forest residues
are generally chosen as main feedstocks, any lignocellulosic or dry biomass can be used in
this process. Three product streams are obtained: pyrolytic liquid (pyrolysis oil), biochar
and gas (Figure 88).

Pyrolytic liquid is the main product and can be further processed into biofuels, chemical
feedstocks (e.g. naphtha), chemical building blocks (e.g. propylene), food flavourings and
heat and power. The pyrolysis oil can find use in adhesives/resins where a phenolic rich
fraction can be extracted and used in phenol formaldehyde resins.

256
The fractionation of pyrolysis liquid to produce bio-based chemicals and materials is a novel
technology. Only one existing commercial plant, Lambiotte located in Belgium641, was
identified in the database. This biorefinery performs the process of slow pyrolysis,
conventionally used to produce charcoal and a series of low value by-products. Lambiotte,
however, is an exception. They are a bio-based chemicals and materials producer and
generate energy (charcoal) as by-product. since the main product of the biorefinery is a
range of chemicals (e.g. and charcoal is the produced as waste stream of the process.

Some further research initiatives have been described in WP 3, however, this will not
contribute to the deployment of this pathway for biochemical and biomaterial biorefineries.

While the pyrolysis conversion process allows to produce a range of bio-based chemicals
and materials, it also receives growing interest in the bioenergy sector. Growing initiatives,
especially in Scandinavian countries, demonstrate a ramp-up potential under the
assumptions made in the high scenario. Existing and planned projects could contribute to
the ramp-up of pathway J (Figure 96). However, the assumptions made for other pathways
(D, E and I) sharing properties with the fuels sector are too ambitious for the novel
principles applied in pathway J. Therefore, the high scenario assumes a reduced share of
advanced biofuels (1.5%) to be sold into the chemicals market starting 2029 as opposed
to the more ambitious target of 2025. The attribution of additional time will allow to
compensate for the time needed to set up a policy as well as the time needed to scale up
the pathway. There is an existing market of acids produced from pyrolysis oil, however the
use of pyrolysis oil for bio-based chemicals and materials remains small. Assuming further
growth and development of pyrolysis processes, an additional capacity of 20kta is projected
by 2030 in the EU (Figure 96).

Figure 96. Total incremental ramp-up for pathway J, showing additional capacity but excluding potential ramp-up of existing
commercial biorefineries.

Overall, limited activity is observed in the chemical industry (see WP 3 for details of lower
TRL activities), hence no deployment could be modelled in the low scenario. Under the
conditions assumed in the high scenario, a moderate ramp-up of pathway J is possible at
the end of the decade, as existing advanced biofuel plants could contribute to the supply
potential by adding 1 new demonstration biorefinery (Figure 97).

641
Lambiotte, Available at: https://www.lambiotte.com/carbonization/.

257
 Figure 97. Deployment results for pathway J by number of biorefineries.

Pathway K – One platform (bio-crude) biorefinery using lignocellulosic, aquatic

biomass, organic residues

Figure 98 - Overview of pathway K - One platform (bio-crude) biorefinery using lignocellulosic, aquatic biomass, organic
residues

Pathway K presents an alternative thermochemical process producing liquid fuel directly

from solid biomass. In this pathway hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) is applied. Similarly,
to pathway J, a range of feedstocks can be used in this conversion process. This includes
aquatic biomass and organic residues in addition to lignocellulosic biomass. Hydrothermal
liquefaction is a novel technology and still tested at lab scale.

As of today, activity in the chemical sector is very limited, only a few pilot and research
projects were identified in WP 3. Yet, with no projects at demonstration scale, no
deployment outlook could be determined for this pathway for the low scenario.

There is growing interest for HTL in the fuels sector. However, no advanced biofuel supply
potential is considered in the high scenario, since the bio-crude oil needs to be upgraded
(e.g. co-processing in a crude oil refinery to produce fuels, chemical feedstocks and
chemicals). The link between biochemicals and materials and advanced biofuels is not as
straight forward compared to the link in pathway I.

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5.5.3 POTENTIAL LOCATIONS OF BIOREFINERY DEPLOYMENT IN THE EU

In this section, the potential for future biorefinery deployment in the EU is analysed. Firstly,
regional secondary biomass feedstock potentials were gathered from S2Biom642 for
different categories of feedstocks, in order to determine whether there are favourable
regions with high biomass potential that could support the deployment of a biorefinery.
The maps make use of the base potentials (kta dry matter) from the S2Biom Project
(2016)643. The base potential is described as the sustainable technical potential, taking into
account sustainability standards for agricultural forestry and land management, such as
those found in the Common Agricultural Policy and in agreed national and regional forestry
management plans. It is important to note that these potentials do not take into
consideration competing uses of feedstocks.

In this report, feedstock is considered first on an EU-wide scale, before focusing on the
potential of BIOEAST initiative countries for supporting biorefinery development, where
investment has historically been lower.

Secondly, a study of the potential for existing sites to locate biorefineries was conducted,
where infrastructure and supply chains may already be in place, in turn reducing the
burden of investment. Using the JRC Bio-based industry visualiser644, three categories were
selected as potential candidate sites: pulp and paper mills, wood working industries sites,
and sugar and starch processing facilities. Further sites were then mapped from multiple
sources, to account for chemical parks, crude oil refineries and steam crackers, that could
potentially support biorefineries and start-ups which drive the uptake of innovative
pathways. This support may be in the form of land access, and shared infrastructure and
utilities.

Availability of agricultural residues

Agricultural residue potential is an estimate of the material left behind after a crop has
been harvested, such as straws and stalks, and can be processed through Pathways E,
F, H, I, J and K. Figure 99shows the estimated agricultural residue potential in the EU by
NUTS 3 region, with the total residue potential for each country listed in the right-hand
table. The north-east of France has significant agricultural residue potential and contains
the region of Aisne (NUTS 3 code FRE21), which is the region with the largest potential in
the EU of 1,602 kta. The second highest potential region is the Central Bohemian region of
the Czech Republic (code CZ020), with 1,595 kta.

642
S2biom (2016) Available at : https://www.s2biom.eu/en/.
643
Dees, M., et al., A spatial data base on sustainable biomass cost-supply of lignocellulosic biomass in Europe-
methods & data sources. (2017).
644
Parisi, C., Baldoni, E., M'barek, R., European Commission, Joint Research Centre (2020): Bio-based industry and
biorefineries. European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC) [Dataset] PID:
http://data.europa.eu/89h/ee438b10-7723-4435-9f5e-806ab63faf37

259
 Figure 99. Map of agricultural residue potential in the European Union (kta dry matter)645

The BIOEAST initiative countries include some of the countries with the largest agricultural
residue potential in the EU (Figure 92), with Poland (3rd highest), Romania (5th highest)
and Hungary (6th highest) all with estimated nationwide potentials of over 10 million tonnes
per year. Promising regions from the perspective of agricultural residue availability include
the Vysočina (CZ063) and South Moravian (CZ064) regions of the Czech Republic, Bács-
Kiskun in Hungary (HU331) and Chełmsko-zamojski in Poland (PL812).

Figure 100. Map of agricultural residue potential in BIOEAST initiative countries (kta dry matter)646

645
S2biom, Tools for biomass chains, Available at: https://s2biom.wenr.wur.nl/web/guest/home.
646
S2biom, Tools for biomass chains, Available at: https://s2biom.wenr.wur.nl/web/guest/home.

260
Availability of forestry residues

Forestry residue potential includes all by-products from the forestry industry, including
branches, roots, leaves, etc, and is of relevance to Pathways D, E, F, I, J and K. Figure
101 shows regional forestry residue potential on an EU-wide scale. A significant portion of
EU forestry residue potential is concentrated in Sweden and Finland: Sweden contains the
five NUTS 3 regions with the highest forestry residue potential, while Sweden and Finland
exclusively contain the highest 15 regions. Germany and France additionally have
significant forestry residue potentials, with high potential found in the south-west of
France: however, NUTS 3 regions for both countries are considerably smaller by area.

Figure 101. Map of forestry residue potential in the European Union (kta dry matter)647

There is also significant potential from forestry residues in BIOEAST countries, particularly
Poland, Romania, Czech Republic and Latvia as shown in Figure 102. Latvia especially has
a number of high potential regions, such as Vidzeme (LV008, 2,837 kta), Kurzeme (LV003,
2,445 kta) and Latgale (LV005, 2,075 kta). Other regions with high potential include the
Central Bohemian (CZ020, 2,185 kta) and South Moravian (CZ064, 2,240 kta) regions of
the Czech Republic; the Lõuna-Eesti region of Estonia (EE008, 2,451 kta); and the northern
regions of Romania, in particular Suceava County (RO215, 1,490 kta).

647
S2biom, Tools for biomass chains, Available at: https://s2biom.wenr.wur.nl/web/guest/home.

261
 Figure 102. Map of forestry residue potential in BIOEAST initiative countries (kta dry matter)648

Availability of grass residues

Grass residues are an often underutilised biogenic resource, which is of relevance to

Pathways E, F, H, I, J and K. Of EU countries (Figure 103), Ireland has an extremely
significant regional grass residue potential, and has a national potential second only to
France. Outside of Ireland, the most significant regions with potential are found in central
France, the south of Czech Republic, and north Romania.

Figure 103. Map of grass residues potential in the European Union (kta dry matter)649

648
S2biom, Tools for biomass chains, Available at: https://s2biom.wenr.wur.nl/web/guest/home.
649
S2biom, Tools for biomass chains, Available at: https://s2biom.wenr.wur.nl/web/guest/home.

262
Only six countries have a potential of 1 million tonnes of grass residues or more, with three
of the six (Romania, Poland and Czech Republic) being members of BIOEAST. These three
countries have significantly more potential from grass residues than all other countries in
the region (Figure 104), with Romania and Czech Republic showing significant
concentrations in the north and south of each country respectively. Prominent regions in
Romania include Mureș County (RO124, 259 kta), Caraș-Severin County (RO422, 211 kta)
and Cluj County (RO113, 178 kta). The highest potential regions in the Czech Republic are
South Bohemia (CZ031, 242 kta) and Plzeň (CZ032, 170 kta).

Figure 104. Map of grass residues in the BIOEAST initiative (kta dry matter)650

Potential locations based on existing infrastructure

The EU has a number of pre-existing bio-based industries with which future biorefineries
could find synergy, harnessing the existing infrastructure, supply chains and relevant
expertise to increase the financial and logistic viability of a new biorefinery. The JRC Bio-
based industry visualiser651 is an interactive dashboard illustrating an extensive database
of EU facilities producing different categories of bio-based products. From this, three
industries have been filtered:

• Pulp and paper mills: The integration of biorefineries with pulp and paper mills is
an ongoing and promising development652,653,654,655. Both pulp and paper mills
produce significant waste in the form of rejects, liquor sludge and wastewater
treatment sludge, at a rate of 100-600 kg/air dry tonne (Adt) depending upon the

650
S2biom, Tools for biomass chains, Available at: https://s2biom.wenr.wur.nl/web/guest/home.
651
Parisi, C., Baldoni, E., M'barek, R., European Commission, Joint Research Centre (2020): Bio-based industry and
biorefineries. European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC) [Dataset] PID:
http://data.europa.eu/89h/ee438b10-7723-4435-9f5e-806ab63faf37
652
Gottumukkala, Lalitha Devi, et al. "Opportunities and prospects of biorefinery-based valorisation of pulp and paper
sludge." Bioresource technology 215 (2016): 37-49.
653
Rafione, Tatiana, et al. "The green integrated forest biorefinery: an innovative concept for the pulp and paper
mills." Applied thermal engineering 73.1 (2014): 74-81.
654
Mongkhonsiri, Ghochapon, et al. "Integration of the biorefinery concept for the development of sustainable
processes for pulp and paper industry." Computers & Chemical Engineering 119 (2018): 70-84.
655
Consonni, Stefano, Ryan E. Katofsky, and Eric D. Larson. "A gasification-based biorefinery for the pulp and paper
industry." Chemical Engineering Research and Design 87.9 (2009): 1293-1317.

263
 end product656. This waste can be utilised as a feedstock for butanol, ethanol, fuels
or chemicals production via fermentation (Pathway D), gasification (Pathway I),
pyrolysis (Pathway J) as discussed in detail by Gottumukkala et al657, or via HTL
(Pathway K)658. Figure 105 shows the significant pulp and paper industry throughout
Europe, with existing mills present in all EU countries. There are a significant
number of mills in the central Europe area, across Italy, Germany, Austria, Slovenia
and Poland. Many of the BIOEAST countries have multiple pulp and paper mills
present, although Latvia and Estonia have a limited pulp and paper industry despite
both having significant forestry residue potential.

Figure 105. Pulp and Paper mills in the European Union651

• Wood working industries: a significant growth in wood working industry would be

expected to correlate with high woody biomass residue potential, and therefore
represent opportunities for the development of Pathways D, E, F, I, J and K. Stafford
et al estimate there to be 129 possible pathways producing 78 different unique
products, between the biorefineries of pulp and paper, and wood working
industries659. Figure 106 illustrates the location of wood working industries in the
EU, with significant concentrations of facilities in central Europe and Scandinavia.
Latvia and Estonia, which were noted to have a limited pulp and paper industry,
have a significant wood working industry, indicating that waste wood and woody
biomass residues from pulping may not currently be utilised for other purposes and
that opportunities for woody biomass residues valorisation through biorefining may
exist as a result. Romania has a wood working industry concentrated in the north
of the country, where the country’s feedstock potential is greatest. Wood working
industries in the south of Europe is notably limited, with few opportunities for
synergy in countries such as Bulgaria and Croatia.

656
Monte, M. Concepcion, et al. "Waste management from pulp and paper production in the European Union." Waste
management 29.1 (2009): 293-308.
657
Gottumukkala, Lalitha Devi, et al. "Opportunities and prospects of biorefinery-based valorisation of pulp and paper
sludge." Bioresource technology 215 (2016): 37-49.
658
Qian, Lili, Shuzhong Wang, and Phillip E. Savage. "Fast and isothermal hydrothermal liquefaction of sludge at
different severities: Reaction products, pathways, and kinetics." Applied Energy 260 (2020): 114312.
659
Stafford, W., et al. "Forestry biorefineries." Renewable Energy (2020).

264
 Figure 106. Wood working industries in the European Union651

• Sugar and starch processing facilities: Sugar refineries and starch biorefineries also
produce a significant amount of both solid and liquid waste, relevant for Pathways
E, F, I, J and K. Figure 107 shows that sugar and starch processing sites tend to be
more sparse and spread across northern and central Europe. Of the BIOEAST
countries, processing facilities are overwhelmingly situated in Poland, Czech
Republic, Slovenia and Hungary, with very few sites available in the northern
countries of Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia, or Romania and Bulgaria in the south,
indicating that there are fewer opportunities for biorefinery synergy based on sugar
platforms in these regions.

Figure 107. Sugar and starch processing facilities in the European Union651

265
Finally, the locations of existing industrial fuel and/or chemical sites were investigated, as
these are sites that could potentially support biorefineries and start-ups that can drive the
uptake of innovative pathways. These complexes are often situated also at important EU
ports/harbours which will give the opportunity to efficiently import biomass feedstocks
from in/out-site Europe for potential processing of bio-based processing, i.e. decoupling of
the feedstock potential to the biorefinery processing facilities.

A list of operational crude oil refineries was sourced from a combination of databases,
namely the Oil&Gas Journal Database660, and Enerdata Refinery Database661. A list of
steam crackers was available from Petrochemicals Europe662, while a list of chemical parks
is publicly available from the European Chemical Site Promotion Platform663. These three
site categories were combined and mapped, shown in Figure 108.

Figure 108 shows that the northern and central regions of Europe have well-developed
refinery infrastructure and supply chains, with numerous sites from all three categories
situated in close proximity. Some countries, such as Spain, Romania and Croatia, have a
significant refinery presence without corresponding chemical or steam cracking facilities,
indicating that further investment may be required when compared to countries with all
three, such as Germany, Poland or Austria. In the case of Romania, its refineries are further
situated in the east of the country away from its high feedstock potential in the north,
which may further impede biorefinery development.

When focusing on BIOEAST countries, industrial sites are scarce in the northern countries
of Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania, and in Bulgaria: although all of these countries have
feedstock potential and existing industries where wastes could be sources, infrastructure
and supply chain investment may be required for the successful implementation of
biorefineries in these countries. Countries such as Czech Republic, Hungary and Slovenia
may experience fewer barriers to realising a biorefinery industry, as both countries have
feedstock potential from multiple sources and an existing, varied infrastructure already in
place spanning refining and chemicals. Romania has a significant feedstock potential, and
both Romania and Croatia have operating refineries.

Figure 108. Map of chemical parks, steam crackers and crude refineries in the European Union (multiple sources – see text
above)

660
Oil & Gas Journal Research, Available at: https://www.ogj.com/ogj-survey-downloads/worldwide-refining
661
Enerdata World Refinery Database (2020), Available at: https://www.enerdata.net/research/world-refineries-
database.html
662
Petrochemicals Europe, Available at: https://www.petrochemistry.eu/about-petrochemistry/petrochemicals-facts-
and-figures/cracker-capacity/
663
Chemical Parks, Available at: https://chemicalparks.eu/

266
5.5.4 ALTERNATIVE BIO-BASED CHEMICALS AND MATERIALS RAMP-UP ROUTES

The production of bio-based chemicals and materials can be achieved through other
production routes than chemical and material focused biorefineries. Four alternative routes
for production have been identified and the current and future production in the high and
the low scenarios has been projected for each of these.

The four routes are:

Food and feed crop based fuel-focused biorefineries switching focus to the
chemicals market – crop based bioethanol biorefineries currently focus mainly on the
fuels market (i.e. gasoline blending of ethanol). In the EU, these biorefineries do already
sell some bioethanol for chemicals but this is estimated at less than 5% of today
production664. Outside the EU, there are some producers dehydrating ethanol to produce
ethylene, for example Braskem in Brazil and Croda in the US. Ethylene is the largest
chemical building block globally and installed capacity to produce ethylene from steam
crackers (the largest conventional source of fossil ethylene) in the EU is ~23 million
tonnes665. About 1.8 tonnes of ethanol is required per tonne of ethylene produced666. It is
unlikely by 2030 that ethanol dehydration would replace operational steam crackers as a
major source of ethylene, but ethanol use for ethylene could however capture a proportion
of the future growth ethylene by 2030 however. The following is assumed under each
scenario:

• High – 50% of the incremental ethylene production in the EU by 2030 is met by

ethanol rather than from conventional fossil sources such as steam cracking of
naphtha667.

• Low – 10% growth in ethylene production until 2030 is met by ethanol rather than
from conventional fossil sources.

This is an important option to consider especially if electrification of passenger cars

increases rapidly, reducing the requirement for gasoline and therefore the requirement
for ethanol blending in gasoline. The level of electrification as well as the blending
levels, ethanol’s use as a sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and availability and cost of
Brazilian and US ethanol imports are also major factors here. Forecasting this outlook
is not part of this study, but if the fuel market for existing ethanol biorefineries in the
EU diminishes, then chemicals could be another market that to support these plants
and maintain some of the GHG savings they provide.

Co-processing in petroleum refineries to produce chemicals (e.g. olefins) or

chemical feedstocks (naphtha, BTX, LPG) – Concawe estimate that, as of 2017, there
was approximately 800 Mt/year of existing refining capacity in the EU668. As of 2020, there
is an estimated 600 kt/year of co-processing capacity in the EU, which is almost exclusively
from co-processing of lipids in refinery diesel hydrotreaters. Co-processing of pyrolysis oil
in an FCC has been demonstrated in the past to be technically feasible, most notably by
Ensyn and Petrobras669, and will be carried out commercially by Preem (TRL 7-8) in its
Lysekil refinery (Sweden) in 2021670, where 25kt/year of pyrolysis oil will be produced from

664
ePURE (2020) Available at: https://www.epure.org/resources/statistics-and-infographics/
665
Petrochemicals Europe, Available at: https://www.petrochemistry.eu/about-petrochemistry/petrochemicals-facts-
and-figures/cracker-capacity/
666
Denise Fan, Der-Jong Dai and Ho-Shing Wu, Ethylene Formation by Catalytic Dehydration of Ethanol with Industrial
Considerations, Materials (2013) 6, 101-115; doi:10.3390/ma6010101
667
The assumed consumption growth of ethylene is 3.5% CAGR. Ethylene is not widely traded between regions and
therefore consumption is assumed to equal production. The production in 2020 is estimated based on the steam
cracker capacity for ethylene with an assumed operating rate of 80%.
668
Concawe, Refinery sites in Europe. (2020) Available at: https://www.concawe.eu/refineries-map/ (Accessed
November 2020)
669
de Rezende Pinho, Andrea, et al., Co-processing raw bio-oil and gasoil in an FCC Unit. Fuel Processing Technology
131 (2015): 159-166.
670
Preem (2019) Available at: https://www.preem.com/in-english/investors/corral/renewable-fuel-projects/

267
sawdust at Setra Kastet sawmill671. Honeywell UOP and Ensyn through their Envergent
Technologies joint venture also claim to have multiple full-scale installations scheduled in
Europe, Asia and USA672.

However, other co-processing routes have yet to reach commercialisation, and remain at
TRL 5-6 or below. This is because in addition to being a technically complex process, co-
processing entails technical risks to a low-margin high-volume industry and requires
significant amounts of feedstock due to the size of a typical refinery. Co-processing today
has been demonstrated up to 30% by Haldor Topsøe but is likely to be limited to between
5-10% due to catalyst and metallurgy limitations673. However, a number of large refining
companies have committed to installing additional significant co-processing capacity in the
coming years, including Total674, OMV Petrom675 and Neste676, and this trend is expected
to continue. As such, the following is assumed under each scenario:

• High – 5% of current refinery capacity in the EU is used for co-processing by 2030:

this rate is chosen as, although refineries may be capable of higher co-processing
rates, not all refineries and hydrotreaters may be suitable.

• Low – 2.5% of current refinery capacity in the EU is used for co-processing by

2030.

It is further assumed that refineries will continue to favour fuel production over
chemical production. Using Concawe “Max Low-Carbon Feedstock” scenario estimates
for chemicals co-processing from lipids and biomass677, 25% of refinery output will be
in the form of chemicals: assuming a 52% conversion efficiency from the same
scenario, this gives ~13% bio-based content in chemical feedstocks or chemicals
produced. This factor is applied to both the high and low scenarios in order to estimate
total biochemical feedstocks and biochemicals production.

Co-processing in steam crackers to produce chemicals. Steam crackers produce

ethylene, propylene and C4+ streams and are the major route to the production of
chemicals globally. These biorefineries conventionally process naphtha or other liquids
sourced primarily from petroleum refineries, or gases such as ethane, propane or butane
(i.e. LPG). Some European steam cracker operators are co-processing bio-based
feedstocks as well as these conventional fossil feedstocks. A mass balance approach is then
being pursued to allocate this feedstock to various steam cracker products. For example:

• LyondellBasell’s steam cracker flexibility allowed it to introduce a new renewable

feedstock at its Wesseling, Germany site, which was converted directly into bio-
polyethylene and bio-polypropylene.678

671
Preem (2020) Available at: https://news.cision.com/preem-ab/r/sweden-s-first-pyrolysis-oil-plant-for-biofuels-
under-construction,c3136758
672
Mahajan D., Refinery Coprocessing Options for Advanced Biofuels Production, Honeywell UOP (2019) Available at:
https://ec.europa.eu/info/sites/info/files/33_dharmesh_mahajan.pdf
673
Concawe, Refinery 2050: Conceptual Assessment. Exploring opportunities and challenges for the EU refining
industry to transition towards a low-CO2 intensive economy (2019) Available at: https://www.concawe.eu/wp-
content/uploads/Rpt_19-9-1.pdf
674
Porter A., Total eyes out for further HVO expansion, Argus Media (2020) Available at:
https://www.argusmedia.com/en/news/2145882-total-eyes-further-hvo-expansion
675
OMW, Biogenic oil co-processing (2020) Available at: https://reports.omv.com/en/sustainability-report/2019/focus-
areas/innovation/biogenic-oil-co-processing.html
676
Neste Corporation, Neste plans to restructure its refinery operations in Finland and starts co-operation negotiations
(2020) Available at: https://www.neste.com/releases-and-news/oil-products/neste-plans-restructure-its-refinery-
operations-finland-and-starts-co-operation-negotiations
677
Concawe, Refinery 2050: Conceptual Assessment. Exploring opportunities and challenges for the EU refining
industry to transition towards a low-CO2 intensive economy (2019) Available at: https://www.concawe.eu/wp-
content/uploads/Rpt_19-9-1.pdf
678
Bioplastics, Neste and LyondellBasell produce bio-PP and bio-LDPE at commercial scale (2019) Available at:
https://www.bioplasticsmagazine.com/en/news/meldungen/20190618Neste-and-LyondellBasell-produce-bio-PP-
and-bio-LDPE-at-commercial-scale.php

268
 • SABIC is also processing some waste oils and fats at its Geleen facility in the
Netherlands.679

• BASF is processing some bio-based feedstocks at its Ludwigshafen Verbund site and
the company appears to be focused on producing speciality bioproducts (e.g. bio-
polyamides) rather than commodity polyolefins.680

The quantities currently being processed are not known but indicative estimates for
2030 are based on the following assumptions to estimate the quantity of steam cracker
chemical products produced (primarily ethylene, propylene):

• High – 5% of current steam cracker capacity in the EU is used for co-processing

by 2030.

• Low – 2.5% of current steam cracker capacity in the EU is used for co-processing
by 2030.

Co-processing in existing methanol biorefineries. As well as producing methanol via

the biorefinery pathways described in this study, methanol can also be produced from
biogas which is upgraded to biomethane and then reformed to produce biosyngas and co-
processed in existing methanol plants with fossil natural gas. This route produces the
largest volume of biomethanol today but does not fall under the definition of a biorefinery
used in this study.

BioMCN formerly produced biomethanol from glycerol in the Netherlands. In 2015, BioMCN
was acquired by OCI N.V. and continued producing renewable methanol from biogas with
a capacity about 60,000 metric tonnes per year. The biogas has to be cleaned to obtain a
gas with high methane content which is then supplied to the natural gas grid. BioMCN uses
gas from the grid and converts to methanol. They purchase green gas certificates and the
methanol produced is on a mass balance basis certified as bio-methanol. 681 This has been
used as the current estimate for biomethanol production via this route in the EU. It is
understood that other methanol plant operators in the EU also used this route but the
volumes produced are not known. For the outlook to 2030 the following assumptions have
been made:

• High – 30% of current methanol production capacity in the EU is used for co-
processing by 2030.

• Low – 5.0% of current methanol production capacity in the EU is used for co-
processing by 2030.

These routes could produce very significant quantities of bio-based chemicals and materials
by 2030 in the EU. These routes will be both in competition and supportive of the
biorefinery pathways discussed in the previous section. They are supportive as they could
help develop biomass supply chains and develop markets for bio-based products. However,
they are also in competition in some cases with biorefinery pathways as they can in some
cases produce the same products (e.g. biomethanol) or substitute products (e.g. PLA vs
biopolypropylene).

In the outlook for deployment and roadmaps developed in WP 6, the actions are focused
on how to bring about the maximum benefits to the EU (GHG reduction, replacement of
fossil carbon with renewable carbon, GHG reductions, local jobs in rural economies etc..).

679
Beacham, W., Special report: SABIC takes first steps into renewable polyolefins (2014) Available at:
https://www.icis.com/explore/resources/news/2014/06/23/9793016/special-report-sabic-takes-first-steps-into-
renewable-polyolefins/
680
BASF, BASF recognized for its contribution to sustainable development (updated 2020) Available at:
https://www.basf.com/global/en/media/news-releases/2019/06/p-19-245.html
681
Compagne P., COO BioMCN, Bio-methanol production at BioMCN (2017) Available at: https://brintbranchen.dk/wp-
content/uploads/2017/10/Paul-Compagne_BioMCN.pdf

269
The actions are therefore not solely in favour or producing bio-based chemicals and
materials from the pathways described in this study or these alternative pathways, and
may support or hinder the ramp up of each.

Table 50. Alternative bio-based chemicals and materials supply ramp-up

Routes Scenario Input, % of asset capacity Output, biochemical

used for biochemical or and biomaterial
biomaterial production capacity, Mtpa

Crop based fuel-focused Current (2020 4.8% 0.37

biorefineries switching focus to estimate)
the chemicals market
High (2030) 50.0% 3.90
Low (2030) 22.8% 1.78

Co-processing in petroleum Current (2020 0.0% 0.00

refineries to produce chemicals estimate)
(e.g. olefins) or chemical
feedstocks (naphtha, BTX, LPG) High (2030) 5.0% 5.11
Low (2030) 2.5% 2.56
Co-processing in steam crackers Current (2020 not known not known
to produce chemicals (e.g. estimate)
olefins)
High (2030) 5.0% 1.96

Low (2030) 2.5% 0.98

Co-processing in methanol Current (2020 2.5% 0.06

biorefineries estimate)

High (2030) 30.0% 0.72

Low (2030) 5.0% 0.12

Current (2020 estimate) 0.4*

High growth (2030) 11.7

Low growth (2030) 5.4

*Current co-processing of bio-based feedstocks in steam crackers is unknown and not all co-processing in methanol plants has
been captured in the 2020 estimate.

5.6 Comparison of supply in the EU to supply in top 10 non-EU countries in database

In order to supplement the potential supply ramp-up assessment, this section compares
regions within the EU in terms of their likelihood of biorefinery deployment by 2030. This
comparison is performed qualitatively and considers current and planned biorefinery
activity as well as feedstock availability (analysed in the sub-section above). The aim is to
identify regions that could be the host for clusters or act as pioneer regions particularly for
pathways with the strongest ramp-up potential.

In a next step we aim to position the role of EU chemical and material driven biorefineries
on a global scale. For this we are comparing supply for individual pathways in the EU to 10
other countries. The database developed in WP 4 used as basis for this ramp-up model
contains information about biorefineries located in Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, India,
Japan, Norway, Thailand, the UK, and the USA. The methodology and reasoning applied to
select these non-EU countries is addressed in WP 4.

270
 Figure 109. Distribution of bio-based chemicals and materials focused biorefineries in 2020 in the EU.

Chemicals and materials driven biorefineries are widely distributed across the European
continent, particularly Western and Central Europe. The database contains approximately
300 biorefineries located in the EU (Figure 109).

The ramp-up model estimates between 27 and 44 new biorefineries by 2030 depending on
the scenario considered. Figure 110 displays the number of additional plants to be built by
the end of the decade, with pathways D and E showing the strongest ramp-up potential
for both scenarios. Pathways I also shows strong supply deployment when applying the
high scenario assumptions. Although it is not possible to predict the exact location of the
new builds, the assessment of feedstock potential and existing industrial sites described in
the previous sub section give an indication of possible sites. As discussed above, BIOEAST
regions present a lot of potential in terms of feedstock availability, but these resources are
not exploited yet for bio-based chemicals and materials focused refineries.

Figure 110. Ramp-up of additional plants by 2030, high and low scenario.

271
The supply ramp up model concludes limited deployment potential for the mature pathways
(A-C) relying on first generation crops. Yet, when applicable, the model highlights
initiatives of industries switching to integrated biorefineries and diversifying their product
portfolio. For example, in the sugar industry (pathway A), some innovative activity of
processing sugar residues into bio-based chemicals and materials was identified. The
observed diversification from traditional products could contribute to the ramp of this
pathway in the EU. However, compared to the other world regions with more resources
and larger surface areas, the EU shows limited competitive advantage for the processing
of crop-based biomass.

Figure 111. Distribution of pathways by region (%), EU vs. Non-EU

The mature pathways A-D make up over 80% of non-EU biorefineries identified in the
database (Figure 111). Bio-based chemicals and materials produced from food and feed
crops are widely distributed around the Americas and Asia (Figure 112).

272
 Figure 112. Share of biorefineries using pathways A-D in non-EU countries.

Brazil is a major producer of sugarcane ethanol at global. Biorefineries using pathway A

therefore dominate the deployment in Brazil. Braskem, for example, is an active player
and operates several commercial plants in the country. The company processes sugar crops
(sugar cane) into a range of products including bioethanol and its derivatives bioethylene
and polyethylene. The bioethanol goes through a two-step conversion process. First the
chemical process converts the ethanol into ethylene which is then further polymerized into
polyethylene.

The biorefinery deployment in North America shows ongoing activity in all mature pathways
(A-C). The high feedstock availability gives this region a major cost competitive advantage
to process first generation crops into a range of bio-based chemicals and materials. For
example, US-based CAGRill processes corn into C6 sugars which are fermented into
bioethanol and lactic acid. The obtained lactic acid can be further processed into polylactic
acid (PLA) for use in biodegradable plastic applications682.

China shows a diverse scene of bio-based chemicals and materials focused refineries,
activities in all mature pathways (A-C) were identified in the database. Biorefineries
producing lactic acid and derivatives from pathways A and B represent the majority of the
identified activity in China.

Vegetable oil, such as palm oil, is widely available in Asia. KLK OLEO, based in Malaysia
processes a wide range of oleochemicals from palm oil683. Other notable activity in the
South East Asian region include the Total Corbion PLA joint venture in Thailand. In a first
step Corbion ferments C6 sugars from sugar cane into lactic acid. The product is then
converted into lactide monomers and polylactic acid at the Total Corbion PLA (poly lactic

682
Natureworks, Ingeo, Available at: https://www.natureworksllc.com/What-is-Ingeo/How-Ingeo-is-Made
683
KLK OLEO, Available at: https://www.klkoleo.com/

273
acid) refinery. The continuous flow of operations is possible since both plants are located
at the same site.

Bio-based chemicals and materials focused refinery development in India is largely

dominated by sugar-based processes. Godavari Biorefineries Ltd produces acetic acid from
sugar crops at its Sakarwadi facility in Maharashtra684.

Under both scenarios developed, pathways D and E present the strongest ramp-up
potential in the EU for the timeline considered. This comes as a result of several favourable
conditions including feedstock availability, relatively high maturity of the processes, strong
link to the biofuels industry and for pathway D the diversification of forest-based industries,
widely present across the continent.

Today, biorefineries using pathway D are mainly located in Scandinavia, France and
Germany, yet high availability of woody biomass residues and wood working industries
sites in BIOEAST regions suggest deployment potential in these parts of the EU (see sub
section above). Outside of the EU, the database identifies Japan and the East of the US as
regions with a strong forest-based industry and activity for pathway D. There is also a lot
of ongoing activity of the forest-based sector in China and Russia, these are however not
captured in the database.

The conversion of lignocellulosic crops as defined in pathway E is expected to ramp-up

significantly by 2030 in the EU. While existing and planned biorefineries are mainly located
in France and Germany, the previous section highlights lignocellulosic biomass availability
in BIOEAST regions. Outside of the EU, activities in North America present a strong
potential for the deployment of this pathway.

The EU dominates initiatives and projects for emerging pathways F – K. Support for these
pathways is prompted by availability of agricultural, grass and forest residues in the EU.
The database notes no biorefineries for these pathways in the 10 non-EU countries
analysed. This suggests that the EU leads the work of early-stage development of bio-
based chemicals and materials focused biorefineries. While the commercial application of
more mature pathways maybe more cost competitive outside of the EU, in countries with
larger resource availability.

5.7 Comparison of EU demand vs EU supply

The third objective of WP 5 is to define scenarios for development and deployment of
biorefineries to 2030 based on the potential demand for biorefinery products and the
potential supply of these products. The first section of WP 5 analyses the potential demand
of bio-based chemicals and materials in the EU under different sets of assumptions forming
the high and the low scenario. The second section of this WP assesses the potential supply
from EU biorefineries by 2030. The table shows the low and high demand and supply
outlooks are compared to provide an assessment of the proportion of the market that is
likely to be supplied by EU biorefineries (Figure 113).

684
http://news.bio-based.eu/re-startingproduction-of-bio-based-acetic-acid-from-august-2018/

274
 Figure 113. Demand vs. Supply of bio-based chemicals and materials in the EU in 2030.

For both scenarios the demand side estimates are higher than the projected supply ramp
up from EU biorefineries. The supply figures determine how much of the potential EU
demand can be met by EU biorefineries (Figure 113). The gap between the EU production
from biorefineries and the EU consumption (shown in grey in Figure 113) can be filled in
different ways.

For example, the remaining EU demand could be met through imports from the global
market depending on the EU’s relative strength in the technology, geographic location and
specific characteristics of the product’s supply chains. The EU’s position on the bio-based
chemicals and materials focused refineries at global scale is discussed in the comparison
of supply in the EU to supply in top 10 non-EU countries in database.

Alternatively, the projections developed in the alternative bio-based chemicals and

materials ramp-up routes could be another way to supply the EU demand. However, the
ramp up of alternative routes may introduce some feedstock competition with the supply
ramp up of some pathways. For example, the alternative route utilising crop-based fuel-
focused biorefineries switching focus to the chemicals market directly compete with
pathways A and B both relying on crop as feedstock. This should be acknowledged when
attributing remaining demand to the alternative ramp up routes.

These high-level estimates are open to a degree of uncertainty. The underlying

assumptions were validated with relevant stakeholders during the second stakeholder
workshop.

275
6 WP 6 – EU BIOREFINERY OUTLOOK AND ROADMAP FOR DEPLOYMENT

This section includes i) roadmaps to help ramp-up chemical and material driven
biorefineries, ii) an outlook for deployment of biorefineries in the EU to 2030 and the
associated capital required as well as EU level benefits. It was led by E4tech.

6.1 Objective

The objectives of WP 6 are:

Objective 1: to develop a roadmap with the actions needed to ramp-up chemical and
material driven biorefineries, and highlight the EU wide benefits that could be achieved.

Objective 2: to develop an outlook for deployment of biorefineries in the EU to 2030,

based on potential ramp up per pathway, potential production capacities, and capital
required.

6.2 Approach

The following approach has been taken:

1. Summarise barriers and identify actions

2. Map actions on timeline and attribute actions by stakeholder group

3. Develop the biorefinery outlook for deployment in the EU

4. Quantify EU GHG reduction and local jobs creation potential

To summarise barriers and identify actions firstly all relevant information developed
in previous WPs was collected, this included:

• Barriers from WP 2 and 3 (including the findings from the stakeholder workshops)

• Research needs from WP 3

• Policy drivers from WP 2

We further developed this work by clarifying/adding to the barriers from these WPs,
rearranging them by pathway (as defined in WP 3), adding more barriers from literature,
developing actions for them and adding comments/questions where some discussion on
these is required. These draft results were then developed further in three 2 hour virtual
workshops ran by E4tech with partners from WUR, FNR and BTG.

In these workshops we:

• reviewed the barriers and actions for each pathway, and made sure we have a
complete and correct agreed list of actions for each pathway, to form the basis of
the roadmaps.

• discussed the impact of these barriers and actions on EU biorefineries. This helped
to develop an outlook for deployment i.e. given these barriers and actions, what is
deployment likely to be compared with the high and low scenarios developed in WP
5 (see the following section – outlook for deployment).

Once all the barriers and actions were developed, these were mapped on a timeline
and then each action was attributed to one or more stakeholder groups.

276
The barriers and actions, as well as the roadmaps are provided in the following sub-section
‘Chemical and material driven biorefinery roadmaps’.

Stakeholder type
Policy makers
Bio industry & associations
Chemical/material industry & Industry associations • Clear market based policy in place ​

EXPECTED STATUS
• Sustainability framework in
Academia & Research institutions operation​
NGOs & Civil societies Type of actions • 42 additional biorefineries across
Investment community Policy & regulation different pathways​
• Potential GHG savings of 3.5
Support for RD&D and scale up million tonnes ​CO2eq

Information and coordination

2020 2025 2030

Set EU sector targets for GHG

reduction in EU chemicals Figure 114. Roadmap example and keys685
production

Develop EU mandate for GHG Implement increasing EU mandate for GHG reduction in chemicals sold in the EU
reduction in chemicals sold
in the EU
The categories (e.g. economic) are aligned with the sub-headings within the ‘barriers and
actions Develop
common to for
EU mandate all pathways’
Implement and pathway-specific
EU mandate sections.
for bio/low GHG content Theproducts
for hard to recycle actions are
bio/low GHG content for hard
summarised inproducts
to recycle the roadmaps and are described provided in more detail in these sub-
sections.
Ban sale of selected non-recycled fossil-based products and/or set a
reducing target for fossil material used
The stakeholder types represented are:
Chemical producers and users
set voluntary GHG reduction
• Policy makers (P)
commitments

Develop MS public procurement Implement MS public procurement standards specifying bio, recycled
• Bio industry
standards & bio,
specifying
or CO2-based products
associations
recycled (B)
or CO2-based products

Tax fossil input to chemicals industry

• Chemical/material industry & Industry associations (C)
ECONOMIC

Reform EU ETS to increase CO2 price

• Academia & Research institutions (A)
Develop Carbon Border Implement Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism
Adjustment Mechanism
• NGOs & Civil societies (N)
Support investigation of optimal use of EU biomass feedstock

• Investment Community
Conduct R&D focusing (I) across all biorefinery pathways
on cost reduction
through continuing activities such as Horizon Europe, Circular
Bio-based Europe and MS support
The draft roadmaps were presented to the Stakeholder Advisory Group in early January
2021 toEstablish
assess
industrial
partnerships to develop biorefineries on existing
whether
sites all actions needed to overcome barriers have been identified and
to reduce costs
characterised correctly.
Improve process economics by identifying connections between
different pathways and other industries
The next part was to develop the outlook for deployment which estimates the number
Expand biomass/waste feedstock databases to identify low cost resources
of additional biorefineries to be built by 2030, the total additional installed capacity for
chemicals and materials
Develop regional by pathway by 2030 and the capital investment required for this
bioeconomy
level of strategies
deployment. This level of deployment is, as far as possible, the level of deployment
to be expected if all of the actions were completed according to the roadmaps.
Harmonise bioproducts’
sustainability requirements
with existing schemes
The outlook for deployment then forms the basis of the estimation of the potential EU
benefits including
Consider GHG
CCU in the reduction potential versus fossil comparators, local jobs creation
EU ETS

and increased raw material security.

Consider all biomass and land-using activities when setting strategies
DIRECTION
STRATEGIC

for each. For example, on circular economy, bioeconomy and food

Set strategic objectives for the biorefinery sector overall including

acceptable use of land and crops

Policy design to enable non crop/ low land use impact routes

685
For this pre-final report the by pathway roadmaps are shown in a different format that the roadmap common with
actions common to all pathways.

277
6.3 Chemical and material driven biorefinery roadmaps

In the following sub-sections the barriers and actions are described. These are separated
into barriers and actions relevant to all pathways, and those relevant to each pathway.

The barriers and actions are listed in order of importance as indicated by stakeholders in
the first virtual stakeholder workshop held in October 2020, and categorised by type
(e.g. economic).

It is also important to note that:

• Some barriers are common to all pathways, and so are introduced first.

• Some barriers are common to several of the pathways, and so are repeated in each
pathway section. However, one barrier may be critical for one pathway, but less
important for others, and so its description may vary between pathways.

• Many barriers require multiple actions to overcome them. Similarly, one action may
help to overcome multiple barriers for one or more pathways. For completeness,
this section sets out all barriers and actions for each pathway. In the later tasks
which develop roadmaps for each pathway, actions that address multiple barriers
and pathways are highlighted.

• Technical development needs are given for each pathway in WP 3, and so are not
repeated here unless they result in the need for an action beyond R&D or further
deployment e.g. the need to encourage organisations to work together.

• The actions shown in bold are shown on the roadmap infographic. If not bolded, no
separate chevron is shown as these actions are linked with the common actions
already. The infographics are provided to provide an overview of the roadmap
actions only.

BARRIERS AND ACTIONS COMMON TO ALL PATHWAYS

Economic

The main barrier to bio-based chemicals and materials deployment is economic: there is
a large gap between the market’s willingness to pay for these products and their production
costs in most cases. This is a result of no increased willingness to pay for renewable/low
carbon/bio chemicals and materials, low costs of the fossil-derived equivalents,
competition with biofuels markets, and high production costs of bioproducts. In addition,
EU biorefineries are likely to have higher costs than those outside the EU. This barrier was
seen in all the case studies in WP 3.

278
 Stakeholder type
Policy makers
Bio industry & associations
Chemical/material industry & Industry associations • Clear market based policy in place ​

EXPECTED STATUS
• Sustainability framework in
Academia & Research institutions operation​
NGOs & Civil societies Type of actions • 42 additional biorefineries across
Investment community Policy & regulation different pathways​
• Potential GHG savings of 3.5
Support for RD&D and scale up million tonnes ​CO2eq

Information and coordination

2020 2025 2030

Set EU sector targets for GHG

reduction in EU chemicals
production

Develop EU mandate for GHG Implement increasing EU mandate for GHG reduction in chemicals sold in the EU
reduction in chemicals sold
in the EU

Develop EU mandate for Implement EU mandate for bio/low GHG content for hard to recycle products
bio/low GHG content for hard
to recycle products

Ban sale of selected non-recycled fossil-based products and/or set a

reducing target for fossil material used

Chemical producers and users

set voluntary GHG reduction
commitments

Develop MS public procurement Implement MS public procurement standards specifying bio, recycled
standards specifying bio, recycled or CO2-based products
or CO2-based products

Tax fossil input to chemicals industry

ECONOMIC

Reform EU ETS to increase CO2 price

Develop Carbon Border Implement Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism

Adjustment Mechanism

Support investigation of optimal use of EU biomass feedstock

Conduct R&D focusing on cost reduction across all biorefinery pathways

through continuing activities such as Horizon Europe, Circular
Bio-based Europe and MS support

Establish partnerships to develop biorefineries on existing

industrial sites to reduce costs

Improve process economics by identifying connections between

different pathways and other industries

Expand biomass/waste feedstock databases to identify low cost resources

Develop regional bioeconomy

strategies

Harmonise bioproducts’
sustainability requirements
with existing schemes

Consider CCU in the EU ETS

Consider all biomass and land-using activities when setting strategies

DIRECTION
STRATEGIC

for each. For example, on circular economy, bioeconomy and food

Set strategic objectives for the biorefinery sector overall including

acceptable use of land and crops

Policy design to enable non crop/ low land use impact routes

279
 2020 2025 2030

Continue EU public co-financing for pilot/demonstration plants

Pilot plant data collection to help develop early stage TEAs and modelling

Reduce scaling up costs by making available/providing support

SCALE UP OF NEW

for shared facilities

TECHNOLOGIES

Ensure classification of biorefinery

projects under the EU’s
Sustainable Finance Taxonomy

Increase equity investment in companies

Implement grant/ loan scheme for feasibility studies

Additional support for new technologies such as sub-targets or subsidy for limited volumes of products from new pathways

Invest in enhancing the engineering know-how of academic research teams

Develop a standard Implement a standard for bio-based products’ sustainability

for bio-based products’
sustainability

Support from EU/ MSs for SMEs to comply with sustainability standards

Provide EU funding to Agree policy on

quantify risk of undegraded biodegradable bioplastics
compostable plastic residues
SUSTAINABILITY

Organise information campaigns

on GMMs used in bioprocesses

Develop bio-based product

labels

Early adoption of labelled products in highly visible markets

Establish bio-based
terminology for all products

Require publicly supported projects to assess sustainability impacts and communicate this transparently

Provide support for green hydrogen projects in biorefineries

R&D on European biomass resource potential

Provide funding for regional and local biomass resource assessments

FEEDSTOCK

Support more projects to develop tools/platforms to support biomass supply chains

Support establishment of biomass supply companies

Include crops for biorefineries in GM crop policy

Enhance targets for collecting and recycling wastes

Develop policy to align material classification as waste, residue or coproduct in all MSs

Implement EU-level matchmaking programme for companies

MARKET
ENTRY

Reduce REACH registration fee

for sustainable chemicals

Figure 115. Roadmap with actions common to all pathways

Barrier: Little willingness to pay for bio-content - Most consumers are willing to pay
little or no more for bio-based products, in particular for commodities (source: WP 2
(2020). There has yet been any EU-level demand side policy support that would create a
higher willingness to pay.

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 Action: Set EU level sector targets for GHG reduction in EU chemicals and
materials production to set a trajectory for reduction e.g. adopt CEFIC target for
net zero by 2050 in EU law, with interim years’ targets.

Action: Develop and implement increasing EU level mandate for GHG

reduction in chemicals and materials sold in the EU that could be met through
use of bio-based, recycled686, CO2-derived or otherwise lower lifecycle GHG content.
Note that this is preferable to a bio-based mandate only as it leaves it open to
companies to innovate to find the lowest cost GHG reduction options, which in some
cases may not be bio-based. This could be for volumes above 1 tonne as defined
by REACH. The obligation could be set at a company level, so that companies would
have flexibility to comply through reduction in some products first, rather than
mandating equal reductions across all products.

Action: Develop and implement an EU level mandate for bio-based/lower

lifecycle GHG emissions for hard to recycle products sold in the EU e.g.
coating, solvents, surfactants, lubricants.

Action: Ban sale of selected non-recycled fossil based products, in particular

those with short lifetime, to encourage bio-based, CO2-derived and recycled
products, as has been done with plastic bags in many countries and regions
worldwide. Could be set in the future to give time for the industry to ramp up.
Alternatively set a reducing target for the volume of fossil material used by
the sector (though this may be difficult to assess for imported products).

Action: Coordinated voluntary commitments from product users/brand

owners/chemicals and materials producers to use a specified renewable
content or achieve a minimum GHG reduction from the chemicals and materials
they use (which would also incentivise recycled and CO2-based content, but not be
limited to recycling as with some current commitments). This could build on the
Renewable Carbon Initiative687. This has the potential to be introduced faster than
an EU mandate, so could be encouraged while a mandate was in development, and
used to build experience with certification.

Action: Member State public procurement standards specifying only low

GHG products (e.g. achieved through use of bio-based, recycled or CO2-
based content) e.g. for use by public organisations. This also has the advantages
of demonstrating and publicising performance and use.

Action: improved labelling of bio-based products to encourage consumer demand

(see sustainability actions later in the text).

Barrier: Low cost of fossil equivalents – fossil chemicals and materials producers
benefit from economies of scale, commoditised low cost feedstocks and mature technology.
In addition, non-EU fossil-based producers can have low production costs as they do not
have to pay for CO2 emissions (source: WP 2 (2020))

Action: Tax fossil inputs to the chemicals and materials industry to

encourage biomass, CO2 and recycled input at EU or MS level.

Action: Reform the EU ETS so that fossil based chemicals and materials producers
pay more for the CO2 they emit.

686
Planned policy for recycled plastics is already expected as a result of the Plastic Strategy in 2018 - a levy on non-
recycled plastic waste (estimated to be EUR 0.8 per kg) if implemented in 2021. This is expected to increase
recycling rates. Source: European Commission. EU Plastics Strategy. 2018. Available online at :
https://ec.europa.eu/environment/waste/plastic_waste.htm
687
Renewable Carbon Initiative. nova-Institut GmbH. n.d. Available online at: https://renewable-carbon-initiative.com/

281
 Action: Develop and implement a Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism
(CBAM) at EU level.

Barrier: Competing EU policy support for biofuels and biomass heat and power
means they can outcompete the bio-based products sector for products (e.g. methanol,
ethanol) and biomass feedstocks.

Action: A range of types of policy support for bio-based products and other low
lifecycle GHG alternatives, as described under the above barrier, to ensure that they
can compete with fossil based products. Note, however that this does not mean
setting policies for bio-based products such that they have the same premium in
biofuels/energy and bio-based chemicals and materials markets: if the cost of GHG
saving in the bio-based chemicals and materials sector is lower (for example if
recycling is a cheaper option) then the biofuels/energy market may always
outcompete the bio-based chemicals and materials market.

Action: Further investigate the optimal use of EU biomass feedstock in terms

of sustainability (e.g. highest economy wide GHG savings), taking into account
environmental and social impacts, cascading uses, food and non-food applications.

Barrier: Bioproduct production costs are expected to be higher than those for
fossil equivalents in the long term, and actions are needed to minimise these

Action: R&D on all pathways to bring cost savings through more efficient
processes and/or larger scale, optimisation and integration and upgrading of
biomass side-streams to high value products. Specific technology development
needs are given in WP 3. There are many R&D support activities already underway
and planned, as discussed in WP 3, and listed below. This should include increasing
funding levels for these activities, ensuring increased financial contributions from
the private sector, and ensuring that both open calls and more directed activities
are maintained.

• Horizon Europe - covering fundamental and applied R&D, pilot projects,

demonstration and flagship projects and accompanying actions.

• Potential follow-up of the BBI-JU by the new EU Partnership Circular Bio-

based Europe (CBE), making available significant public-private budget to
support technology development, demonstration and market introduction.

• MS level R&D support through grants, networks, encouraging R&D in

industry e.g. through tax breaks.

Barrier: Limited integration of processing steps – limited integration of bioproduct

process steps (e.g. oil extraction and oleochemical production) or between bioprocesses
and other industries limits improved energy efficiency, reduced water use and reduced
waste generation. Note that this is not always possible because the primary processing for
imported raw material is done outside Europe (source: WP 3 Task3 (2020)).

Action: Decrease the CAPEX and OPEX of new biorefineries by developing

these on existing industrial sites where they can share existing
(operational or mothballed) infrastructure such as pipelines, storage
facilities, buildings etc. (source: October workshop part 1). This could be done
through funded programme by national and regional governments to identify and
form relationships between biorefinery technology developers/start-ups and
industrial complexes owners/operators to help promote the integration of
conversion processes into brownfield existing industrial sites. (source: WP 3 Task3
(2020)). This could speed up discussions between these parties compared with the
approach today involving multiple bilateral pitches between developers and site
owners. See WP 5 for details of locations of existing industrial sites in the EU.

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 Action: Bio-based materials and chemical industries to work together to identify
connections between different pathways (e.g. pathways A and B starch can be
converted to sugars, pathway C and G integration of the oil platform) and with
other industries to improve overall process economics (WP 3 Task3 (2020)).

Barrier: Lack of cost competitiveness for some EU biorefineries - due to higher

labour costs affecting CAPEX and OPEX, higher taxes, higher energy costs, and limited low-
cost biomass feedstocks compared to some other regions in the world (source: October
workshop part 1). Costs of feedstock produced in Europe are generally high compared to
other regions, related to scarcity of land, relatively high farming incomes, quota and tariffs,
and demonstration of the necessary environmental sustainability standards by farmers,
which requires complex and time-consuming procedures to demonstrate biomass
sustainability (WP 2). This is particular relevant for biorefineries producing larger volume
commodities, whilst those producing innovative, often lower volume and higher products
are less effected. Some actions have already been taken such as valorising protein sales,
but limited actions are possible here related to imported products, given the need to avoid
barriers to trade. Nevertheless, actions are possible to help EU biorefineries to produce at
the lowest cost:

Action: Support identification of low cost feedstock resources and facilitate

industrial symbiosis e.g. further develop EU feedstock databases (e.g. JRC-
ENSPRESO, S2BIOM) to provide information on waste streams (e.g. manure,
sewage sludge, tallow, waste wood etc..) from all major sectors at a local level that
could be low cost feedstock for chemicals and materials and energy.

Action: Develop regional bioeconomy strategies that can bring lower costs and
boost rural deployment of biorefineries through identifying industrial sites,
feedstock availability, shared infrastructure, enabling skills development. For
example, this has been the focus of the BIOEAST project (www.bioeast.eu),
supplemented by JRC work.

Action: Harmonisation of sustainability requirements developed for

bioproducts (see below) with existing standards and schemes as far as
possible to reduce compliance costs e.g. biofuels/bioenergy sustainability
requirements and certification in RED II, woody biomass-based industries
management schemes.

Barrier: Inability to valorise carbon storage in materials - The EU ETS allows for the
capture of CO2 to be included. However, the use of CO2 in further processes and products
(Carbon Capture and Utilisation, CCU) is not recognised in the current (third period) EU
ETS. This also affects the chemical utilisation of CO2 emitted from renewable carbon
sources. This is a barrier for products produced in biorefineries, made from CO2. (source:
WP 2 (2020))

Action: Consider allowing CO2 use in further processes and products

(Carbon Capture and Utilisation, CCU) to be recognised in the current (third
period) EU ETS.

Strategic direction

Whilst the barriers to each pathway have been considered separately, there are some
barriers to which the solution is to focus more effort in terms of policy support or RD&D on
another pathway with lower impacts. Similarly, there may be a need for prioritisation
between uses of land or biomass between multiple end use sectors where resources are
scarce and/or shared.

Barrier: Lack of strategic direction covering all areas affecting bioproducts –

although there are many existing strategies and policies, for example on biofuels,
bioeconomy, circular economy and Farm to Fork strategy, renewable energy, these can

283
overlap and conflict, rather than always considering bioproducts alongside other biomass
and land uses.

Action: Consider all biomass and land-using activities when setting

strategies for each, rather than focusing on one area.

Barrier: Lower environmental impacts are achievable via pathways that are
generally more expensive and at an earlier stage of commercialisation - pathways
using non-food/feed competing biomass can have lower environmental impacts, but are
generally more expensive and at an earlier stage of commercialisation. This means that
policies put in place to support bioproducts in general may be met by increasing supply of
pathways A-C, with lower costs but higher associated impacts, rather than bringing other
routes to commercialisation.

Actions: Consideration of strategic objectives for the biorefinery sector

overall, including agreement on acceptable levels of use of land and crops
and the interaction of this demand with other sectors.

Actions: Policy design to enable non crop/ low land use impact routes,
enabling secondary feedstocks. See other actions on non-food/feed
pathways.

Scale up of new technologies

Achieving scale up of new bioproduct conversion technologies is challenging, because of

the level of investment required in plants, coupled with technology and market risk
hindering financing. The high production cost from early plants at sub-commercial scale is
also even higher than from commercial plants, exacerbating the economic barriers above.
In addition, there is a lack of skills in some areas.

Barrier: Validation of new technologies at demonstration and pre-commercial

scale is expensive. It is difficult for biorefineries to attract investment for these plants.
This is a major bottleneck in commercialisation of new technologies. (source: WP 2 (2020),
WP 3 Task3 (2020))

Action: EU level public co-financing for pilot/demonstration plants through

continued initiatives for public-private partnerships projects (e.g. new EU
Partnership Circular Bio-based Europe (CBE)), with increased budgets. (source: WP
3 Task3 (2020)). This should facilitate partnerships between large players with
access to capital and project development experience and earlier stage bioproduct
conversion technology developers, to give confidence to other investors that a
technology has been validated, and showing that there is interest from the market.

Action: Validate techno-economic modelling using data from pilot plants,

to generate empirical rules of thumb688 which can be disseminated to facilitate
learning and understanding on scale up and inform the market on prospective costs
of scale up plants for different pathways to help with commercial scale up. (source:
WP 3 Task3 (2020))

Action: Maintain opportunities for/provide support for shared facilities to

enable reduced costs of scale up steps, such as the Bio Base Europe Pilot Plant,
shared gasification facilities.

688
See for example: Antal et al. Rules of Thumb (Empirical Rules) for the Biomass Utilization by Thermochemical
Conversion. Journal of the Japan Institute of Energy, 93, 684-702. 2014. Available online at:
https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/ee89/6e67cb2bfa5c623c18ef675343f8687821e0.pdf

284
 Action: Ensure that biorefinery projects are adequately classified under the
EU’s Sustainable Finance Taxonomy689. The Taxonomy covers several areas
related to biorefineries including agriculture and forestry, and manufacture of
chemicals and plastics. Within these, restrictions are set for each activity, such as
avoidance of use of high carbon stock land, the need for farm sustainability plans
and forest management plans, and for third-party verified GHG saving requirements
for chemicals compared with their fossil equivalents. Note that the Draft Act also
states that food or feed crops may not be used as bio-based feedstock for the
manufacture of organic basic chemicals or of plastic in primary form under the
Taxonomy, so the Taxonomy would support only non-food/feed pathways D-K.
Overall, the requirements for financing need to be carefully considered to ensure
sustainability without unnecessarily restricting biorefinery development.

Barrier: Technology developers’ lack of access to funding for plant feasibility

studies. In order to attract investment to projects, site identification, feedstock
assessment and pre-feasibility studies are needed, which can be expensive.

Action: Increased equity investment, for example through the EC and EIB
European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF)690

Action: Grant or loan scheme for feasibility studies for projects to developers
to identify sites and feedstocks and attract investment, at EU or MS level.

Barrier: High bioproduct production costs today due to earlier stage of technology
development than fossil routes and many plants operating at below their commercial scale.
Bringing down these costs would help close the gap between production cost and the
market’s willingness to pay. (source: WP 3 Task3 (2020)). In addition to the actions to
overcome long term economic barriers above, additional time limited actions are needed
to support near term development

Action: Additional support for new technologies within any market based
policy, such as sub-targets for less commercialised and/or more sustainable
technologies.

Action: Subsidy for limited volumes of products from new pathways from
projects including the producer and end user (e.g. plastic end user agrees to use
new bioplastic which costs 1.5x the incumbent. Subsidy covers all or a proportion
of the increased cost for the first 10 years.)

Action: Support for projects (as above)

Barrier: Academic research teams have limited engineering know-how required

for scale-up (source: WP 2 (2020), WP 3 Task3 (2020))

Action: Continue funding collaboration between research and engineering

teams and industry players through the R&D actions set out in the economic
barriers section (source: WP 3 Task3 (2020))

Barrier: Challenges in financing commercial scale projects related to uncertainty

around policy and technology risk. Biorefineries have a 20+ year lifetime and financing of
projects is likely to include ~10 year payback period. Venture capital, private equity or

689
European Commission. Sustainable finance – EU classification system for green investments. Draft regulation and
annexes for EU taxonomy for sustainable activities. 2020. Available online at: https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-
regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/12302-Climate-change-mitigation-and-adaptation-taxonomy#ISC_WORKFLOW
690
European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF). N.d. Available online at: https://www.ecbf.vc/ and
Tg. EIB and EC launch circular bioeconomy fund. European Biotechnology. 2020. Available online at: https://european-
biotechnology.com/up-to-date/latest-news/news/eib-and-ec-launch-circular-bioeconomy-fund.html

285
strategic investors will not make significant investments without policy certainty. If there
is uncertainty around policy then projects are perceived as more risky.

Action: Any of the new policies presented as Actions here should have a 10+ year
time horizon. Sustainability aspects should have a pre-announced review periods.

Action: Increased equity investment and loans, for example through the EC and
EIB European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF)691

Sustainability

The main advantage of bio-based chemicals and materials lies in their environmental
benefits (such as GHG emissions reductions). In order for these benefits to be valued, they
need to be measured and broadly understood.

Barrier: Lack of evidence on the sustainability benefits of bioproducts –

information on sustainability is needed for every bioproduct to demonstrate value and
avoid sustainability impacts. Some bioproducts may have low GHG savings or even GHG
increases compared with fossil products depending on the feedstocks and pathways used.
Uncertainty over this performance was seen as a barrier in case studies, for example for
thermoplastic starch (WP 2 & WP 3). There is also concern over the impact of bio-based
products on the recyclability of waste streams. Establishing where benefits exist is essential
where public support is given, but would also be important in building end user and
consumer confidence in the absence of policy support. As this evidence requirement is
more stringent than for fossil equivalents, this adds to the cost differential between them,
and fulfilling this requirements could be a particular burden for SMEs. (source: WP 3 Task3
(2020), WP 2 (2020) p.14)

Action: Develop and implement a common EU level standard for assessing,

verifying and communicating on environmental sustainability of bio-based
products including, as a minimum, lifecycle GHG savings and environmental
sustainability, as in RED II for biomass feedstocks for fuels, heat and power. This
would consist of methodology and standard development, identification of
certification bodies, and guidance on communication e.g. labelling. The standard
could cover bio-based products alone, or could include other lower GHG options. It
would build on previous activities in this area such as the work of CEN/TC 411 on
bio-based products, which developed standards developed a series of horizontal
standards692, including addressing sustainability, lifecycle assessment, labelling and
terminology, which cover many of these areas but do not yet include aspects such
as assessment methods and thresholds that would be needed to make claims or
underpin a policy mechanism, and have not had broad multistakeholder input. It
could also build on Product Environmental Footprints (PEF) which have been piloted
and are now in a transition phase with methodologies and product category rules
being further developed693. This action should consider other existing standards that
have already been developed such as the Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials’
Advanced Products standard which require at least a 10% GHG saving.

Action: EU or MSs to provide support for SMEs to comply with the standards
above, for example to carry out LCAs, such as subsidised provision of LCA studies,
development of simplified LCA tools for ongoing use in-house, access to training.

691
European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF). N.d. Available online at: https://www.ecbf.vc/ and
Tg. EIB and EC launch circular bioeconomy fund. European Biotechnology. 2020. Available online at: https://european-
biotechnology.com/up-to-date/latest-news/news/eib-and-ec-launch-circular-bioeconomy-fund.html
692
CEN/TC 411 - Bio-based products. Available online at: https://standards.cen.eu/dyn/www/f?p=204:32:0::::
FSP_ORG_ID,FSP_LANG_ID:874780,25&cs=1D63BAA7EABE56EB230DDAA05D6F2CE70
693
European Commission. The Environmental Footprint transition phase. 2019. Available online at:
https://ec.europa.eu/environment/eussd/smgp/ef_transition.htm

286
 Action: EU funding for a study to quantify the risk that undegraded
compostable plastic residues in compost or digestate. This will help determine
whether and further policy should be agreed on biodegradable bioplastics.694

Action: Organise information campaigns to raise awareness and clarify

misconceptions of GMMs used in bioprocesses, given that there is existing EU
legislation covering their use, and they can increase product yield, ability to use
different feedstocks and to generate a larger portfolio of products. (source: WP
2 (2020))

Barrier: Lack of visibility of the benefits of bio-based products - the concept of “bio-
based” is perceived as poor marketing term. Some customers associate “bio-based” with
having a lower quality and/or a higher price. For producers and consumers (and some
policy makers) alike, being bio-based is (in itself) not or no longer a fully convincing sale
argument (source: WP 2 (2020)). Terminology (e.g. “bio-based”, “biodegradable”) used
can be confusing for consumers: e.g. “biolubricant” can refer to products derived from
renewable sources or to a biodegradable lubricant derived from petroleum-based sources.

Action: Develop bio-based product labels or other instruments to communicate

the benefits of bio-based products to public procurers and consumers, based on the
standards above (source: WP 3 Task3 (2020)).

Action: Early adoption of labelled products in highly visible markets such as

through public procurement, marketing by end-users in high profile products.

Action: Establish an agreed terminology within/alongside the standards

above, which covers all products, making these protected terms (such as with
the label ‘organic’ within EU food policy) so that they cannot be incorrectly applied.

Action: Ensure that any publicly supported projects assess sustainability

impacts fully, and communicate transparently about sustainability
performance, to increase publicly available information and policymaker and
investor confidence.

Barrier: Fossil hydrogen and derivatives use in several pathways limits the GHG
reduction potential of these biorefinery pathways - Fossil hydrogen is used in
several pathways, for example to produce propylene glycol, giving lower GHG
benefits than would be achieved using green hydrogen.

Action: Quantify, regulate and communicate the benefits of lower GHG hydrogen
use through the actions on sustainability standards and communication set out
above.

Action: Support for green hydrogen projects at biorefineries, for example

through the Innovation Fund, which is expected to support other hydrogen projects
and policy developed from the EU’s ‘A hydrogen strategy for a climate-neutral
Europe’.

Feedstock

Barrier: Concern over biomass supply potential. All bio-based product pathways, to
varying degrees, have near-term concerns about feedstock supply and mid-long term
concerns over feedstock availability (source: WP 2 (2020), WP 3 Task3 (2020)). In the
near term, identification of locations for plants based on feedstock availability can be time
consuming, in particular assessing competition from other demands, and before plants are

694
European Commission. Relevance of biodegradable and compostable consumer plastic products and packaging in a
circular economy. 2020. Available online at: https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/3fde3279-
77af-11ea-a07e-01aa75ed71a1

287
built it is essential to secure reliable supplies. In the mid-long term, all biomass feedstocks
have resource limits, and the uncertainty over these limits is in itself a barrier to
policymaker action and investor confidence in bioproducts. As these barriers, and the
actions to overcome them are specific to the different pathways, they are covered in the
pathway-specific sections. However, there are some actions that could benefit all
pathways:

Action: Further research and information provision on biomass resource

potential across Europe, including identifying areas of high feedstock density or
potential, and in particular sources that have low competition with food/feed
(source: WP 2 (2020)). This is needed so that overall regional potential and impacts
can be assessed, alongside other biomass uses.

Action: Funding for consistent regional and local biomass resource

assessments, including all feedstock types, so that regions can identify local
resources that could be used for bioproducts, including supply chain flexibility
options, and attract projects on this basis. This should take into account existing
competing uses, which are difficult to identify in projects with a wider geographical
scope, and are crucial to determining where potential exists.

Action: Continue support for projects supporting biomass supply chains

such as the EU project Enabling695, which is working on a biomass trade
platform, tools and methodologies for collaboration and knowledge transfer,
creation of spaces for sharing best practices, brokering innovation and providing
stakeholders with coaching and guidance.

Action: Support establishment of biomass and waste supply companies.

This entity would work with technology developers and/or resource holders to find
suitable sites, and guarantee feedstock supply and quality, serving bioproduct, fuel
and energy industries.

Action: Consider crops for biorefineries when considering the regulation of

GM crops in general, to establish whether there are opportunities with
acceptably low risks. (source: WP 2 (2020))

Barrier: The availability of secondary biomass feedstocks and economics of using

these are unclear. The Waste Framework Directive (WFD) was established in 2008, and
was updated in 2018. However, sometimes non-uniform classification of materials as
waste, residue, or coproduct, which leads to loopholes that cannot be addressed by national
legislation alone. This can result in problems with end-of-life treatment, how the biorefinery
is characterised (as waste treatment facility or production facility), and whether the final
products can be classified as ‘product’ or ‘waste’.

Action: increase the availability and reduce costs of secondary biomass feedstocks
through the EU Circular Economy Package (CEP) by supporting and enhancing
targets for recycling wood packaging, an obligation to collect biowaste
separately, food waste collection and bioplastics collection and recycling.

Action: develop policy to align the classification of materials as waste,

residue or coproduct in all MSs that support the use of secondary biomass
feedstocks for pathways D-K.

695
ENABLING - Enhance New Approaches in Bio-based Local Innovation Networks for Growth. H2020. N.d. Available
online at: https://www.enabling-project.com/

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Market entry

Biorefineries products are diverse and used in multiple markets, some of these have high
barriers to entry.

Barrier: Difficulties entering multiple markets - Multiple products that serve multiple
markets requires a divided focus of biorefineries, though increases the robustness of the
business model. It is difficult to enter existing markets due to competition, and for
customers to change suppliers (source: WP 2 (2020))

Action: Implement an EU-level matchmaking programme matching

companies in different sectors and parts of the value chain with each other (e.g.
technology developers with conventional chemical/materials companies).

Barrier: Complicated and costly procedures for bioproducts approval – The REACH
requirement to register new chemical substances manufactured or imported in quantities
of 1 tonne or more per year is a significant barrier for innovative biorefinery products.
Registration procedures are both time consuming and costly.

Action: REACH registration fee reduction and fast-tracked procedure for

chemicals that deliver GHG or other environmental benefits.

Technical performance of products

The technical performance of bio-based chemicals and materials can be different from and
in some cases lower than the fossil products they are substituting. It is also costly and
takes significant time to prove the performance of new products. This is addressed in WP
3, with the actions needed being covered elsewhere i.e. continued RD&D support, including
collaborations between private and public players.

PATHWAY SPECIFIC ROADMAPS

A. One platform (C6 sugars) biorefinery using sugar crops

This pathway operates at commercial scale today for production of some products in and
outside the EU (bioethanol and bio-based ethylene, ethylene oxide, mono ethylene glycol
(MEG), lactic acid and sorbitol). Barriers to increased production from this pathway, of
these products and of more novel options, are principally those relevant to all pathways:
in particular overcoming the economic barrier to greater demand. Nevertheless, there are
other actions that could further support this pathway specifically: technical improvements
for particular products that could reduce costs or increase potential markets. In addition,
whilst feedstock supply chains are well established, actions are needed to overcome
continued concerns over feedstock availability and impacts.

289
290
Figure 116. Pathway A roadmap

291
Economic

Barrier: Lack of diversification of by-products - Insufficient diversification of by

products and intermediate products like sugar beet residues and bagasse, into added
value secondary products. Need to develop added value secondary products (e.g. sugar
beet pulp or DDGS to food additives, chemicals or materials, use of CO2) (source: WP 3
Task3 (2020),common to pathways A, B, C)

Action: Joint action between industry players to increase the visibility of by

products and secondary products to potential users in other market sectors,
through a platform coordinated by industry bodies.

Feedstock

Barrier: Limited availability of sugar feedstock from domestic EU production – concern over
the impacts of use of sugar crops for bioproducts and biofuels as a result of competition
for feedstock and land with food production. Some concern over indirect land use impacts.
As a result, continued uncertainty over the amount of sugar feedstock that can be used
sustainably for bioproducts and biofuels. (source: BIO TIC (2015), p.10, (related to case
study products lactic acid and PLA and acetic acid (pathway A) common to pathways A, B,
C, Source WP 3 Task 4)

Action: Consideration of the potential demands of the biochemicals sector for

sugars in agricultural policy and EU sugar market policy.

Action: Consideration of the potential demands of the biochemicals sector for

sugars alongside use for biofuels, when assessing impacts of non-food sugar
use, such as indirect land use change.

Action: Assess the potential for use of sugar beet production and ethanol plants
currently dedicated to biofuels production in the EU for biochemicals production, based
on declining gasoline demand696, and develop targeted action plans to enable
transition of these crops and/or facilities to biochemicals. This could include
developing dehydration plants to produce ethylene that could be integrated into the
European ethylene pipeline network.

B. One platform (starch) biorefinery using starch crops

As with pathway A, this pathway operates at commercial scale today for production of
some products (bioethanol, starches, polyols, acids). Barriers to increased production from
this pathway, of these products and of more novel options, are principally those relevant
to all pathways: in particular overcoming the economic barrier to greater demand.
Nevertheless, there are other actions that could further support this pathway specifically:
technical improvements for particular products that could reduce costs or increase potential
markets. In addition, whilst feedstock supply chains are well established, actions are
needed to overcome continued concerns over feedstock availability and impacts.

696
The level of electrification as well as the blending levels, ethanol’s use as a sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and
availability and cost of Brazilian and US ethanol imports are also major factors here

292
293
Figure 117. Pathway B roadmap

294
Economic

Barrier: Lack of diversification of by-products - Insufficient diversification of by

products and intermediate products, into added value secondary products. Need to
develop added value secondary products (e.g. DDGS to food additives, chemicals or
materials) (source: WP 3 Task3 (2020),common to pathways A, B, C).

Action: Joint action between industry players to increase the visibility of by

products and secondary products to potential users in other market sectors,
through a platform coordinated by industry bodies.

Feedstock

Barrier: Limited availability of starch feedstock from domestic EU production –

concern over the impacts of use of starch crops (grains, potatoes) for bioproducts and
biofuels as a result of competition for feedstock and land with food production. Some
concern over indirect land use impacts. As a result, continued uncertainty over the amount
of starch feedstock that can be used sustainably for bioproducts and biofuels. (source:
related to case study acetic acid (chemical solvent), product thermoplastic starch
(chemical polymers), pathway B only, WP 3 Task 4 (2020)).

Action: Consideration of the potential demands of the bio-based chemicals and

materials sector for starch in agricultural policy.

Action: Consideration of the potential demands of the bio-based chemicals and

materials sector for starch alongside use for biofuels, when assessing impacts
of non-food starch use, such as indirect land use change.

Action: Assess the potential for use of starch currently dedicated to biofuels production
in the EU for bio-based chemicals and materials production, based on declining gasoline
demand, and develop targeted action plans to enable transition of these crops
and/or facilities to biochemicals.

C. One platform (oil) biorefinery using oil crops, wastes and residues

As with pathways A and B, this pathway operates at commercial scale today. However the
main barrier to continued or increased production from this pathway is feedstock
sustainability and availability, as well as sustainability of the alkoxylation agent used if
surfactants are produced (although this is largely fossil ethylene oxide and not included in
this analysis). Oils have a more limited supply than feedstocks for most other pathways
and increasing competition from food and fuel, as well as the potential for significant
environmental impacts in some cases. Currently, fossil ethylene oxide is the most widely
used alkoxylation agent therefore only a proportion of the surfactants produced via this
pathway are bio-based.

295
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Figure 118. Pathway C roadmap

297
Barrier: Environmental impacts of oil crop cultivation – direct and indirect impacts
of oil crop cultivation such as deforestation and other land use changes with high GHG and
biodiversity impacts, as well as cultivation impacts such as fertiliser use, in particular for
oils produced outside the EU. (source: related to case study product propylene glycol
(chemical additive), WP 3 Task 4 (2020)).

Action: Clarify the policy position on use of crop oils for bioproducts, and consider
restriction of use of feedstocks with high direct and/or indirect impacts in
bioproducts sold in the EU, analogous to the phase out of high ILUC crops in RED
II for biofuels and bioenergy697, the proposed EU restriction on deforestation698, or
the proposed UK ban on large businesses using commodities with forest risk
(those that have not been produced in accordance with relevant laws in the
country where they are grown)699. It is important to make sure that the same
policies are used across all bio-based products rather than only covering some.

Action: Promote voluntary commitments from producers and end users to avoid
oil crops with high impacts, in particular in the interim before any other measures
considered above are introduced.

Action: Sustainability criteria and certification for bioproducts sold in the EU, as
described under actions common to all pathways. A similar or harmonised
approach could be taken to that used under RED II for biofuels. This would include
a GHG savings threshold and land and woody biomass from forest-based
industries management related criteria, and a certification system.

Feedstock

Barrier: Strong competition for oils with the food and biofuels industries – leading to
feedstock supply and price uncertainty, potential for fraud in waste oils supply chains, and
indirect environmental impacts, as above.

Action: Consideration of the potential demands of the biochemicals sector for oils
in agricultural policy

Action: Support or mandate waste oils and fats collection at a local level to
maximise availability of the resource

Action: Further develop EU databases to provide information on waste oils

and fats from all major sectors at a local level that could be low cost
feedstocks for chemicals and materials and energy

Action: Further investigate the potential for crops which do not lead to additional
land demand, in parallel with work done on this area for biofuels700, such as
intermediate crops

697
European Commission. Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/807 of 13 March 2019 on the determination of
high ILUC-risk feedstock [..] and the certification of low ILUC risk biofuels, bioliquids and biomass fuels. 2019.
Available online at: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32019R0807&from=EN and
European Commission. Report on the status of production expansion of relevant food and feed crops worldwide. 2019.
Available online at: https://ec.europa.eu/transparency/regdoc/rep/1/2019/EN/COM-2019-142-F1-EN-MAIN-PART-
1.PDF
698
European Parliament. Legislation with binding measures needed to stop EU-driven global deforestation. 2020.
Available online at: https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/press-room/20201016IPR89560/legislation-with-
binding-measures-needed-to-stop-eu-driven-global-deforestation
699
DEFRA. Due diligence on forest risk commodities. 2020. Available online at: https://consult.defra.gov.uk/eu/due-
diligence-on-forest-risk-commodities/
700
As above

298
Economic

Barrier: Few biorefineries have optimised process integration - Primary refining (oil
extraction from crops) is generally separated from secondary refining, but there has been
a recent trend towards integrated systems (BMFM (2018), p.82)

Action: Oleochemical and surfactant producers to further develop integrated

biorefinery sites at existing sites in the EU vegetable and waste oils/fats
processing industry. Aim to make integrated systems the standard for new
installations (BMFM (2018), p.82)

D. Two-platform (pulp and spent liquor) biorefinery using wood

This pathway is in commercial operation today, centred around existing pulping processes
mainly using wood chip residues from saw mills and thinning residues from forest
management, and producing a wide range of products. Barriers and actions relate to
increasing the product portfolio to improve profitability, ensuring a market for all forestry
wood-based products to enable increased volumes of cascading uses to enable bioproduct
deployment at scale, and process improvement to improve sustainability.

299
300
Figure 119. Pathway D roadmap

301
Feedstock

Barrier: Large scale increases in the production of high-value bio-based

chemicals and biomaterials from the forest can be limited by the demand for other
applications, including forestry products, bioenergy and biofuels. By-product
chemicals and materials such as acetic acid and methanol from forest -based biorefineries
account for a small share of the overall supply for these markets, while the materials from
hemicellulose, crude tall oil, various solvents, lignin, resins, various microfibrillated
cellulose and other fibres provide important input to their related market sectors already
compensating some maturing core business areas. The feedstock (wood chips, pulpwood)
for biorefineries to produce these is limited by the demand for saw logs used for
construction, furniture, panel and wood packaging industry in Europe and globally. It is
also dependent on the demand for pulp products such as paper, board and textile fibres.

Action: Supportive EU and national policy and design guidance for other
woody biomass from wood-based industries products with GHG benefits, in
particular increased use of wood in construction to give carbon storage, whilst
creating more feedstock for bio-based products through a cascading use principle.

Action: Support the use of sustainable bio-based textile fibres from forest
wood-based biorefineries (e.g. lyocell, cellulose acetate, microfibrillated
cellulose fibres, new regenerative fibres etc..) through the Textile Strategy which is
expected to be published in 2021.

Barrier: Supply chains for all woody biomass from forest-based industries
products are not well established in some regions, meaning that the full potential of
these feedstocks is not realised. This includes the BIOEAST region where in several
countries (e.g. Lithuania) have large woody biomass from forest-based industries
resources but lack “smart, value-adding sustainable value-chains and between their
components a bioeconomy strategy”.701 Fragmentation of forest management across
different bodies (e.g. state, large companies, cooperatives, individuals) can make it difficult
to establish supply chains due to differences in priorities and motivations.

Action: Continued promotion of and knowledge sharing in sustainable wood

from forest-based industries management practices between governments,
private forest owners and NGOs

Action: Continued knowledge sharing on cascading uses of woody biomass

from forest-based industries products

Action: R&D in technology for collection and pre-processing (e.g. densification), as

well as funding for demonstration/early commercial projects, as described in WP 3,
which would be supported by the R&D actions covered in the common economic
barriers section.

Economic

Barrier: Bio-based acetic acid is currently not cost competitive – as with many
products considered here, acetic acid from bio routes is currently not cost competitive.
However, there is the potential to use acetic acid to produce cellulose acetate and
acetylated wood MDF panels, both of which use other woody biomass from forest-based
industries sector products. This combined offering could improve overall economics. New
markets for cellulose acetate are needed, given the declining demand from cigarette filters.

701
Piotrowski, S., Dammer, L. State of play of central and eastern Europe’s bioeconomies. nova-Institute GmbH.
2018. Available online at: https://scar-europe.org/images/SCAR-Documents/Reports_outcomes_studies/BSW2_18-
11-22_State-of-play-of-central-and-eastern-Europes-bioeconomies.pdf

302
(related to case study product acetic acid (chemical solvent), common to pathways A, B,
D, I, WP 3 Task 4 (2020))

Action: Market study by the woody biomass from forest-based industries

sector on acetic acid applications that also use woody biomass-based products,
including assessing sustainability performance

Sustainability

Barrier: Chemicals and materials used in woody biomass-based biorefineries are

consumed in large volumes and are primarily fossil based. Hydrogen peroxide
(bleaching chemical) is primarily produced from fossil hydrogen and caustic soda (used in
pulp production and to produce viscose fibres) is produced by the chloralkali process from
electricity.

Action: Use lower carbon hydrogen to produce hydrogen peroxide (e.g. green
hydrogen) – see common actions. Note: there are also electrochemical based routes
direct to hydrogen peroxide under development (e.g. HPNow).

Action: Introduce policy to ensure that all chloralkali production (chlorine

and caustic soda production) in the EU is produced using renewable
electricity. This should be implemented with the CBAM to maintain
competitiveness of the European chloralkali industry.

Action: Support the use of sustainable textile fibres from woody biomass-based
biorefineries (e.g. lyocell, cellulose acetate microfibrillated cellulose fibres, new
regenerative fibres etc..) through the Textile Strategy which is expected to be
published in 2021.

Barrier: Existing knowledge gap on the issues related to health and safety of
micro-fibrillated cellulose - Limited knowledge on long term health risk (e.g. exposure
to dust and fine particles) and limited initiatives for environmental regulation of materials.
(source: related to case study product Micro-fibrillated cellulose MFC (materials fibres),
pathway D only, WP 3 Task 4 (2020))

Action: Research on health and environmental impacts of MFC.

Barrier: Continued uncertainty over the sustainable rate of removal for forestry
residues, and their quality varies significantly, meaning re-processing may be required.

Action: Agree standard approaches to sustainable use of forestry residues

that help forest managers to choose suitable harvesting methods702.

E. Three platform (C5 sugars, C6 sugars and lignin) biorefinery using

lignocellulosic biomass

Parts of this pathway are at commercial scale, and there are a very small number of first
commercial plants producing ethanol primarily for fuel globally. Production of other
chemicals and materials is at demonstration stage, and utilisation of lignin for chemicals
and materials at research stage. Important barriers and actions are therefore related to:

702
See for example forest harvesting guidelines for the Netherlands that helps forest managers to choose suitable
harvesting methods. Source: de Vries, W., de Jong, J.J., Kros, J., Spijker, J., H. Het effect van houtoogst op
nutrientenbalansen in bossen op zandgronden. Onderbouwing van een adviessysteem. Wageningen, Wageningen
Environmental Research, Rapport 2923, 2019. Available online at: https://edepot.wur.nl/470548

303
• creating a market for products from this pathway, in particular with additional
support/targets for products that compete with those produced from C6 sugars from
sugar and starch crops as defined in the actions for all pathways

• achieving cost reduction through both process efficiency improvement (pre-

treatment, fermentation and downstream processing) and further scale up and
learning by doing, which requires investment in further plants

• identifying and increasing supply of sustainable feedstocks, and continued RD&D on

new products.

304
305
Figure 120. Pathway E roadmap

306
Scale up

Barrier: Technology risk deters investors in commercial scale plants – recent high
profile project failures in this pathway for fuels have added to the perceived technology
risk by investors, which, coupled with high capex for these plants, makes financing difficult.
Potential investors or licensees may wait until a plant has been built and operated for a
sufficient period of time in order to de-risk investment, slowing ramp up. The presence of
co-investors is key in giving additional confidence, given that these existing investors will
have already carried out their own technical and commercial due diligence, and are
comfortable with the risks identified.

Action: Encourage partnerships between established technology companies and

new market entrants to give assurance of technology performance (e.g. this
could be supported by activities by clusters of companies such as the World
Economic Forum’s Low Low-Carbon Emitting Technologies in the Chemical
Industry703).

Action: Establish insurance schemes for new technologies704 which assess

technology performance, projected financial performance and risk.

Action: Technology validation by trusted organisations, for example through

equity investment through the European Circular Bioeconomy Fund launched by the
EC and EIB705.

Barrier: Policy uncertainty deters investors in commercial scale plants - Investors

in this pathway for fuels are concerned over the potential for demand reduction in fuels as
a result of decrease in gasoline demand with vehicle electrification. A clear pathway to
increased use in other markets, such as chemicals and materials, would help to strengthen
their investment case, and ensure that overall this pathway is more widely commercialised.

Action: Define clear market based policies for bioproducts in the EU, including
additional support for pathways like this one (based on non-food/feed feedstocks
and at an earlier stage of commercialisation) as defined in the actions for all
pathways.

Action: Consider the ethanol output from plants planned for biofuels production
alongside ethanol from pathway A and B when developing targeted action plans to
enable transition of these crops and/or facilities to biochemicals and aviation fuel
(see pathway A and B). This could include developing dehydration plants to produce
ethylene that could be integrated into the European ethylene pipeline network.

Feedstock

Barrier: Uncertainty over the potential for cellulosic energy crops in Europe –
whilst this pathway can use other feedstocks in the near term, such as agricultural residues
and wood, the deployment potential would be increased considerably by the ability to use
cellulosic non-food crops such as short rotation coppice willow, and grasses such as
miscanthus. The potential for sustainable cultivation of these crops in Europe with low land
use impacts is uncertain, with this hindering further deployment which in itself would bring
more evidence on yields and impacts and reduce the uncertainty. There is also further
potential for cost reduction in cultivation and harvesting of these crops.

703
World Economic Forum. Collaborative Innovation for Low-Carbon Emitting Technologies in the Chemical Industry.
N.d. Available online at: https://www.weforum.org/projects/collaborative-innovation-for-low-carbon-emitting-
technologies-in-the-chemical-industry
704
E.g. analogous to New Energy Risk. Source: New Energy Risk. About us. 2021. Available online at:
https://newenergyrisk.com/about/
705
European Commission. European Circular Bioeconomy Fund. 2020. Available online at: https://european-
biotechnology.com/up-to-date/latest-news/news/eib-and-ec-launch-circular-bioeconomy-fund.html

307
 Action: Further RD&D on crop breeding for cellulosic non-food crops to
improve yields, improve resistance to weeds and pests, improve water efficiency
and drought tolerance, and ability to grow on marginal lands (WP 2 (2020)). Seed
based planting could also lower the cost of miscanthus production.

Action: Continue studies to identify land suitable for non-food crop

cultivation in Europe, alongside land suitable for afforestation. Support and
exploit the bioeconomy potential of rural areas in Central and Eastern Europe
(CEE).4 CEE region requires innovation, technology and infrastructure to increase
biomass productivity in a sustainable way (source: WP 3 Task3 (2020), p.19).

Barrier: Lack of established supply chains for some feedstocks and regions -
supply chain logistics and required quality of feedstocks dictates infrastructure investment
requirements (also feedstock handling, e.g. issues with baling, etc.). Some supply chains
for lignocellulosic material already exist (e.g. wheat straw supply to power plants) but in
some areas supply chains may need to be developed from scratch (e.g. non-food crops).
Biomass supply can be limited by seasonality, poor infrastructure of (limitations on biomass
imports, storage and mobility), low quality and cost (WP 3 Task 3 (2020)).

Action: See common actions: support supply chain companies e.g. originators,
aggregators, and biomass supply companies and continue support for projects
supporting biomass supply chains.

F. Two-platform (organic fibres and organic juice) biorefinery using green

biomass

Use of green biomass for fibres and biogas via AD of the juice is demonstrated at
commercial scale, whilst other options for using the fibres and juice are at demonstration
or research stage. Actions to overcome economic barriers and scale up barriers to all
pathways would benefit this pathway significantly, in particular through providing revenue
to companies active in the commercial scale routes that can be invested in product
diversification. This can also be achieved through further supported R&D on these products.
As this pathway can use dedicated biomass crops, as well as residues, it is particularly
important to ensure feedstock sustainability.

The barriers to this pathway will be addressed through the actions set out in the common
barriers and actions section, and so no separate roadmap is given.

G. Two-platform (oil and biogas) biorefinery using aquatic biomass

This pathway is at the research and pilot stage, with actions primarily related to further
R&D to better characterise the whole pathway, improve performance, and progress to
larger scale demonstration, as described in WP 3. This can be achieved through further
supported R&D as described in the common actions, including support for scaling up, for
example the BBI JU SpiralG project706. The potential for production in Europe is unclear
until the requirements of these systems are better understood.

The barriers to this pathway will be addressed through the actions set out in the common
barriers and actions section, and so no separate roadmap is given.

706
SpiralG Production of phycocyanin from the spirulina arthrospira sp. BBI JU. 2021. Available online at:
https://www.bbi-europe.eu/projects/spiralg

308
H. Two-platform (organic fibres and oil) biorefinery using natural fibres

This pathway is commercial today for use of fibres in the production of composites, but at
research and pilot stage for the biorefinery concept yielding multiple products. Actions
common to all pathways will be important to increase the market pull for the composites,
which will also support R&D and scale up in the biorefinery approaches. As will all pathways,
and in particular those based on crops, careful attention to sustainability is required.

The barriers to this pathway will be addressed through the actions set out in the common
barriers and actions section, and so no separate roadmap is given.

I. One platform (syngas) biorefinery using lignocellulosic biomass and municipal

solid waste

Several initiatives exist for this gasification-based pathway at pilot, demonstration and
commercial scale using straw, wood or MSW as feedstock. The primary barriers and actions
relate to:

• cost reduction through scale up and further plant roll out, which requires significant
investment given the high capex of the scale needed for these plants and additional
capacity to license projects.

• to creating a market for products from this pathway, in particular with additional
support/targets for products that compete with those produced from food/feed
crop? based pathways as defined in the actions for all pathways.

• identifying and increasing supply of sustainable feedstocks, in particular assessing

and verifying the potential for and sustainability of use of MSW.

309
310
Figure 121. Pathway I roadmap

311
Scale up

Barrier: Limited number of players slows deployment – there are very few players
with high TRL technologies in this pathway. Their current deployment model involves
designing, building and operating the plants themselves, which takes time. Moving to a
licensing model, and helping these companies to expand their licensing capability would
speed roll out, as well as supporting technology developers who are at an earlier stage.

Action: Matchmaking programme to help technology developers find more

licensees, public investment in technology developers to help expand their
licensing capability, promotion of partnership with technology licensing businesses.

Barrier: Technology risk in gasification deters investors in commercial scale

plants – high profile project failures in gasification based routes to fuels have led to high
perceived technology risk by investors, which, coupled with high capex for these plants,
makes financing difficult. Potential investors or licensees may wait until a plant has been
built and operated for a sufficient period of time in order to de-risk investment, slowing
ramp up.

Action: Encourage partnerships between established technology companies and

new market entrants to give assurance of technology performance.

Action: Establish insurance schemes for new technologies707 which assess

technology performance, projected financial performance and risk.

Action: Technology validation by trusted organisations, for example through

equity investment through the European Circular Bioeconomy Fund launched by the
EC and EIB708.

Action: Ensure that projects funded through public schemes such as those in the
common actions section are funded at a high enough level to ensure construction
at a suitable scale for the scale up pathway, and take the project through to reliable
operation.

Feedstock

Same woody biomass from forest-based industries barriers and actions as for pathway D

Same non-food crop barriers and actions as for pathway E

Additional barriers related to use of MSW:

Barrier: Time and cost of identifying suitable sources of MSW feedstock - sourcing
feedstock of the right quality is critical to ensuring the viability of this value chain.
Assessing the real costs of this material is also complex.

Action: Grant funding for studies to identify suitable sources of MSW/RDF

and improved data provision on identification, tracking and current uses residual
biomass streams. (source: WP 3 Task 3 (2020)).

Action: Further studies to evaluate the cost of collecting, sorting, cleaning

and processing MSW to achieve purer streams which could processed by

707
E.g. analogous to New Energy Risk. Source: New Energy Risk. About us. 2021. Available online at:
https://newenergyrisk.com/about/
708
European Commission. European Circular Bioeconomy Fund. 2020. Available online at: https://european-
biotechnology.com/up-to-date/latest-news/news/eib-and-ec-launch-circular-bioeconomy-fund.html

312
 separate routes, and the benefits of this versus mixed processing. (source: WP 3
Task3 (2020).

Action: Support establishment of MSW/RDF supply companies for bio-based

chemicals and materials projects as described in the common actions. This entity
would work with technology developers and/or resource holders to find suitable
sites, guarantee feedstock supply and quality.

Action: Support from the EU or MSs for establishment of European sites

with optimized technology to manage the whole range of waste products
rather than export of European wastes to other countries. (source: WP 3 Task 3
(2020))

Action: Establishment of standards for refuse derived fuel (RDF) and

develop RDF processing technologies to improve quality of feedstock.

Sustainability

Barrier: Unclear sustainability performance of use of MSW for energy and

chemicals and materials. The assessment of sustainability is critical for all bioproducts,
as explained in the common barriers and actions section. Whilst use of MSW for materials,
rather than energy, is favoured by the waste hierarchy (see WP 3), assessing sustainability
involves additional considerations that are not present for other feedstocks, such as
consideration of the treatment of non-biogenic content in the feedstock. This can have a
large impact on GHG emissions, depending on the end of life fate of the bio-product. In
addition, some studies consider the counterfactual fate of the MSW, which can vary
considerably by location.

Action: Further research on sustainability of MSW value chains, which will

need to be ongoing given changing waste volume, composition and disposal options.

Action: Project-level LCA is required for MSW projects under any sustainability
scheme developed, as described under common actions, to take account of
counterfactuals and the specific situation in that region.

J. Two platform (pyrolytic liquid and biochar) biorefinery using lignocellulosic

biomass

Fast pyrolysis is demonstrated at commercial scale, but conversion to biomaterials and

chemicals is mostly at the research stage. The priority for use in biomaterials and chemicals
is therefore further RD&D, whilst other barriers and actions relate to enabling fast pyrolysis
as a whole for all applications.

313
314
Figure 122. Pathway J roadmap

315
Scale up

Barrier: High technology risk is a barrier to investment in demonstration plants,

as well as uncertainty over competing options. Fast pyrolysis has lower technology
risk as multiple plants have been built, but standalone upgrading is at pilot scale. Catalytic
pyrolysis has higher technology risk.

Action: Encourage partnerships between established technology companies and

new market entrants to give assurance of technology performance.

Action: Establish insurance schemes for new technologies709 which assess

technology performance, projected financial performance and risk

Action: Technology validation by trusted organisations, for example through

equity investment through the European Circular Bioeconomy Fund launched by the
EC and EIB710.

Market entry

Barrier: Variable properties of raw and upgraded pyrolysis oils could limit the ability
to assess and trade oils from different producers.

Action: Development of standards/specifications for raw and upgraded bio-

oils and HTL oils to ensure that bio-oil producers and upgraders have a ‘common
language’, which would ultimately facilitate faster uptake and trading of raw bio-oils.

Action: Facilitate pyrolysis oil and HTL oil trading and encourage competition
through establishment of trading networks and centres.

Feedstock

Same woody biomass from forest-based industries barriers and actions as for pathway D

Same energy crop barriers and actions as for pathway E

K. One platform (bio-crude) biorefinery using lignocellulosic, aquatic biomass,

organic residues

In this pathway, several companies are building demonstration scale plants to bring the
technology towards commercialization. This currently ends at bio-crude level that would
need to be further upgraded to produce chemicals and materials and/or biofuels. As with
pathway J, the priority for use in chemicals and materials is therefore further RD&D, whilst
other barriers and actions relate to enabling HTL as a whole for all applications.

The barriers to this pathway will be addressed through the actions set out in the common
barriers and actions section as well as those in pathway J (see Figure 122), and so no
separate roadmap is given.

Scale up

Same action as for pathway J

709
E.g. analogous to New Energy Risk. Source: New Energy Risk. About us. 2021. Available online at:
https://newenergyrisk.com/about/
710
European Commission. European Circular Bioeconomy Fund. 2020. Available online at: https://european-
biotechnology.com/up-to-date/latest-news/news/eib-and-ec-launch-circular-bioeconomy-fund.html

316
Market entry

Same standards action as for pathway J

Feedstock

Same woody biomass from forest-based industries barriers and actions as for pathway D

Same energy crop barriers and actions as for pathway E

6.4 Biorefinery outlook for deployment in the EU

Approach to the outlook for deployment

An outlook for deployment to 2030 is developed for each pathway. For each biorefinery
pathway, this considers:

• the number of additional biorefineries to be built by 2030;

• the total additional installed capacity for chemicals and materials by 2030;

• the capital investment required for this additional level of biorefinery deployment.

The two deployment scenarios developed in WP 5 form the basis of the ‘biorefinery outlook
for deployment in the EU’ developed in this WP. These growth scenarios set the upper and
lower bound of the biorefinery outlook deployment between 2020 and 2030, whereas the
outlook for deployment aims to project what could be achieved if all of the actions in the
roadmaps are completed. The methodology applied in the ramp up model developed in WP
5 is limited by the quantity and quality of publicly available data. This may create
uncertainties around the estimations outlook for deployment of bio-based chemicals and
materials refineries in the EU by 2030.

The results of some actions will not influence the deployment to 2030 as they will not be
implemented in time and so the results will not be seen over the next 10 years. These
actions are still important and, may have a significant impact on biorefinery deployment
after 2030.

The approach to determine the outlook for deployment for each pathway cannot be
developed by considering each pathway in isolation, or without considering policy changes
that may influence the deployment rates of one or more of the pathways.

Policy developments will help determine the overall and relative ramp-up of these
pathways. Whilst the roadmaps suggest areas of policy that should be considered, they do
not specify fixed policy actions including targets, and therefore the impact of policy actions
on deployment is not clear from the roadmaps. For example:

• If the policy direction is in support of lignocellulosic biomass rather than food and
feed crop-based feedstocks for both fuels and chemicals and materials, then
pathway E is likely to see a more rapid growth than A and B711. In contrast, if there
is support for both food and feed crop-based pathways (e.g. A and B) and non-
crop-based pathways (e.g. E) for chemicals and materials, a higher total ramp up
with plants being deployed or expanded in all three pathways is possible.

711
A, B and E share the same conversion process (fermentation) and produce some of the same products (e.g.
ethanol), but whilst A and B are based on food/feed crops, pathway E uses lignocellulosic biomass.

317
 Table 51. Description of biorefinery types with criteria applied to determine the output capacity used in the ramp-up model.

Plant type Description

Operational Current active commercial biorefineries.

Commercial

Closed Closed commercial biorefineries that are not considered in the model.

Announced Publicly announced commercial biorefinery projects.

Operational Current operational demonstration biorefineries which could be scaled up to “New

Demonstration

Commercial” biorefineries.

Closed Unsuccessful demonstration projects are closed down and not considered further.

Announced Publicly announced demonstration biorefinery projects.

In order to develop an outlook for deployment the following assumptions have been made.
These assumptions are not aligned with the actions assigned to policy makers (P) in the
roadmaps as these are not specific enough. Rather, these assumptions assume a direction
for the pathways that is a result of multiple factors including actions on the roadmaps and
external market factors.

• Favourable conditions for secondary feedstocks (non-crop) to produce chemicals and

materials in the EU must be fostered. This is why stronger support is expected for the
ramp up of pathways A-C (where residues are used) as well as pathways D,E, I and J.
For these pathways, the analysis assumes that the advanced biofuels projects are built,
commissioned and started up as per the high scenario. This implies the following
percentage of their output to chemicals and materials:

‒ Pathway D: 50% (largely methanol to chemicals and derivative materials)

‒ Pathway E: 50% (largely ethanol to chemicals and derivative materials)
‒ Pathway I: 50% (largely syngas or methanol to chemicals and derivative
materials)
‒ Pathway J: 1.5% (largely pyrolysis oil fractionation to chemicals and materials)
• Pathways based on crop-based feedstocks (A,B,C, F and H) continue to grow at a similar
rate to that seen previously. These pathways account for the largest number of plants
in the EU and the majority of the ramp up is expected to be from debottlenecking /
expansion of these existing facilities.

• For all pathways:

All of the announced commercial and demonstration plants (Table 51) are built,
commissioned and started up. The scenario used depends on the pathway analysed.
Further details are given below in the specific pathway section.

Demonstration plants are scaled up to new commercial biorefineries (see Table 51).

The scenario used is adapted depending on the properties of the pathway analysed. Further
details are given below in the pathway specific section.

Overall outlook for deployment

Bringing the results of the model developed in WP 5 and the roadmaps developed in WP 6
together, allows the overall ramp up potential of chemicals and materials-driven
biorefineries in the EU to 2030 to be estimated. Approximately 3.1 million tonnes of
additional capacity could be possible in the EU by the end of the decade (Figure 123). Most

318
of the additional capacity is expected to be from pathways D, E and I (for further details
see WP 5).

The additional capacity includes the supply from the expansion / debottlenecking of
existing commercial plants under high growth scenario assumptions. It also considers the
contribution of demonstration, new commercial and announced commercial biorefineries.
The outlook for deployment does not consider the additional bio-based chemicals and
materials supply that could come from the alternative bio-based chemicals and materials
ramp-up routes described in WP 5712.

Figure 123. Supply ramp up, additional supply from debottlenecking/expansion of existing commercial scale biorefineries,
demonstration, new commercial and announced commercial plants by pathway. The debottlenecking factor was estimated for
bio-based chemicals (Deb/Exp = debottleneck/expansion)

Analysing the outlook for deployment by number of plants allows to obtain a broader
picture of the potential ramp up since the scale of biorefineries can differ depending on the
conversion processes and feedstocks used. Depending on the pathway the scale of
demonstration and commercial biorefineries is estimated to range between 8-20 kta and 4
to 103 kta respectively (Table 53, Table 54). Approximately 42 new plants, including 7 at
demonstration scale, could be built in the EU by the end of the decade (Figure 124). While
the ramp up is clearly dominated by pathways D, E and I, initiatives in pathways A, C, F,
H and J could also lead to new biorefineries.

As addressed in WP 5, the production of bio-based chemicals and materials can be achieved

through other production routes than chemical and material focused biorefineries. Four
routes, referred to as alternative bio-based chemicals and materials ramp-up routes were
assessed in WP 5. The future production in the high and the low growth scenarios were
projected for each of these. While the production capacity from alternative routes was not
considered when developing the outlook for deployment, it should be noted that they have
the potential to significantly contribute to the supply ramp up of bio-based chemicals and
materials in the EU.

712
Alternative ramp up routes addressed in WP5: Crop based fuel-focused biorefineries switching focus to the
chemicals market, Co-processing in petroleum refineries to produce chemicals (e.g. olefins) or chemical feedstocks
(naphtha, BTX, LPG), Co-processing in steam crackers to produce chemicals, Co-processing in existing methanol
biorefineries.

319
 Figure 124. Additional number of plants from demonstration, new commercial and announced commercial plants by pathway.
Here, the expansion and debottlenecking factor is not considered, since it was calculated for bio-based chemicals and materials
overall

Comparison with Bioeconomy Strategy new biorefineries target

The European Commission’s Bioeconomy Strategy713 states the development of 300 new
sustainable biorefineries by 2030. This target was first mentioned in a roadmap714
developed during the BIO-TIC project715 in 2015. The roadmap considered the following
product groups that had high future market potential:

• advanced biofuels (bioethanol and bio-based jet fuel)

• biochemical building blocks

• bio-based plastics

• biosurfactants derived from fermentation

For each of these product groups, except biosurfactants, the demand for the bio-based fuel
or product was first estimated. This was followed by the selection of individual plant
capacity figures, which were used to arrive at the number of biorefineries that would have
to be deployed by 2030 to meet the demand estimated. Table 52 lists the estimates
provided in the BIO-TIC roadmap.

713
European Commission. A sustainable bioeconomy for Europe - Strengthening the connection between economy,
society and the environment: updated bioeconomy strategy. 2018. Available online at:
https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/edace3e3-e189-11e8-b690-01aa75ed71a1/language-
en/format-PDF/source-149755478
714
BIO-TIC. A roadmap to a thriving industrial biotechnology sector in Europe. 2015. Available online at:
http://www.industrialbiotech-europe.eu/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/BIO-TIC-roadmap.pdf
715
The BIO-TIC project (2012-2015) was a FP7 funded project focusing on the industrial biotechnology sector in
Europe.

320
 Table 52. Number of biorefineries and total capacity estimated in 2030 (BIO-TIC roadmap)

Biofuel/ bioproduct Number of new biorefineries Total capacity (million

between 2008-2030 tonnes per year)

Advanced ethanol 185 13

Bio-based jet fuels 50 2

Biochemical building blocks 30 1.5

Bio-based plastics 45 2.2

TOTAL 310 ~19

The current analysis takes into account biorefineries producing biochemical building blocks,
bio-based plastics and, to some extent, advanced ethanol as well. However, it does not
include biorefineries producing bio-based jet fuels as this is out of scope. Furthermore,
there may be overlaps between the biorefineries producing biochemical building blocks and
bio-based plastics. In terms of the analysis timeframe, the BIO-TIC analysis spans the
period 2008 to 2030, while the current analysis considers only the period 2020 to 2030.
However, the main reason for the wide variation in biorefinery estimates is the difference
in the methodology adopted. While the BIO-TIC roadmap estimated the number of new
biorefineries that need to be operating by 2030 in order to meet the estimated demand,
the current analysis provides an estimate of the number of new biorefineries that can be
realistically deployed by 2030 taking into account multiple factors mentioned in the
previous sections.

In conclusion, it is difficult to compare the BIO-TIC roadmap biorefinery estimates with the
current analysis due to variation in the methodologies adopted, product groups considered
and the analyses timeframes.

Comparison with previous ramp-up rates

In order to sense check the proposed ramp up rate, the outlook for deployment is compared
with the historic ramp up in corn-based ethanol production in the US. The situation in the
US is a historical example of a time during which biorefineries have been ramped up
significantly over a similar duration as considered in this study. It can therefore be used
as proxy to validate the assumptions made in this study.

The production of bioethanol began in the late 1970s. This scale up was encouraged by the
tax credit implemented by the Deficit Reduction Act of 1984716 reflecting Congress’ efforts
to promote energy self-sufficiency. Ethanol fuel production increased steadily throughout
the 1980s and 1990s, when its use was encouraged to replace methyl tert-butyl ether
(MTBE) in gasoline blending (directly or via ETBE). Figure 125 shows the progressive ramp up
of bioethanol in the US. A sharp increase in production can be observed in 2001. This was
provoked by a series of factors including concerns over energy security, high oil prices, the
phase out of MTBE717 and the introduction of legislative incentives.

While the deployment of bioethanol in the US will not necessarily act as blueprint for the
bio-based chemicals and materials focused refinery ramp-up in the EU, the upturn of the
industry post 2001 in the US gives a good indication of what is technically possible if there

716
Joint Committee on Taxation. General explanation of the revenue provisions of the Deficit Reduction Act of 1984.
1984. Available online at: http://www.jct.gov/jcs-41-84.pdf. See Section IX.C (p1078) .
717
ICIS. A very short history of MTBE in the US. 2006. Available online at :
https://www.icis.com/explore/resources/news/2006/07/05/1070674/timeline-a-very-short-history-of-mtbe-in-the-
us/

321
are strong incentives (political and financial). In the 10-year period, between 2005 and
2015, 114 new bioethanol plants were built in the US718.

Provided the needed policy and financial support is given, the ramp up rates developed as
part of the outlook for deployment are considered feasible for the considered timescale.
The outlook for deployment estimates about 40 additional biorefineries by 2030 in the EU
and this is significantly below the ramp-up achieved in the US for bioethanol. However,
there are several differences that may mean the ramp-up of chemical and materials driven
biorefineries is more challenging. These include the need to develop in some cases supply
chains that do not currently exist (the US had this in place with corn feedstock to an extent
already), the regulatory differences in the EU compared with the US (REACH,
environmental permitting etc..), the market size of chemicals and materials versus fuels,
and the varying level of TRL of the different pathways. Ramp up rates are heavily influenced
by the technical maturity level, as they determine when and how quickly new biorefineries
can be deployed. The production of corn-based ethanol was already mature in the early
2000s. Developers already had the required know-how to build new biorefineries and were
not facing technology related bottlenecks in the development timeline.

This study, however, focuses on emerging pathways to produce bio-based chemicals and
materials. Although several are expected to reach commercial maturity by 2030, some of
the pathways considered are not at TRL9 today. The EU market for bio-based chemicals
and materials is at a less mature stage than the US bioethanol industry was at the
beginning of the ramp up process in 2005.

Figure 125. Bioethanol fuel production in the USA 1981- 2016719

718
USDoE. Alternative Fuels Data Center. Updated 2020. Available online at:
https://afdc.energy.gov/data/widgets/10342
719
EIA, Fuel Ethanol Overview, Available online at:
https://www.eia.gov/totalenergy/data/browser/index.php?tbl=T10.03#/?f=A&start=1981&end=2016&chart
ed=7-18

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Outlook for deployment by pathway

The supply ramp up model is used as a basis to determine the potential deployment outlook
by individual pathway. A high and low scenario was developed for each pathway in WP 5.
These serve as upper and lower boundary of the potential deployment outlook. However,
as described above, the deployment of a specific pathway is influenced by different factors.
The deployment outlook is therefore treated on a case-by-case basis and adapted to the
particularities of the specific pathway. Depending on the pathway this may translate into
a projection equal to the high or low scenario, or a projection in between these figures.

• Pathway A – The outlook for deployment is based on the assumptions made in the
low scenario. This means that the additional capacity from demonstration plants,
new commercial plants and announced commercial plants is conservative for this
pathway/ The outlook for deployment favours pathways relying on secondary
feedstocks. For this reason, the ramp up of pathway A is driven by new
developments which are focused on sugar residues. Overall, 3 new commercial
plants are expected for this pathway by 2030. This corresponds to an additional
capacity of 58kta.

• Pathway B – This pathway uses starch-based crops to produce a wide range of

products. Given the high maturity of the pathway, the model projects limited ramp
up potential for this type of biorefineries. Development activities focusing on
processing residues of the starch industry would contribute to the potential ramp
up of this pathway. However, the only demonstration plant identified in the
database relies on corn as main feedstock. Aligned with the assumptions described
above (see Outlook for deployment approach) built according to assumptions made
in the low scenario, the outlook projects no additional new capacity from pathway
B by the end of 2030.

• Pathway C – This pathway largely relies on oil-based crops, hence the low scenario
is used as basis for the deployment. The one announced commercial plant is
expected to be built according to the scale and development timeline assumptions
made in the low scenario. Overall, 1 additional commercial plant with an annual
capacity of 6kta is envisaged for pathway C.

• Pathway D – Initiatives to innovate in pathway D are driven by activities observed

in the forest-based sector as well as by the strong link to the biofuels sector. The
forest-based sector is diversifying their product portfolio to include bio-based
materials (fibres, resins, lignin etc.) and chemicals (solvents, pharmaceuticals,
plastics etc.). For this reason, new announced projects in this industry could
potentially represent strong future opportunities for pathway D. While the additional
supply from the diversification of pulp and paper side streams into bio-based
chemicals and materials presents strong potential, it has not been considered in the
outlook for deployment since at this stage this switch remains only a future
possibility. The outlook for deployment is expected to achieve the levels described
in the high scenario. This results in the addition of 12 new biorefineries by 2030,
totalling to an additional capacity of 800 kta. . Most additional biorefineries will be
at commercial scale (either announced commercial plants or scaled up
demonstration plants). The ramp up also estimates as well as 4 additional
demonstration plants. Pathway E – The outlook for deployment favours pathways
relying on secondary feedstocks, such as lignocellulosic biomass in pathway E. The
ambitious ramp up potential described in the high scenario is assumed to be
possible for this pathway. This results in the addition of 19 new chemicals and
materials focused biorefineries. These are made up of 17 commercials plants
(announced and scaled up demonstration plants, i.e. new commercial plants) and
2 demonstration scale biorefineries. The addition of 1400kta is mainly driven by the
strong connection between the use of lignocellulosic biomass in the advanced
biofuels and chemical industries.

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 • Pathway F – Green biomass is the main feedstock used for pathway F, which may
be affected by indirect land use change (iLUC) impact policies on crops using
agricultural land but depending on the source could be from landscape care
biomass. The deployment obtained in the low scenario is therefore used as basis
for additional supply potential for pathway F. One new commercial plant could
contribute to an additional capacity of 5kta.

• Pathway G – The use of aquatic biomass for conventional biochemicals and

biomaterials is currently at low maturity level and under both scenarios no ramp up
is expected from this pathway. Further information on the ongoing research
activities is given in WP 3 and WP 5.

• Pathway H – The situation for the ramp up potential of pathway H is very similar
to pathway H. Natural fibres such as hemp or flax are the main feedstock used. The
ramp up of this pathway could be affected by indirect land use change (iLUC) impact
policies on crops using agricultural land. The deployment obtained in the low
scenario is therefore used as basis for additional supply potential for pathway H.
Two new commercial plants could contribute to an additional capacity of 15kta in
2030.

• Pathway I –Growing activity in this pathway in the fuels sector suggests strong
associated ramp up opportunities for bio-based chemicals and materials. The
outlook for deployment of this pathway assumes that the results displayed in the
high scenario can be achieved by 2030. This entails the addition of 4 new
commercial plants, amounting to 281kta.

• Pathway J – Similarly to pathways D, E and I, this pathway has strong links to the
bioenergy sector. Progress made in pyrolysis oil production for bioenergy purposes
accelerates the potential use of pyrolysis oil fractioning into bio-based chemicals
and materials. Hence, the outlook aligns with the results obtained in the high
scenario. By 2030, 1 new demonstration biorefinery is expected, with a total
capacity of 20kta.

• Pathway K – Hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) for the processing of bio-based

chemicals and materials is currently at low maturity level. For both the high and
low scenarios no ramp up is expected from this pathway. Further information on
ongoing research activities is given in WP 3 and WP 5.

Capital required

Different sources were used to estimate the capital investment (capex) required for the
level of deployment of the different biorefinery pathways. These include reference plant
details from the database (WP 4) and estimated the capital required to be invested today
at the average capacity in the outlook for deployment of each pathway. This estimation
was completed using the Chemical Engineering Plant Cost Index720 and using a scale factor
of 0.65.

On this basis, it is estimated that a total of over Euro 0.16 billion (2019) is required as
capital for the additional demonstration scale plants across different pathways; while
around Euro 6.70 billion (2019) is required as capital for the additional commercial
scale plants across different pathways. Note: Capex estimation considers the average
plant scale and number of additional plants for each of the pathways, which were estimated
in the previous section on the outlook for deployment.

The capex estimates are subject to large variations since the pathways represent different
types of additional biorefineries. This level of estimate therefore aligns with the AACE’s
cost estimate classification system ‘Class 5’ where the cost estimate accuracy levels are

720
Chemical Engineering Plant Cost Index.

324
considered to be very low721. The estimates can vary from as high as +100% to as low as
-50%. On that basis, we estimate a capital cost range of Euro 81 million (2019) to over
Euro 0.32 billion (2019) for the additional demonstration scale plants (5 in total); and
a capital cost range of Euro 3.33 billion to Euro 13.34 billion (2019) for the additional
commercial scale plants (34 in total). We have tried to compare these estimates with
those arrived at in previous studies, however, we note that the assumptions behind the
estimates may vary. For example, the BIO-TIC project roadmap suggested that Euro 500
million would suffice to mobilize 20 to 30 biorefinery projects with a total value of around
Euro 4 billion, “with a capital leverage of 5x, and an interest rate able to cope with a failure
rate of 10%”722. The plant scale was not defined here and so it is difficult to conclude
whether the 20-30 biorefinery projects considered were demo scale or commercial.
However, since the roadmap refers to them as ‘biorefinery projects’ these may be assumed
to be demo scale. In that case the upper limit of the demo scale capex cost (Euro 0.32
billion) estimated in this project comes close to the figure estimated in the BIO-TIC
roadmap.

The capital costs estimated for demonstration plants by pathway are provided in Table 53.
Similarly, the capital costs estimated for commercial plants by pathway are provided in

Table 54.

Table 53. Estimated capital costs for average scale demonstration plants in different pathways

Pathway Average Additional Reference plant details Total estimated capex

plant scale demonstration for demonstration
(kta) plants (2030) plants (2019, Euro mn)

D 8 4 AustroCel Hallein's commercial 52

plant (under construction) that Range: 26 to 105
will use wood sugar to produce
bioethanol. Planned start in
2021.723

E 16 2 Chempolis's plant in Oulu, 90

Finland which uses straw, reed, Range: 45 to 180
empty fruit bunches, bagasse,
corn stalks, as well as wood
residues as feedstock to
produce ethanol and various
chemicals.724

J 20 1 Empyro plant in the 20

Netherlands producing fast Range: 10 to 40
pyrolysis bio oil (FPBO) using
wood biomass and/or
residues.725

TOTAL > 162

Range: 81 to 325

Note: As per the biorefinery deployment analysis, no demonstration plants associated with the
remaining pathways are expected to be built by 2030. Therefore, these are not covered in Table 53.

721
AAEC. Cost estimate classification system – as applied in engineering, procurement, and construction for the
process industries. 2005. Available online at:
https://www.costengineering.eu/Downloads/articles/AACE_CLASSIFICATION_SYSTEM.pdf
722
BIO-TIC. A roadmap to a thriving industrial biotechnology sector in Europe. 2015. Available online at:
http://www.industrialbiotech-europe.eu/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/BIO-TIC-roadmap.pdf
723
AuroCel Hallein. Construction of the new bio-ethanol plant in Hallein has started. 2019. Available online at:
https://austrocel.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/AC_Bio-
Ethanol_Baubeginn_Pressetext_20191003_EN_final.pdf
724
E4tech biofuels database
725
BTG Bioliquids. Empyro Hengelo, NL. N.d. Available online at: https://www.btg-bioliquids.com/plant/empyro-
hengelo/

325
 Table 54. Estimated capital costs for commercial plants in different pathways

Pathway Average Additional Reference plant details Total estimated

plant commercial capex for
scale plants commercial plants
(kta) (2030) (2019, Euro mn)

A 19 3 Total Corbion’s PLA plant in Thailand 91

using sugar and starch crops as Range: 46 to >180
feedstock (sugar beet and sugar
cane)726,727

C 6 1 METabolic EXplorer (METEX) plant 37

under construction in France that will Range: 19 to 75
produce 1,3-PDO and butyric acid
using vegetable oil and residual oils.728

D 103 8 Planned Aemetis plant in the US that 2,174

will use agricultural waste to produce Range: ~1,090 to
ethanol729 ~4,350

E 73 17 Planned St1 Cellunolix® ethanol plant 3,848

in Norway that will produce ethanol Range: >1,920 to
and biogas using sawdust.730 ~7,700

F 5 1 Verbio's straw to biomethane plant in 15

Germany.731 Range: 8 to >30

H 7.50 2 Pathway C used as proxy given no 75

information on an actual biorefinery for Range: 37 to ~ 150
pathway H. Part of pathway C is similar
to that of pathway H.

I 70 4 Planned Enerkem plant in Spain that 425

will produce methanol using MSW.732 Range: >210 to 850

TOTAL 6,665
Range: >3,330 to
~13,335

Note: As per the biorefinery deployment analysis, no commercial scale plants associated with
pathway B are expected to be built by 2030. Therefore this pathway is not covered in Table 54.

Capital investment is not only pathway specific. Many other factors are important to
consider including the type of investment. When considering a particular investment the
following order of capital investment can be considered, however not all investments are
possible under all of these types. For example, there may not be mothballed plants suitable
to be converted to a chemical and material driven biorefinery, further debottlenecking of
existing biorefineries may not be possible etc…

726
Corbion. Raw material sources. N.d. Available online at: https://www.corbion.com/feedstocks
727
It has been assumed that European capex costs are 1.2x costs in Thailand
728
WP4 - JRC/Biorefinery Outlook database
729
E4tech biofuels database
730
St1. Major bioethanol plant slated for Jakobstad, sawdust raw material. 2016. Available online at:
https://yle.fi/uutiset/osasto/news/major_bioethanol_plant_slated_for_jakobstad_sawdust_raw_material/9295099
731
Verbio. VERBIO commissions straw-to-biogas facility in Germany. 2015. Available online at:
http://biomassmagazine.com/articles/11866/verbio-commissions-straw-to-biogas-facility-in-germany
732
ACN. Advanced biofuel plant planned to open in 2022. 2018. Available online at:
http://www.catalannews.com/business/item/advanced-biofuel-plant-planned-to-open-in-2022

326
 HIGHEST • New greenfield biorefinery
CAPEX

• New biorefinery on a brownfield site (lower capex from shared services

such as steam, water, power, storage, logistics etc…) e.g. UPM Leuna,
Germany

• Re-purposing/conversion of a plant on existing brownfield site (highly

project dependent as it only some equipment can be reused) – e.g. Green
Biologics to converted a US ethanol plant to n-butanol and acetone facility
in 2015, which has now closed

• Expansion of a biorefinery on a brownfield site (e.g. valorising a side

stream) – capacity increase often limited

• Debottlenecking (improving processes, revamping or new equipment) to

increase the capacity of existing biorefineries - capacity increase is limited
however

LOWEST • Co-processing / refocus of existing plants from fuels to chemicals (drop-in

CAPEX
such as methanol)

Figure 126. Investment types to ramp-up bio-based chemical and material production

6.5 Identify and quantify GHG and socio-economic benefits

Estimates were made of the EU-wide benefits that could be realised through the fulfilment
of the roadmap:

• Overall GHG savings

• Creation of local jobs

• Increased raw material security (reduced imports of fossil feedstocks from outside
the EU)

OVERALL GHG SAVINGS DELIVERED

GHG emissions reduction is one of the identified benefits of biorefinery deployment for the
production of low carbon and circular products. This is especially important now as the EU
recently proposed a higher target733 for GHG emissions reduction by 2030, which will have
a large impact on energy-intensive industries like chemicals and materials734. This section
focuses on estimating GHG reductions associated with different biorefinery pathways.

For each of the analysed pathways, a bio-based product was selected as a reference and
the associated GHG savings (%) were found in literature or calculated. Further, the fossil
counterparts for these bio-based products were identified and their GHG emissions were
noted. The total additional capacity estimated for the associated pathway was then used
along with the bio-based product GHG savings (%) to calculate GHG savings in tonnes
CO2eq.. Finally, total GHG savings associated with the deployment of biorefineries in
different pathways were calculated.

733
To reduce emissions by 55%, compared with 1990 levels, up from the previous target of 40%.
734
Lopez, J. EU proposes tougher 2030 emissions target, will impact chemicals. 2020. Available online at:
https://www.icis.com/explore/resources/news/2020/09/16/10552969/eu-proposes-tougher-2030-emissions-
target-will-impact-chemicals

327
We estimate over 3.51 million tonnes of GHG savings, assuming that all the additional
biorefinery capacity (demonstration and commercial) estimated for 2030 is realised. The
highest savings are attributed to pathway E, followed by pathway D. Details are
provided in Table 55. Regarding pathway E, it should be noted that the French wheat-
based ethanol GWP (Global Warming Potential) figure was used for the analysis as it is EU-
related. However, there is large variation in GWP of 1G ethanol depending on the feedstock
and geography, that is, where the feedstock is grown. For example, imported 1G ethanol
derived from sugarcane (Brazil) or maize (US) has GWP of 1.6 kg CO2e/kg ethanol, while
ethanol produced from sugar beets grown in the EU has a GWP of 1.3 kg CO2e/kg ethanol.
Sugarcane derived ethanol is already being processed into bio ethylene and polymerised
into polyethylene by Braskem in Brazil, under the trademark I'm GreenTM735. I’m GreenTM
HDPE has a GWP of -3.1 kg CO2e/kg I’m GreenTM HDPE which is much lower compared to
1.9 kg CO2e/kg fossil HDPE.736

Table 55. GHG savings by pathway

Pathway Additional capacity, GHG savings associated Fossil reference (kg CO2 GHG savings
2030 (kta) with bio reference (%) eq./kg fossil) (kt CO2eq)

A 58 70 (PLA)737 1.63 (PP)738 ~66

51 739
C 6 60 (Propylene glycol) 4.67 (Propylene glycol) ~17
51 740
D 739 85 (Acetic acid) 1.45 (Acetic acid) ~911
741
E 1,197 95 (Ethanol) 2.07(1G ethanol from ~2,354
wheat grown in France)742

F 5 75 (Grass)743 0.72 (Soybean meal)744 ~3

745 746
H 15 75 (Hemp) 2.50 (Glass fibre) 28
51 747
I 281 40 (Methanol) 0.74 (Methanol) 83
748 749
J 20 83 (Pyrolysis oil) 3.03 (Natural gas) 50
3,512

735
Braskem. Where it is produced. 2020. Available online at: http://plasticoverde.braskem.com.br/site.aspx/Where-it-
is-produced
736
Braskem. I’m Green PE - Life Cycle Assessment. 2017. Available online at:
http://plasticoverde.braskem.com.br/Portal/Principal/Arquivos/Download/Upload/GreenPE-LCASummary2017-
CarbonTrust_v.2_230.pdf
737
WP3 report
738
PlasticsEurope. Eco-Profile. N.d. Available online at: https://www.plasticseurope.org/en/resources/eco-profiles
739
Bartolini, N., et al. Environmental and Economic Impact of the Antifreeze Agents in Geothermal Heat Exchangers.
Energies, 13, 5653; doi:10.3390/en13215653. 2020. Available online at: https://www.mdpi.com/1996-
1073/13/21/5653/pdf
740
LENZINGTM. Acetic acid bio-based. 2018. Available online at: https://bit.ly/3m5Jigw
741
Clariant. The potential of sunliquid®. 2018. Available online at : https://www.clariant.com/FY_2017_sunliquid
742
Muñoz, I., et al. Life cycle assessment of bio-based ethanol produced from different agricultural feedstocks. Int J
Life Cycle Assess. 2013. Available online at: https://www.unilever.com/Images/life-cycle-assessment-of-bio-based-
ethanol-produced-from-different-agricultural-feedstocks_tcm244-423775_en.pdf
743
Sanders, J. Grassa - Biorefining of grass will contribute to a sustainable rural development in Europe. 2020.
Available online at: https://cbio.au.dk/fileadmin/DJF/CBIO/Johan_Sanders_final.pdf
744
Adom, F., et al. Regional carbon footprint analysis of dairy feeds for milk production in the USA. The International
Journal of Life Cycle Assessment. 2012. Available at:
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/257680036_Regional_carbon_footprint_analysis_of_dairy_feeds_for_mil
k_production_in_the_USA#pf11
745
Nova Institute. Carbon Footprint and Sustainability of Different Natural Fibres for Biocomposites and Insulation
Material. 2019. Available online at : http://bio-based.eu/download/?did=167568&file=0
746
Nova Institute. Natural fibres show outstandingly low CO2 footprint compared to glass and mineral fibres. 2019.
Available online at: https://news.bio-based.eu/natural-fibres-show-outstandingly-low-co2-footprint-compared-to-
glass-and-mineral-fibres/
747
Śliwińska, A., et al. Environmental life cycle assessment of methanol and electricity co-production system based on
coal gasification technology. Science of The Total Environment. 2017. Available online at:
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/308019165_Environmental_life_cycle_assessment_of_methanol_and_el
ectricity_co-production_system_based_on_coal_gasification_technology
748
E4tech calculation
749
Biograce. Harmonised Calculations of Biofuel Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Europe. N.d. Available online at:
https://biograce.net/app/webroot/files/file/BioGrace_information_leaflet_EN.pdf

328
Note: As per the biorefinery deployment analysis, no demonstration/commercial scale plants
associated with pathway B are expected to be set up by 2030. Therefore this pathway is not covered
in Table 55.

Note that this approach only considers only one product as a reference in each pathway,
when in reality there will be a wide range of products, conversion technologies and
feedstocks. GHG savings will vary considerably depending on the type of bio-based
product, the production process, as well as the fossil comparator.

6.5.1 CREATION OF LOCAL JOBS

For each of the analysed pathways, a reference plant was selected that had a capacity
comparable with the average scale of demonstration or commercial plant, and for which
there was information on local jobs750 that were created once the plant became operational.
These data were used with the estimated number of additional plants (demonstration and
commercial) in 2030 to calculate the number of local jobs that could be created as a result.
On this basis, we estimate a total of over 1,900 local jobs, assuming that all the additional
biorefinery capacity (demonstration and commercial) estimated for 2030 is realised.
Maximum jobs are attributed to pathway E, followed by pathway D. Details provided
in Table 56.

As before, note that this is based on the information available for one reference plant per
pathway. In addition, only the jobs created at the plant once it was operational have been
considered, rather than including those in construction. Indirect jobs have not been
calculated. Such jobs may or may not be local as they can be created along the supply
chain. Furthermore, it is beyond the scope of the project to consider the impacts of
importing bio-based chemicals and materials/ products or those of biorefineries on existing
fossil industry jobs.

Finally, as observed by the IEA751, “biomass production and processing to produce biofuels
can benefit rural communities by increasing employment opportunities and expanding the
tax base that supports community services. Expansion of the bioeconomy could provide
jobs in rural areas where unemployment is often high.”

750
We consider direct jobs (i.e. the permanent jobs created at the biorefinery) to be the same as local jobs.
751
IEA Bioenergy. Mobilizing Sustainable Bioenergy Supply Chains. 2015. Available at:
https://www.ieabioenergy.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IEA-Bioenergy-inter-task-project-synthesis-report-
mobilizing-sustainable-bioenergy-supply-chains-28ot2015.pdf

329
 Table 56. Local jobs created

Pathway No. of local jobs Reference plant details No. of Total no. of
due to reference additional local jobs
plant demonstration/ that could
(commercial/ commercial be created
demonstration) plants by 2030 by 2030

A 39 (commercial)64 FKuR Kunststoff’s bioPE plant in Germany 3 (commercial) 117

that uses sugar/starch/lignocellulosic
feedstock.
C 35 (commercial)752 Spiga Nord plant in Italy producing 1 (commercial) 35
polyglycerols and glycerine using vegetable
oil
D 65 (demonstration Demonstration plant reference: Beologic’s 12 780
+ commercial)64 plant in Belgium which produces compounds (demonstration +
for wood polymer composites production commercial)
(WPC).
Commercial plant reference: 50 direct jobs
for estimated based on several sources that
suggest that direct jobs for such
biorefineries can range from 20 to 200,
depending on the plant capacity. These
biorefineries are often on integrated sites
with other P&P related operations so
therefore estimating jobs can be difficult.
E 40 (demonstration Demonstration plant reference: St 1 Kajaani 19 760
+ facility in Finland using sawdust to produce (demonstration +
commercial)753,754 ethanol biogas, lignin, turpentine, furfural, commercial)
and CO2
Commercial plant reference: Planned St1
Cellunolix® ethanol plant in Norway for
producing ethanol and biogas using sawdust
F 10 (commercial)755 4-platform (biogas, green juice, green 1 (commercial) 10
fibres, electricity & heat) biorefinery using
grass silage and food residues for bioplastic,
insulation material, fertilizer and electricity
H 16 (commercial)64 APM (Automotive Performance Materials) 2 (commercial) 32
plant in France that focuses on
compounding of natural fibres in
thermoplastics (hemp / wood / sisal / kenaf
/ linen).
I 50 (commercial)756 Advanced 'waste to chemicals' plant being 4 (commercial) 200
developed by Air Liquide, Enerkem,
Nouryon, the Port of Rotterdam and Shell in
Rotterdam.
J 8 Empyro plant in the Netherlands producing 1 8
(demonstration)757 pyrolysis oil using wood biomass and/or (demonstration)
residues
TOTAL 1,942

Note: As per the biorefinery deployment analysis, no demonstration/commercial scale plants associated with
pathway B are expected to be set up by 2030. Therefore, this pathway is not covered in Table 56.

752
JRC/Biorefinery Outlook database
753
Lane, J. St1 completes waste-to-ethanol Etanolix project in Sweden. 2015. Available online at:
https://www.biofuelsdigest.com/bdigest/2015/06/06/st1-completes-waste-to-ethanol-etanolix-project-in-sweden/
754
St1. Major bioethanol plant slated for Jakobstad, sawdust raw material. 2016. Available online at:
https://yle.fi/uutiset/osasto/news/major_bioethanol_plant_slated_for_jakobstad_sawdust_raw_material/9295099
755
IEA Bioenergy. 4-platform biorefinery – factsheet. 2017. Available at:
https://task42.ieabioenergy.com/publications/4-platform-biogas-green-juice-green-fibres-electricityheat-
biorefinery-using-grass-silage-food-residues-bioplastic-insulation-material-fertilizer-electricity/
756
W2C Rotterdam. About us. N.d. Available online at: https://w2c-rotterdam.com/about-us
757
E4tech internal information

330
6.5.2 INCREASED RAW MATERIAL SECURITY (REDUCED IMPORTS OF FOSSIL
FEEDSTOCKS FROM OUTSIDE THE EU)

Increased use of EU biomass (see WP 5 for details of biomass resource potential in the EU)
resulting in reduced imports of fossil feedstocks from outside the EU could be a major
benefit from the deployment of chemical and material driven biorefineries. This could
increase the EU’s raw material security, as well as develop domestic jobs in the rural
economy as biomass supply chains are further developed and provide GHG reduction
benefits.

Today the majority organic chemicals and many materials (e.g. polymers) are produced
from crude oil that has been imported, processed in crude oil refineries and then further
processed (e.g. via steam cracking) to chemicals. The EU dependency on imported oil is
high - the EU relied on net imports (imports minus exports) for 94.6 % of the petroleum
and oil products consumed in 2018758. In 2018, total imports of crude oil to the EU
amounted to 513 million tonnes. Non-energy759 use of all the oil used in the EU accounted
for 14.1% in the same year. In addition, significant quantities of chemicals and materials
are also imported into the EU.

The displacement of crude oil imports will depend on the biorefinery pathway, the scale of
deployment, which products are substituted and to the extent they are substituted.
Commodity polymers such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyolefins
(polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP)) could all partially be substituted by one or
more of the biorefinery products or their downstream derivatives. For example, poly lactic
acid (PLA) derived from sugars can substitute PE, PP and PET in different applications760,761.
It is available on a commercial scale and can be converted into foam, film, moulded plastic
parts and fibre762. It is biodegradable and can be subjected to industrial composting. Note:
There is an ongoing debate regarding the impact of bioplastics like PLA on the current
recycling of plastics.

Polyolefins (PE and PP) are primarily produced from naphtha steam cracking in Europe.
About 1.8 tonnes of naphtha is required to produce 1 tonne of polyolefins.763 The overall
outlook for deployment estimated that 3.1 million tonnes of additional capacity could be
brought online by 2030. Using polyolefins as a proxy764, about 5.6 million tonnes of
naphtha, a fraction of crude oil, could be substituted.

Whilst the increase in energy security through increased domestic production of renewable
energy will remain the major driver for the EU to reduce its dependency on imported crude
oil, the deployment of chemicals and materials could also help drive this change.

758
Eurostat. Oil and petroleum products - a statistical overview. 2020. Available online from :
https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/statistics-explained/index.php/Oil_and_petroleum_products_-
_a_statistical_overview#Oil_imports_dependency
759
Non-energy consumption includes, for example, bitumen for road surfaces, the use of lubricants for reducing
friction as well as the use of oil products in the chemical industry for chemical properties rather than energy
content (combustion).
760
Alaerts, L., Augustinus, M., van Acker, K. Impact of Bio-Based Plastics on Current Recycling of Plastics.
Sustainability 10(5):1487. 2018. Available online at:
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/325062434_Impact_of_Bio-
Based_Plastics_on_Current_Recycling_of_Plastics
761
Wrap. Understanding plastic packaging and the language we use to describe it. N.d. Available online at:
https://wrap.org.uk/sites/files/wrap/Understanding%20plastic%20packaging%20FINAL.pdf
762
Corbion Purac. PLA Bioplastics. 2013. Available online at:
https://www.corbion.com/media/75646/corbionpurac_bioplastics_brochure.pdf
763
Ren, T., Patel, M., Blok, K. Olefins from conventional and heavy feedstocks: Energy use in steam cracking and
alternative processes. Energy 31(4):425-451. 2006. Available online at:
https://www.researchgate.net/deref/http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1016%2Fj.energy.2005.04.001
764
This is a high-level estimate - some of the biorefinery products would not substitute polyolefins, some fossil
products are not produced from crude oil (they are produced from coal or natural gas etc..) and some biorefinery
products could substitute existing bio-based products.

331
Annex I - WP 1 Literature Review Biorefinery Classifications Systems

IEA Bioenergy Task 42 Biorefinery Classification & Bio-Based Chemicals Update (IEA
2009/2018/2020)

The basic idea of this classification approach is that each individual biorefinery system can
be classified using the following four main features:

1. Platforms
2. Products
3. Feedstock
4. Processes

A biorefinery system is described as a conversion pathway from feedstock to products, via

platforms and processes. Each feature consists of several subgroups, which are listed
below:

1. Platforms

‒ Biogas (a mixture of mainly CH4 and CO2), from anaerobic digestion.

‒ Syngas (a mix of CO and H2), from gasification.
‒ Hydrogen (H2), from water-gas shift reaction, steam reforming, water electrolysis
and fermentation.
‒ C6 sugars (glucose, fructose, galactose), from hydrolysis of sucrose, starch,
cellulose and hemicellulose.
‒ C5 sugars (xylose, arabinose), from hydrolysis of hemicellulose and food and feed
side streams.
‒ Lignin (phenylpropane building blocks), from the processing of lignocellulosic
biomass.
‒ Pyrolysis liquid (a multicomponent mixture of different size molecules), from
pyrolysis.
‒ Oil (triglycerides) from oilseed crops, algae and oil based residues.
‒ Organic juice (made of different chemicals), which is the liquid phase extracted after
pressing of wet biomass (e.g., grass).
‒ Electricity and heat, which can be internally used to meet the energy needs of the
biorefinery or sold to the grid.

2. Products

‒ Energy: biodiesel, bioethanol, biomethane, synthetic biofuels, electricity and heat

‒ Materials: food, feed, fertilizer, glycerin, biomaterials, chemicals and building
blocks, polymers & resins, biohydrogen.

3. Feedstock

Dedicated feedstocks

‒ Sugar crops (sugar beet, sugarcane)

‒ Starch crops (wheat, corn, sweet sorghum)
‒ Lignocellulosic crops (wood, short rotation poplar, switchgrass and Miscanthus)
‒ Oil-based crops (rapeseed, soya, palm oil, Jatropha curcas)

332
 ‒ Grasses (green plant materials, grass silage, immature cereals and plant shoots)
‒ Marine biomass (micro and macro algae, seaweed)
Residues

‒ Oil-based residues (animal fat from food industries, used cooking oil from
restaurants, households and others)
‒ Lignocellulosic residues (crop residues, sawmill residues etc.)
‒ Organic residues and others (e.g., organic urban waste, manure, wild fruits and
crops)

4. Processes

‒ Mechanical/physical (pressing, pre-treatment, milling, separation, distillation)

‒ Biochemical (anaerobic digestion, aerobic and anaerobic fermentation, enzymatic
conversion)
‒ Chemical (hydrolysis, transesterification, hydrogenation, oxidation, pulping)
‒ Thermochemical (pyrolysis, gasification, hydro-thermal upgrading, combustion)

For bio-based chemicals and building blocks, a sub-categorization was provided in 2020 by
the IEA Bioenergy Task 42.765 This is based on the number of carbon contained in the
molecule: C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, C6 and Cn containing compounds.

In 2018, the IEA Bioenergy Task 42 report on Natural Fibres and Fibre-materials in
Biorefineries, presented the following classification for fibres.766

Natural Fibres: produced from plants (cellulose and lignocellulose), animals and from
mineral origin. This type of fibres does not go through chemical modification or man-made
polymerization process. The subcategories of natural fibres are:

‒ Seed fibres (e.g. cotton)

‒ Bast fibres (e.g. ramie, hemp, flax, jute)
‒ Leaf fibres (e.g. sisal, albaca)
‒ Fruit fibres (e.g. coir)
‒ Stalk fibres from agricultural residues (e.g. stalks from wheat, rice, corn)
‒ Soft and hardwoods (engineered wood fibres, wood fibre board, pulp)
‒ Cane, grasses and reed ( e.g. switch grass, sugarcane, bamboo, fresh grass)

Man-made fibres: These fibres are significantly modified natural fibres (so-called
regenerates, mostly cellulose) or synthetic fibres (from man-made monomers that are

polymerized and process into fibres). The following sub-categorization was made for man-
made fibres:

765
IEA Task 42, Bio-based Chemicals, https://www.ieabioenergy.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Task-42-Biobased-
Chemicals-value-added-products-from-biorefineries.pdf
766
Natural Fibres and Fibre-based Materials in Biorefineries IEA Bioenergy Task 42. Status Report 2018

333
 ‒ Modified natural polymers-man -made cellulose fibres (e.g. viscose, lyocell,
cellulose acetate)
‒ Modified natural polymers-non-cellulosic man -made cellulose fibres (e.g. chitosan,
alginate)
‒ Inorganic man-made fibres (e.g. glass fibres, carbon fibre)
‒ Synthetic fibres (e.g. fibres from PLA)

Towards a common classification approach for biorefinery Systems (2009)

Cherubini et al. (2009) considered that bio-based material products include fine chemicals
(such as amino acids, organic acids and extracts) used in the food, chemical or
pharmaceutical industry, and animal feed and fibre products, among others. The selected
subgroups of bio-based material products presented there are767:

‒ Fertilizers
‒ Biohydrogen
‒ Glycerin (from the transesterification of triglycerides)
‒ Chemicals and building blocks (e.g., fine chemicals, aromatics, amino acids, xylitol,
polyols, succinic-, lactic-, levulinic- and itaconic acid, phenols, furan dicarboxylic
acid, furfural, etc.).
‒ Polymers and resins (produced by (bio)chemical conversion of biomass via
monomeric intermediates (e.g., PHA, resins, PLA).
‒ Food
‒ Animal feed
‒ Biomaterials (fibre products, polysaccharides, pulp and paper, panels)

BioRefinery identification, classification and mapping (Euroview-2009)

The Euroview consortium studied the bio-refinery classification and mapping of existing
and future biorefineries in the EU. In this project 2800 industrial stakeholders were
consulted from nine different sectors in sixteen EU countries plus Norway, Switzerland, and
the USA768. The biorefineries are classified by country, by type of biorefinery and type of
product.

For the criterion ‘type of biorefinery’ five categories were identified:

‒ Green Biorefinery: Uses wet biomass (green grass lucerne clover)

‒ Cereal & Whole crop Biorefinery: uses cereals, maize, starch, sugar crops.
‒ Oilseed Biorefinery: uses oil crops (rape, sunflower, etc.)
‒ Forest-based and lignocellulose Biorefinery: uses lignocellulosic biomass (wood,
straw, corn, waste)
‒ Multiple feed/integrated Biorefinery: second generation feedstock and biomass no
further specified.

767
Cherubini, Francesco; Jungmeier, Gerfried; Wellisch, Maria; Willke, Thomas; Skiadas, Ioannis; Van Ree, René; de
Jong, Ed. "Toward a common classification approach for biorefinery systems". Modeling and Analysis. 3 (5): 534–
546, 2009.
768
Biorefinery Euroview Project 044275-FP-2005-SSP-5. https://cordis.europa.eu/docs/results/44/44275/123655621-
6_en.pdf

334
Alternatively, a categorization was made considering the type of product. The Euroview
project used a five-product type classification:

‒ Food and Feed

‒ Biofuels
‒ Heat and Power
‒ Biomaterials

European Biorefinery Strategy Road Map & Vision 2030 (Star-Colibri 2011)

The European Biorefinery Joint Strategic Research Roadmap769 shows the challenges and
strategic research areas that must be developed in order to accelerate the biorefinery
vision and bio based economy in Europe by 2030. This study points out that the
manufacture of bulk and specialty chemicals, biofuels, materials and other bio-based
derived products will depend heavily on the efficiency of the pretreatment process to
fractionate, separate and purify the biomass.

Regarding product development a lot is mentioned on the need to develop bio-based

products with specific functionalities and high added value. This type of products can take
advantage of the native properties of biomass and can provide at least the same level of
quality as the fossil-based counterparts.

The Star Colibri project, also uses as reference the classification system from IEA Bioenergy
Task 42. The schematic representation in the roadmap and the vision showed that product
classification has the following sub-categories:

‒ Food and Feed

‒ Energy products
‒ Materials and Chemicals

The Joint European Biorefinery Vision 2030770 also refers to a more general classification
by industry:

‒ Agro-industry
‒ Forest-based industry
‒ Chemical Industry
‒ Biofuels industry

According to the biorefinery concepts 2030, new biorefinery types that are envisage to be
used are:

‒ Starch & Sugar Biorefineries: Processing starch and sugar crops (cereals, potatoes,
sugar cane and beet)
‒ Oilseed Biorefinery: Producing mainly food, feed, biodiesel and oleochemicals from
oilseed such as rape, sunflower and soybean.

769
Luguel, C, Annevelink E, Laurmaa J, von Weymarn N. European Biorefinery Joint Strategic Research Roadmap to
2020, Start-Colibri, Deliverable D, 2011
770
Luguel, C, Annevelink E, Burel C, Gosse G. Joint European Biorefinery Vision 2030, Start-Colibri, Deliverable D,
2011.

335
 ‒ Green Biorefinery: Processing wet biomass such as, grass, clover, Lucerne or alfalfa
to produce nutrients as proteins, amino acids, organic acids, minerals, hormones
and enzymes.
‒ Lignocellulosic Biorefinery: Processing a wide range of lignocellulose biomass to
separate it in: cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin for the production of alcohols,
organic acid and solvent from the cellulose; xylose, gelling agents, furfural and
other chemicals to nylon binders and adhesives.
‒ Aquatic (marine) Biorefinery: processing micro- algae and seaweed to end products
ranging from fuels, bulk chemicals, food and feed.
The Star-Colibri 2030 vision mentions that specific opportunities in the chemical sector for
2030 will lie in: having bio-based molecular structures similar to bulk chemicals from fossil
origin and the development of new molecules with new functionalities and applications. It
also presented the projected values of world chemicals production by 2025 (bio-based &
fossil-based) according to USDA/OECD figures, which divide the chemical sector in four
categories: Commodity, Specialty, Fine and Polymer.

336
Annex II - WP 1 Classification System Definitions

Feedstock

Primary biomass refers to the new biomaterial (biomass) produced via photosynthesis and
capable to capture and store carbon during the growing period.771

‒ Aquatic biomass: Aquatic biomass is composed of diverse species of micro and

macroalgae, cyanobacteria and aquatic plants. It has high oil and biomass yields,
widespread availability, absent (or very reduced) competition with agricultural land,
high quality and versatility of the by-products.772
‒ Lignocellulosic from croplands and grasslands: plant biomass containing cellulose
with varying amounts of lignin. These crops are grown in cropland areas include
short rotation coppice, (e.g. poplar, willow, birch, eucalyptus, etc), frutal trees and
vegetables as well as, all type of grasses (e.g. Miscanthus, ryegrass, switchgrass,
reed canary grass, rye, and giant reed grass) and other, grass-like plants and
herbaceous plants.
‒ Lignocellulosic wood/forestry: This is lignocellulosic biomass like round wood, sawn
logs, fuelwood, softwood, hardwood produced in woodland areas.
‒ Oil Crops: are plants whose seeds, fruits or mesocarp and nuts are valued for the
extraction of the edible or industrial oils that are extracted from them. Besides the
most known oil crops (palm, soybean, rapeseed and sunflower, olive ), many other
crops such as, canola, mustard, flax, jatropha, coconut, hemp, and pennycress are
good resources of oil. 773
‒ Starch crops: Starch-based feedstock include edible grains, such as corn or wheat,
and tubers such as (sweet) potatoes and cassava. These feedstocks contain long
complex chains of sugar molecules. The starch can easily be converted to
fermentable sugars.29
‒ Sugar crops: There are two major sugar crops: sugar beets and sugar cane which
are use for the production of chemicals and materials. However, sugar and syrups
are also produced from the sap of certain species of maple trees, from sweet
sorghum when cultivated explicitly for making syrup and from sugar palm.774

On the other hand, we set a new category called secondary biomass.775 The secondary
biomass is formed during the processing, conversion of biomass or decomposition of
organic matter. It is a category of side-products, residues. These include:

‒ Microbial biomass: The microbial biomass is generated mostly by some bacteria,

protist and fungi, which decompose plant and animal residues, as well as organic
matter in soil and substrates.776
‒ Residues from agriculture: by-products of the processing of agricultural products
(residue from cotton ginning, olive pits, fruit pits, etc.).
‒ Residues from forestry and forest-based industries: material cleared from forests
to protect them from forest fires, as well as by-products, residues wells as recycled
products from woody biomass industries.

771
https://www.marquard-bahls.com/en/news-info/glossary/detail/term/biomass.html
772
P. Biller, Hydrothermal liquefaction of aquatic Feedstocks. Direct Thermochemical Liquefaction for Energy
Applications, Woodhead Publishing, Pages 101-125, 2018.
773
http://www.etipbioenergy.eu/value-chains/feedstocks/agriculture/starch-crops
774
http://www.fao.org/es/faodef/fdef03e.HTM#3.01
775
https://www.marquard-bahls.com/en/news-info/glossary/detail/term/biomass.html
776
http://soilquality.org.au/factsheets/microbial-biomass

337
 ‒ Residues from nature and landscape management (green biomass from nature and
landscape management)
‒ Other organic residues include: biodegradable fraction of municipal waste, animal
fat from slaughterhouse and food industry, residues generated during grazing and
livestock operations (manure).

Conversion Processes

The biochemical conversion summarizes processes that use biological processes that
involve microorganisms, which occur at mild conditions (lower temperature and pressure).

‒ Aerobic conversion: Aerobic process is the process that relies on microorganisms

that thrive under aerobic conditions i.e. where plenty of oxygen is available and a
sufficient amount of food is present.777
‒ Anaerobic digestion: also known as methanization is a series of biological processes
in which microorganisms break down biodegradable material in the absence of
oxygen. The end products of anaerobic digestion are a digestate (for biological
fertilizer production) and a biogas778, that roughly consist of methane (CH4), carbon
dioxide (CO2) and small amounts of hydrogen sulphide (H2S), water and
siloxanes.779
‒ Enzymatic Process: Enzymes are biocatalysts, therefore any chemical reaction or
series of reactions catalysed by an enzyme is described as an enzymic or enzymatic
process.780 An enzyme is a protein which acts as a highly selective catalyst
permitting reactions to take place rapidly in living cells under physiological
conditions. This type of process play a key role in biorefineries for the
biochemical/biological conversion. First generation and second generation biofuel
production processes use enzymes for conversion of structural polymers to
monomers so that these can then be fermented to the desired fuel by yeast or
bacteria. 781
‒ Fermentation: is an anaerobic process that breaks down the glucose within organic
materials. It is a series of biochemical reactions that convert sugars to alcohol or
acid. Yeast or bacteria are added to the biomass material, which feed on the sugars
to produce ethanol and carbon dioxide.782
‒ Insect-based bioconversion: also known as insect farming is based on the selection
of insect species e.g. Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae, house fly maggots, mealworms,
and grasshoppers-crickets and different rearing substrates. The main benefits of
this conversion process are reduction of waste by producing high quality protein
(mainly for animal feed) and the extraction of by-products such as oil, natural
fertilizer, chitin.783

Chemical processes are those processes which cause a change in the chemical structure of
a molecule by reacting with other substances. (e.g., hydrolysis, transesterification,
hydrogenation, oxidation, pulping).784

777
Waste Management Series . Chapter 8 - Biological Processes. Volume 5,Pages 171-218, 2006.
778
https://americanbiogascouncil.org/resources/what-is-anaerobic-digestion/
779
https://www.biofit-h2020.eu/publications-reports/BioFitHandbook-2020-03-18.pdf
780
T.S.S. Dikshith.Hazardous Chemicals: Safety Management and Global Regulations, CRC Press.
782
https://www.eubia.org/cms/wiki-biomass/fermentation/
783
H. P. S. Makkar, G. Tran, V. Heuzé, and P. Ankers,“State-of-the-art on use of insects as animal feed,”Anim. Feed
Sci. Technol., vol. 197, pp. 1–33, Nov. 2014.
784
Francesco Cherubini, The biorefinery concept: Using biomass instead of oil for producing energy and chemicals,
Energy Conversion and Management, Volume 51, Issue 7,2010.

338
 ‒ Catalytic: a chemical process control by the use of catalysts, to selectively increase
the rate of chemical reactions. The action of catalysts serve to decrease the energy
needed to perform certain chemical reactions, as well as to selectively breakdown
certain chemicals.
‒ Esterification: mainly the reaction between alcohols and carboxylic acids or acyl
chlorides or acid anhydrides to make esters.785 Esters can have different
applications like: solvents, flavours, fragrances, pharmaceuticals and agricultural,
plasticizer.786
‒ Hydrogenation: is a reaction in which hydrogen atoms are added to an unsaturated
compound to reduce the double and triple bonds. Molecular hydrogen and other
transfer hydrogenation compounds are used as hydrogen source in the reaction.787
This process is relevant to upgrade bio-intermediates to chemical building blocks.788
‒ Hydrolysis: is a chemical reaction in which water is used to break down the bonds
of a particular substance. In practical terms, hydrolysis means the act of separating
chemicals when water is added. There are three main types of hydrolysis: salt, acid,
and base hydrolysis.789
‒ Methanation: is the chemical reaction by which carbon oxides and hydrogen are
converted to methane and water with the aid of a catalyst. In industry, there are
two main uses for methanation, to purify synthesis gas (i.e. remove traces of carbon
oxides) and to manufacture methane.790
‒ Chemical pulping: is the process to separate cellulose fibres from biomass (mainly
wood) and can be done by mechanical, chemical or thermomechanical/chemical
processes.791 Several chemical pulping processes exist, the most common is using
sodium sulphate (kraft) and the secondly one using sodium sulphite, while the
processes e.g. using ionic solvents, supercritical CO2 are upcoming as more
environmentally friendly ones. The Kraft process dominates the chemical pulping
process due to the superior pulp strength properties and its applicability to all wood
species.792
‒ Steam reforming: is a widely used process for the generation of hydrogen-rich
synthesis gas from light carbohydrates (including biomass and biomass-derived
compounds). The steam reforming of biomass derived compounds is a promising
strategy for bio-hydrogen production. The main challenges of this technology is the
identification of catalysts and operating conditions for each feed material to produce
the highest yield of hydrogen.793
‒ Water electrolysis: During the electrolysis, electricity is used to split water into
oxygen and hydrogen. The hydrogen can be used as a fuel or it can be combined
with carbon dioxide from biogenic origin in order to further convert the hydrogen to
hydrocarbons through synthesis processes. This process is commonly integrated in
gasification and pyrolysis processes to produce hydrogen.794
‒ Water gas shift: The water gas shift process enables adjustment of the CO/H2 ratio
of the syngas obtained in gasification processes by reacting the syngas with steam.
The water is broken down into hydrogen and oxygen, the latter reacting with some
of the CO in the syngas stream to produce CO2. Thus the H2/CO ratio is adjusted,
although excess CO2 may need to be separated from the gas stream. There are two

785
https://www.chemguide.co.uk/organicprops/alcohols/esterification.html
786
https://science.jrank.org/pages/2572/Ester.html
787
Kohli, K.; Prajapati, R.; Sharma, B.K. Bio-Based Chemicals from Renewable Biomass for Integrated Biorefineries.
Energies 2019, 12, 233,2019.
788
Energies, 12(2), 233, 2019.
789
https://www.thoughtco.com/what-is-hydrolysis-375589
790
https://matthey.com/en/products-and-services/chemical-processes/chemical-catalysts/methanation-catalysts.
791
http://www.cepi.org/node/22334
792
Best Available Techniques (BAT) Reference Document for the Production of Pulp, Paper and Board,” pp. 195, 369,
487,2015.
793
https://www.nrel.gov/docs/legosti/old/36262.pdf
794
https://www.biofit-h2020.eu/publications-reports/BioFitHandbook-2020-03-18.pdf

339
 main configurations of the gas shift reaction; the clean gas shift and the raw gas
shift.795

In the thermochemical processes, feedstock usually undergoes extreme conditions (high

temperature and/or pressure, with or without a catalyst).

‒ Combustion: is a chemical reaction of a fuel in presence of an oxidizer (commonly

oxygen) and heat. The fuel and the oxidizer react together to form new chemical
substances, often gaseous products.796
‒ Gasification: Gasification process converts carbon-based raw material into fuel
gas(also known as syngas). The process occurs, generally at high
temperature/pressure in presence of controlled amount of oxygen (or air) and
steam. Syngas is composed of carbon monoxide and hydrogen and can be burned
directly or be used as a starting point to manufacture fertilizers, pure hydrogen,
methane or liquid transportation fuels such gasoline and diesel. 797
‒ Hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) is a process to increase the energy content of wet
organic containing streams, through this process biomass can be converted into a
heavy oil (biocrude) product without drying. Black liquor, lignin, sawdust sludge or
other organic containing feedstock can be converted into a bio crude by HTL and
from the hydrogenation of this heavy fuel oil, products like diesel, kerosene, or
other (chemical) end-products are made.798
‒ Pyrolysis: is a process, where in the absence of oxygen (dried) organic material is
thermally cracked at temperatures between 400 °C and 600 °C producing a
combustible gas, pyrolysis oil and char. There are roughly three different types of
pyrolysis with a different ratio of the three products: slow (mainly char), medium
(both char and pyrolysis oil) and fast (mainly pyrolysis oil), thought slow pyrolysis
also called carbonization.799
‒ Supercritical conversion: The supercritical conversion processes take place at
temperatures and pressures above the critical point of water.800 Main super critical
conversion processes of biomass are: supercritical water gasification (SCWG) and
the supercritical water oxidation. Supercritical water oxidation is used particularly
for degradation of harmful and toxic materials. 801 On the other hand SCWG of
biomass is a promising conversion route for wet biomass and waste streams into
hydrogen and/or methane.58
‒ Torrefaction & Carbonization: are thermal process to convert biomass into a coal-
like material, with higher energy density and hydrophobic characteristics compare
the original biomass.802

Mechanical processes do not change the chemical structure of the biomass, but only the
morphology and composition. e.g. a size reduction, densification change (density and size
and shape) or separation of feedstock components. Mechanical processes are important

795
D.J. Roddy, C. Manson-Whitton, Biomass Gasification and Pyrolysis, Comprehensive Renewable Energy,
Elsevier,2012.
796
Biorefinery: Integrated Sustainable Processes for Biomass Conversion to Biomaterials, Biofuels, and Fertilizers.
Bastidas-Oyanedel J.R, Schmidt J. Springer, 15 Apr. 2019.
797
https://netl.doe.gov/research/Coal/energy-systems/gasification/gasifipedia/intro-to-gasification
798
https://www.biofit-h2020.eu/publications-reports/BioFitHandbook-2020-03-18.pdf
799
Annevelink, E., Bos, H & Meesters, K., Van den Oever, M. Circular Solutions Part IV from Waste to Resource
February 2016.
800
https://research.utwente.nl/en/publications/on-the-gasification-of-wet-biomass-in-supercritical-water-over-de
801
Akgül, G. Supercritical Conversion of Biomass. In Transformation of Biomass, A., 2014.
802
https://www.btgworld.com/en/rtd/technologies/

340
for feedstock to meet the quality requirements for prior biochemical and thermochemical
conversion or further processing of biomass fibres.

‒ Blending or mixing: is used to modify the specification of streams for different

purposes. For instance blending feedstocks in order to meet required emission or
to aminimize ash production during power generation or in the animal feed industry,
when a variety of feedstocks are blended to meet the desired nutritional
requirements for a specific animal. 803
‒ Extraction: is a recovery and purification technology. It includes liquid-liquid
extraction and solid phase extraction. Impurities or valuable compounds are
extracted and /or concentrated from a bulk phase by using a solvent that has an
affinity with desired compound. This technology is often used with compounds that
have a are higher boiling point than water, resulting in lower energy requirement
than distillation.804
‒ Fibre Separation: is the process of separation of fibres from non-fibrous cellular
tissues and the woody part of the stem through dissolution and decomposition of
pectins, gums and other mucilaginous substance. The process may employ e.g.
bacteria and moisture to dissolve or rot away the cellular tissues and other
substances surrounding bast-fibre bundles, through their enzymatic action loosens
the fibre strands and facilitates the separation of the fibre from the stem. The fibres
are then mechanically extracted, washed, dried and marketed and the whole
process is known as retting. Improper retting may lead to bad or inferior quality of
fibre in spite of good crop.805
‒ Mechanical and thermomechanical disruption & fractionation: are processes to
modify the shape, particle size, bulk density and/or moisture of biomass. Theses
process use mechanical energy to separate the primary raw samples into a liquid
fraction, green juice and a solids fraction.806,.807 Mechanical pressing for the
industrial extraction of seed oils, screw press, biomass spraying and steam
explosion are also included.
‒ Separation: Separation processes involve the separation of a substrate into its
components, e.g. distillation, evaporation, crystallization and filtration, membrane
separation.

Platforms

‒ Biochar: Biochar is a solid material obtained from the carbonization and

thermochemical conversion of biomass in an oxygen-limited environments and
temperatures <700°C. 808 Biochar primary application is use as a soil amendment
with the intention to improve soil functions; contrary charcoal which main use is as
a fuel. Biomass waste materials are appropriate for biochar production include crop
residues (both field residues and processing residues such as nut shells, fruit pits,
bagasse, etc.), as well as yard, food and forestry wastes, and animal manures.
‒ Bio-coal: Biocoal is a material with a higher energy content per unit volume
produced via torrefaction and usually converted into pellets to facilitate transport
and avoid problems associated with decomposition during storage. The common
raw material is wood, but it is also possible to use bark.809

803
https://www.intechopen.com/books/biomass-volume-estimation-and-valorisation-for-energy/biomass-blending-and-
densification-impacts-on-feedstock-supply-and-biochemical-conversion-performanc
804
https://kochmodular.com/liquid-liquid-extraction/industrial-applications/
805
https://gauravkanaujia.webs.com/documents/R%20N%20Meena.pdf
806
http://resolver.tudelft.nl/uuid:50100136-e393-47be-be19-d25bc4f5d27e
807
Yoshida, T., Sasaki, H., Takano, T., & Sawabe, O. “Dewatering of high-moisture wood chips by roller compression
method”. Biomass and bioenergy,34(7), 1053-1058, 2010.
808
https://biochar-international.org/faqs/
809
http://www.etipbioenergy.eu/value-chains/products-end-use/intermediates/torrefied-pellets

341
 ‒ Bio-crude: Bio-crude is a thickened liquid that that can be solid at room
temperature. It is produced by biomass hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) or
hydrothermal upgrading (HTU). Bio-crude is closer in properties to petroleum than
bio-oils but it is not a direct analogous to crude petroleum. The remaining oxygen
from the biomass contributes chemical functionality of the bio-crude that is not
present in petroleum.810,811
‒ Biogas: Biogas (mainly CH4 and CO2 and impurities such as H2S) is produced from
anaerobic digestion of organic residues. After purification it can be used for heat
and power generation. Biogas has between 50-70% CH4 but it can be upgraded to
97-99% purity to be used as potential substitute of natural gas. The digestate
associate to the anaerobic digestion can be used for biological fertilizer production
e.g. through crystallisation process of struvite within the digestate thus replacing
the demand for fossil-based fertilisers.
‒ Bio-naphtha: is a mixture of C5- C10 hydrocarbon compounds which are volatile and
flammable and can substitute naphtha from petroleum refining due its similar
physical and chemical properties. Diverse biomass feedstock such as: palm oil,
rapeseed oil, soybean oil, jatropha oil, camelina oil, waste animal fat and vegetable
oil residues can be used for bio-naphtha production. The conversion process
catalytically converts fatty acids and / or glycerides into waste greases and
vegetable oils and algae into paraffinic hydrocarbon fractions without residual
oxygenates. This process can convert long-chain hydrocarbons into hydrocarbons
with shorter chains with the help of a catalyst.812,813
‒ Bio-oil: Bio-oils mean oils derived from biomass. They include a variety of organic
products such as vegetable oil, microalgae oil, tall oil, fatty, grease, used oil. Thus,
their naming should depend on the biomass from which they derive and the
technique of production. The main constituents of bio-oils are in the group of lipids.
Oil and fat are esters formed between glycerol and fatty acids.
‒ C5 /C6 Sugars: C5 (e.g. xylose, arabinose) and C6 (e.g. glucose, fructose,
galactose) sugars are present in different feedstock and are relatively easy to
extract. Theses sugars are released from hydrolysis of sucrose, starch, cellulose,
hemicellulose and food and feed side streams. Extraction is easier from sugar crops
such as sugarcane, sugar beet, and sweet sorghum.
‒ Carbon dioxide: Carbon dioxide generated (fully or partially) from biomass that is
capture and treated for further processing into higher added value products like
chemicals.814
‒ Hydrogen: Biohydrogen can be obtained from water-gas shift reaction, steam
reforming, water electrolysis and fermentation. It might be used either as raw
material (chemical reactant) for hydrotreatment of oils, hydrogenation of sugars
and ammonia production or as an energy source.
‒ Lignin: Lignin is produced from fractionation of lignocellulosic biomass and is the
second most abundant fraction behind cellulose. Lignin is mostly combusted for
process steam and electricity generation in the wood processing installations. Only
a marginal part of the lignin produced worldwide is yet valorised into other products
such as dispersant in cement and gypsum, emulsifier and chelating agent in
treatment of industrial effluents, tyre additive, resins and chemicals like vanillin and
phenolic based aromatic compounds.815

810
https://task34.ieabioenergy.com/bio-crude/
811
https://www.ce.nl/en/publications/352/the-htu-process-as-part-of-the-energy-transition
812
Bio-Naphtha as Alternative for Olefins Feedstock in Indonesia International Journal of Chemical Engineering and
Applications, Vol. 10, No. 3, June 2019
813
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2012/10/neste-20121029.html
814
https://www.agro-chemistry.com/news/bioreco2ver-turning-co2-chemicals-using-bioconversion/
815
Sun Y, Cheng J. Hydrolysis of lignocellulosic materials for ethanol production. A review. Bioresour Technol;83:1–11,
2002.

342
 ‒ Organic Fibre: Fibres are produced during the processing of biomass, (e.g.,
lignocellulose, press cake and hulls). For example press cake fibres can be utilized
as green feed pellets, processed to fibre products or potentially used as raw material
for other platforms (e.g. grass juice, sugarcane bagasse). Fibres can be used to
make material for building, insulation, and packaging applications, biocomposites,
biofuel feedstock and other products.816
‒ Organic Juice: Organic juice is a liquid mixture produced after the pressing of wet
biomass. Processing fresh wet biomass (grass, alfalfa, immature cereals) involves
dewatering to obtain two separate intermediates: a nutrient-rich juice organic
solution and a press cake. Both intermediates are starting points for various
valorisation pathways. The organic juice can contain valuable compounds:
carbohydrates, proteins, free amino acids, organic acids, minerals, hormones and
enzymes.817
‒ Protein: Plant based proteins can be extracted from various crops, agro-residues,
press cakes, algae and grass. Proteins are essential for animal and human diets.
After further processing and purification the production protein isolates and
concentrates (containing essential amino acids) are feasible for new class of
formulated foods.818 Additionally, proteins are used for other industrial applications
such as adhesives, coatings, surfactants and plastics.819
‒ Pyrolysis Liquid: Pyrolysis liquid results from the thermochemical decomposition of
solid biomass in partial or complete absence of oxygen in order to avoid combustion.
Pyrolysis liquids are complex mixtures of water, guaiacols, catechols, syringols,
vanillin, isoeugenol, pyrenes, diverse carboxylic acids and heterogeneous product
that can involve several hundreds of compounds.
‒ Starch: Starch is used as intermediate products for further used in the food and
drinks industry.820 Modified and regular starch finds diverse application such in
cosmetics, pharmaceutical, adhesives, bioplastics.
‒ Syngas: Synthesis gas (syngas) is mixture of carbon monoxide, hydrogen,
methane, carbon dioxide and nitrogen produced from biomass gasification. After
cleaning the gas cleaning it can be used as a fuel for heat and power generation.
Depending on the gasification conditions the gas can also be conditioned. During
this process mainly the ratio H2/CO is adjusted, followed by thermal or biochemical
processing for the production of chemicals and liquid biofuels. Syngas can also be
fermented to produce methanol, ethanol and ammonia and potentially other
building blocks.821

Product Groups

Chemicals: The sub-category groups for chemicals is related to the market applications.

‒ Additives: are chemical substances that are added in small quantities to another
product or chemical substance to improve its properties or impart other desirable
properties.822 Some examples include: epoxidized vegetable oils and epoxidized
fatty acid esters.
‒ Agrochemicals: chemicals used in agriculture to aid plants and crops growth, to
protect agricultural crops from pests and for augmenting crop yields.823 These

816
Natural Fibres and Fibre-based Materials in Biorefineries IEA Bioenergy Task 42. Status Report 2018
817
https://biorrefineria.blogspot.com/p/plataformas-de-biorrefineria.html
818
https://www.slideshare.net/abhishekindurkar/protein-isolates-and-concentrates
819
Proteins for Food, Feed and Biobased Applications Biorefining of protein containing biomass
820
https://www.ieabioenergy.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IEA-Bioenergy-Task42-Biorefining-Brochure-
SEP2014_LR.pdf
821
Jong E., IEA Bioenergy Task 42. Biobased chemicals, 2020
822
Lee C.C., Environmental Engineering Dictionary. 4th Edition, 2005.
823
https://www.worldofchemicals.com/629/chemistry-articles/agrochemicals-types-and-their-effects.html

343
 chemicals are also produced under Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) to avoid
contamination.
‒ Building blocks: also known as platform chemicals, are starting materials use to
manufacture other chemical compounds and a broad range products.
‒ Colorants: Colorants include dyes, pigments or inks. Dyes are water soluble
compounds, usually applied to textiles. Pigments are insoluble in water used in
paints, ceramics and plastics. They are applied by dispersion in a suitable
medium.824 Inks are more complex liquids or pastes containing dyes or pigments.825
Some examples are dyes from pomegranate rind, acacia tree, anthocyanins,
flavines, indigonoids 826,827
‒ Cosmeceuticals: are chemical substances such as essential oils, vitamins,
antioxidants, hormones, alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), intended to be in contact with
the external parts of the human body or with the teeth. Cosmeceuticals have
exclusively or mainly functions to cleaning, perfume or change the appearance of
externa body parts and protecting them or keeping them in good condition.828
‒ Flavours & Fragrances: are chemical compounds that have a smell, odor or flavour.
They must be sufficiently volatile to be transported to the olfactory and gustatory
systems. The chemicals structures of these compounds can be diverse and include:
esters, terpenes, aromatics, amines and alcohols that can be found in can be found
in food, wine, spices, floral scent, perfumes, fragrance oils, and essential oils.829
‒ Lubricants: are substances (liquids, but also solids or semi-solids) used to facilitate
the motion of solid bodies by minimizing friction and wear between interacting
surfaces.830 Bio-based lubricants are usually triglyceride esters (fats obtained from
plants) and can be derived from vegetal oils include high oleic canola oil, castor oil,
palm oil, sunflower seed oil, rapeseed oil, and tall oil from tree sources. The
vegetable oils are often hydrolysed to yield the acids which are selectively combined
to form specialist synthetic esters.831
‒ Nutraceuticals: Nutraceuticals are substances derived from food sources with extra
health benefits in addition to the basic nutrition. They are used for preventing health
and wellbeing in human beings or animal. Nutraceuticals are sold in the form of
pills, or powder or other medicinal forms, not usually associated with foods.832
‒ Paints & Coatings: The four main constituents of paints and coatings are solvents,
binders, pigments and additives. Bio based paints and coatings contain at least
some bio-based elements. A minimum bio-based share of about 12.5%-60% is
required to categorized a paint and coating as bio based product depending on the
type of paint.833,834
‒ Pharmaceuticals: is chemical substance or a combination of substances administer
to human beings to restore, correct or modify physiological functions and to treat a

824
https://www.essentialchemicalindustry.org/materials-and-applications/colorants.html
825
http://www.chemistryislife.com/the-chemistry-of-ink
826
https://www.foodcolor.com/natural-pigments
827
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/281113520_Extraction_of_natural_dye_Pomegranate_rind_and_its_fastn
ess_properties
828
Guidance document on the demarcation between the cosmetic products directive 76/768 and the medicinal
products directive 2001/83 as greed between the commission services and the competent authorities of member
states.
829
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aroma_compound
830
Bart J.C, Gucciardi E., Cavallaro S., 3 - Lubricants: properties and characteristics, In Woodhead Publishing Series in
Energy, Biolubricants, Woodhead Publishing, Pages 24-73. 2013.
831
Syahir A.Z., N.W.M. Zulkifli, H.H. Masjuki, A review on bio-based lubricants and their applications, Journal of
Cleaner Production, Volume 168, Pages 997-1016, 2017.
832
Das L, Bhaumik E, Raychaudhuri U, Chakraborty R. Role of nutraceuticals in human health. J Food Sci
Technol;49(2):173-83, 2012.
833
https://www.biopreferred.gov/BioPreferred/faces/pages/ProductCategories.xhtml
834
https://biobasedprocurement.eu/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Biobased-Coating.pdf

344
 medical condition.835 Pharmaceuticals must contain, Active pharmaceutical
ingredients (APIs) and are produced under Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP).
‒ Solvents: are compounds that are able to dissolve other substances without modify
their chemical structure.
‒ Surfactants: is a substance formed by organic compounds that contain hydrophobic
groups and hydrophilic groups which lowers the surface tension of the medium in
which it is dissolved, and/or the interfacial tension with other phases.836 This sub-
category includes soaps, wetting agents and detergents.
‒ Catalysts & Enzymes: A catalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a reaction
without being consumed in the reaction.837 Enzymes are highly specific biological
catalysts. Plant-derived enzymes include amylase, invertase, papain, bromelain,
ficin and lipoxygenas have played an important part in food production, such as,
syrups, bakery products, alcoholic beverages, dairy products.838 Additionally new
bio based catalyst like activated carbon can be produce from renewable biomass.839

Materials:

‒ Composites: are a combination of two or more components (materials) from natural

or synthetic origin that together provide better properties.840 Composites are usually
a fibre or particulate material in a matrix or continue phase that is commonly a
polymer, metal, or ceramic 841. Examples of composites are: Natural composites
(e.g. wood, mud bricks (mud+straw), bones) and bio-based derived composites
manufactured with natural fibres and synthetic fossil-derived polymers or vice versa
(PLA/flax composites, paper).
‒ Fibres: are natural or man-made substance with a thread like body aspect that is
significantly longer than it is wide (diameter< 1 mm).842 Examples of fibres are:
Natural Fibres (e.g. wool, jute, hemp, sisal, abaca, coir fibres, silk, microfibrillated
cellulose) and bio-based derived fibres (e.g. polycaprolactam (Nylon 6),
Poly(hexamethylene adipamide) (Nylon 66), polyamid-11 (Nylon11))
‒ Organic fertilizers: are materials derived from animal products and plant residues
containing sufficient nitrogen.843 Naturally occurring organic fertilizers include:
(green) manure, slurry, worm castings, peat, seaweed, greensand (anaerobic
marine deposits), humic acid, guano, sewage sludge, compost, bloodmeal, bone
meal, digest.844
‒ Polymers: are natural or synthetic substances composed of macromolecules with
high relative molecular mass and with a structure that comprises the multiple
repetition of units.845 Examples of polymers are: Natural polymers (e.g. starch,
natural rubber, lignin, cellulose, chitin, pectin) and bio-based derived polymers (e.g.
polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), Polyethylene 2,5-
furandicarboxylate (PEF), Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), polylactic acid (PLA),
Polybutylene succinate (PSB)).

835
https://www.pharmaguideline.com/2011/09/terminology-definitions-in.html
836
Compendium of Chemical Terminology, 2nd ed. (the "Gold Book") Online version created by S. J. Chalk. 2019 ISBN
0-9678550-9-8.
837
https://goldbook.iupac.org/terms/view/C00876
838
Enzymes in Food Biotechnology Production, Applications, and Future Prospects, Chapter 28 - Plant-Derived
Enzymes: A Treasure for Food Biotechnology. Pages 483-502, 2019.
839
Emrani J, Shahbazi A. A Single Bio-based Catalyst for Bio-fuel and Bio-diesel. J Biotechnol Biomaterial 2:124, 2012.
840
http://compositeslab.com/composites-101/what-are-composites/
841
F.C. Campbell , Structural Composite Materials Copyright ©, ASM International®, 2010.
842
Griffith E, Phosphate Fibres, Springer US.1995.
843
https://stats.oecd.org/glossary/detail.asp?ID=1921
844
http://www.fao.org/tc/exact/sustainable-agriculture-platform-pilot-website/nutrients-and-soil-fertility-
management/organic-fertilizers-including-manure-and-compost/en/
845
https://iupac.org/polymer-edu/what-are-polymers/

345
 ‒ Resins: are defined as a solid or high viscous substance (complex mix of organic
compounds) of natural or synthetic origin, practically insoluble in water.846 The
material or substance is uncured (no chemical or physical action has occurred in
order to make the material harder, tougher or more stable).847 Examples of natural
resins are: rosin, shellac, copal, respin and bio-based derived resins: bio-based
polyurethane resins, epoxy resins, alkyd resins.

846
https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/ethnobotany/resins.shtml
847
NEN-EN 16245-2:2013 en

346
Annex III - WP 2 Specific drivers and barriers factsheets

Drivers for, and barriers to, bio-based uptake of Propylene Glycol

Category Drivers Barriers

1: Business PG used in variety of products and is in high Most bio-based PG produced outside EU
demand PG production tied to biodiesel production
Available raw materials Covid-19

2: Existing technology to convert glycerol to PG IP can be an issue when companies decide to

Innovation Green hydrogen can improve GHG balance expand to new areas
New technologies like UPM’s offering alternative
pathways to PG

3: Economy Adding value to glycerol waste streams Dependency on volatile biodiesel markets for
Ethylene glycol as side product feedstock

4: Feedstock Glycerol readily available from biodiesel Soy and palm oil are not produced in Europe
production creating non-EU dependency.
Certified palm oil (low-iLUC) Food competition when using oil crops
Traceability of feedstock
Wood offering an alternative

5: Climate Bio-based PG 40-60% lower GHG emissions than Deforestation due oil crop plantations and
change and with fossil-based consequential effects
environment Low-iLUC palm oil. High land usage requirement and fertilizers
Using animal fats increase the use of lands
via animal husbandry
Hydrogen needed (fossil origin)
Legislation does not consider the true cost of
carbon emission
6: Citizen ISCC certified woody biomass as raw material. Human rights violations
and Society This certification also covers social aspects Health issues
Use of toxic methanol in biodiesel production

7: Policy Biodiesel industry drivers Phasing out palm oil via RED2
and Funding/policies supporting 3rd generations Limitations for diesel cars
regulation biofuels and green hydrogen Requirement for higher fuel efficiencies
Possible introduction of sustainable purchasing Increase in electric and hydrogen mobility
policies
Possible support for non-food oil crops.
Lift CO2-price on the level of the effects of GHG
emissions
Future increase of policy support for chemicals
and materials from biomass

Business drivers and barriers

The bio-based version of Propylene glycol (PG) is a drop-in commodity chemical used in
multiple industries. It finds it use in chemicals, cosmetics, paints and coatings industry,
agri-food industry, and pharmaceutical industry 848,849. It can be used as a surfactant,
moisturizer, antifreeze agent, solvent and as preservative848. Main applications of PG are
in manufacturing of unsaturated polyester resins and as de-icers and antifreeze agents849.

In 2018, the global PG market was estimated between 2 and 2.5 million tonnes from which
bio-based PG was 5% (100 ktonnes – 125 ktonnes) 850. The compound annual growth rate

848
Biddy, Mary J., Scarlata, Christopher, and Kinchin C. Chemicals from Biomass: A Market Assessment of Bioproducts
with Near-Term Potential.; 2016. doi:10.2172/1244312
849
Joshi S. GT-ProG: Green Technology to Produce Propylene Glycol from Glycerin derived from Bio-diesel Process.
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/gt-prog-green-technology-produce-propylene-glycol-from-sachin-joshi/ .
Published 2016. Accessed July 27, 2020
850
Nachtergaele P, De Meester S, Dewulf J. Environmental sustainability assessment of renewables-based propylene
glycol at full industrial scale production. J Chem Technol Biotechnol. 2019;94(6):1808-1815.
doi:10.1002/jctb.5951

347
is estimated at 4.4% 851. The European share in bio-based PG is estimated at 3% with 20
ktonnes production from glycerol while the fossil production is 633 kta 852. Most of the bio-
based PG is produced outside Europe, in the US and in China 853.

It is considerably more expensive to produce PG via a bio-based based route. In 2018 the
costs of producing bio-based PG (from glycerol) was estimated at 1.68 €/kg, compared to
1.01 €/kg for the fossil-based PG 852. The price of fossil-based PG is tied to propylene prices
and consequently to crude oil prices, whereas bio-based PG prices are related to crude
glycerol prices. The price of propylene was before Covid-19 approximately 68 cents /kg 854
while crude glycerol was 18 cents/kg 855. Effect of the Covid-19 pandemic and associated
lower mobility resulted in reduced biodiesel production and consequently reduced the
availability of crude glycerol. A barrier for bio-based PG on the market is that the glycerol
price and availability is linked to the biodiesel-market. This market is volatile and under
influence of oil prices and policies.

Innovation drivers and barriers

PG can be produced refining petroleum via propylene or via four different ways from bio-
based sources848,850,854. One bio-based route is known as the oleochemical route in which
animal fats or vegetable oils are hydrolysed to produce fatty acids. As a side-product
glycerol is formed which can be then hydrogenolysed to PG. Another bio-based route is
known as the biodiesel route in which vegetable oils are esterified to biodiesel also forming
glycerol as a side product. PG is then produced, like in the oleochemical route, via
hydrogenolysis. Approximately, 1kg of glycerol is produced per 10kg of biodiesel or fatty
acid. As a third bio-based option PG can also be produced from corn starch via
hydrogenation to sorbitol and consequential hydrocracking to PG. The bio-based routes to
PG produce minor amounts of ethylene glycol (EG) as a side product 848,856. EG can be sold
to create additional value. It should be noted that both fossil-based and bio-based PG
production requires hydrogen, currently predominantly produced from fossil-sources by
steam reforming of methane. Another bio-based route to produce PG is from woody
biomass where the sugars of the lignocellulosic material are fermented to PG. UPM has
ongoing project in Leuna (Germany) to start production of EG with PG as major side product
857, 858
.

Currently due the availability of glycerol and its low-cost price it remains to be the most
preferred bio-based route to PG 859. The environmental sustainability of bio-based PG
production would be significantly improved if the hydrogen used would originate from

851
MarketsandMarkets. Propylene Glycol Market. https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/propylene-
glycol-market-264488864.html#:~:text=%5B176 Pages Report%5D The propylene,market during the forecast
period. Accessed August 4, 2020
852
Spekreijse J, Lammens T, Parisi C, Ronzon T, Vis M. Insights into the European market for bio-based chemicals
Analysis based on 10 key product categories. 2019. doi:10.2760/549564
853
de Guzman D. Oleochemicals: Oleon enters glycerin-based propylene glycol.
https://www.icis.com/explore/resources/news/2012/07/16/9577645/oleochemicals-oleon-enters-glycerin-based-
propylene-glycol/. Published 2012. Accessed July 27, 2020
854
Hall K. Ethylene and Propylene Prices in 2020: Two Market Stories. http://blog.opisnet.com/ethylene-propylene-
prices-2020 . Published 2020. Accessed July 27, 2020
855
Wright S. INSIGHT: Europe glycerine spot prices post triple-digit rises on fears of further biodiesel output cuts.
https://www.icis.com/explore/resources/news/2020/04/03/10490229/europe-glycerine-spot-prices-post-triple-
digit-rises-on-fears-of-further-biodiesel-output-cuts . Published 2020. Accessed July 27, 2020
856
ADM. Frequently Asked Questions EVO-100TM USP-NF/FCC Propylene Glycol (Excipient/Food Use Only).
https://www.adm.com/products-services/industrials/propylene-glycol/faqs . Accessed July 27, 2020
857
Scott A. Paper firm UPM will spend $600 million to make chemicals from wood. Chem Eng News. 2020.
https://cen.acs.org/business/biobased-chemicals/Paper-firm-UPM-spend-600/98/i6 . Accessed October 22, 2020
858
UPM-Biofore. New German Biorefinery in the pipeline. UPM Communications Papers.
https://www.upmpaper.com/sustainability/articles/new-german-biorefinery-in-the-pipeline/ . Accessed October
22, 2020
859
Rosales-Calderon O, Arantes V. A review on commercial-scale high-value products that can be produced alongside
cellulosic ethanol. Biotechnol Biofuels. 2019;12(1):240. doi:10.1186/s13068-019-1529-1

348
renewable sources. The future development of green hydrogen production will aid with
this.

In research and innovation intellectual property (IP) rights are important factor. New fields
that have a large patent coverage may seem too risky for companies to get into. This is
something to consider as a barrier with bio-based chemicals, like PG that have new
technologies emerging 860.

Economic drivers and barriers

Production of PG from glycerol adds value to the waste streams from biodiesel and fatty
acid production. In addition, ethylene glycol is formed as a side product during PG
production from some bio-based sources. It can be sold to create additional income. This
of course depends on the volumes produced and the EG markets that are typically moving
large volumes.

Feedstock drivers and barriers

The four bio-based routes for PG production make use of oil-based crops (2x) and starch-
based crops. Feedstocks currently being used are region-specific. Among vegetable oils
palm oil and soy oil are the cheapest to produce, but many controversies are related to
their production 861, and this calls for traceability of feedstocks to enable sustainable
production (see below). In Germany rapeseed is the main source of vegetable oils for
biodiesel production 862. Starch-based crops, like corn, are produced globally and are
readily available. Production in Europe is more expensive than in most other parts of the
world. An alternative feedstock to controversial oil-based feedstocks is woody biomass.
New technologies that coming to the field to offer alternatives, like UPM’s technology.
Woody biomass offers therefore an option. There are well-established systems in place to
monitor sustainable forestry, which exclude discussions about indirect land use and
competition with food.

The drawback, and a barrier of using palm and soy-based feedstocks are that they are
grown outside Europe. This increases the dependency of imported goods.

Climate change and environmental drivers and barriers

Sustainability of PG production from fossil and oil-based crops has been studied and the
most sustainable route was production of PG via biodiesel production involving certified
palm oil usage850. Via the oleochemical route reduction of CO2–emissions were
approximately 40% and in the biodiesel route 60% compared to fossil counterpart. This is
the main driver in this category. Production of the feedstock counts for most of the impacts
related to climate change 850. Low-iLUC palm oil also offer more sustainable oil feedstock,
however, it is unsure how this is reflected in the new regulations regarding palm oil. PG
itself is biodegradable and causes no harm to the environment as such. However, it should
be noted that PG is often used in product formulations in which the end-product is often
no longer biodegradable. In case of woody biomass as a feedstock, certifications like RST,
ICC, FCS, PEFC, ensure that the wood is sustainably sourced and impacts on the climate
are taken into account. These certifications also help communications along the value
chain.

860
Expert Opinion. Interview with an industry expert in the framework of this project.
861
Buffet L. High & Low ILUC Risk Biofuels - Policy Recommendations for the EU Delegated Act.; 2019.
https://www.transportenvironment.org/sites/te/files/publications/2019_01_High_low_ILUC_TE_briefing_final.pdf
862
UFOP. Rapeseed oil remains primary feedstock for German biodiesel. Biodiesel Magazine.
http://www.biodieselmagazine.com/articles/2517088/rapeseed-oil-remains-primary-feedstock-for-german-
biodiesel . Published 2020. Accessed July 29, 2020

349
Usage of palm oil and soy oil includes many challenging issues. They compete with land
usage for food. Furthermore, environmentally they are having issues such as deforestation,
danger to biodiversity, reduction of soil quality and increased use of fertilizers. Palm oil
production has also high land usage requirements850 and the plantations are often started
by forest removal through burning causing emissions to the atmosphere 863. Furthermore,
using animal fats as feedstock increases the land use required for animal husbandry 850. It
is expected that with the Europe’s advance biofuel strategy the feedstocks these types of
conventional feedstocks will also be phased out. Furthermore, PG production requires
hydrogen; to become more sustainable the hydrogen should be produced from renewable
resources. This is likely to get boost within the next years through the strategy boos of EU
864
.

Citizen and Society drivers and barriers

There are some barriers in this category related to the use of oil-based feedstocks, like soy
and palm. Palm oil plantations in general suffer from bad public image. Beyond the
environmental challenges, the use of palm oil for energy purposes is controversial for the
following reasons: competition with food, potential human rights violations (illegal land
grabbing displacement of communities, human trafficking and child labour)861 and health
issues (due to forest-burning related smog) 865.

In addition to this, biodiesel production uses methanol as a solvent, since it is a cheaper

alternative to other solvents, like ethanol. Methanol is a toxic chemical and switching to
ethanol-based solvent would cause less potential harm to health.

Policy and regulation drivers and barriers

With a significant share of PG feedstock coming as side product from biodiesel production,
policies and regulations on transport and renewable transportation fuels are acting as
drivers for PG. Usage of oil-crops as a feedstock can be made more sustainable by
introducing sustainable purchasing polices, like BioPreferred. Furthermore, if bio-based PG
manufacturing from oil-crops remains as the main route, supporting the use of non-food
oil crops can lower the undesired effects of land use competition. To introduce more
measures for less sustainable production routes, the price of CO2 could also be adjusted to
the level of the cost for greenhouse gas emissions860. If there would be more policy support
for new technologies that enable chemicals and materials from biomass rather than fuels
and energy it would help to bring new alternatives to the markets 860.

The barriers in this category are related to the oil-crops. EC policies on sustainable
transport and green hydrogen promote zero emission vehicles that are powered by
electricity or by (green) hydrogen fuel cells, rather than by diesel. Under RED II
(Renewable Energy Directive) high-iLUC feedstocks like palm and soy will be phased out.
Both groups of policies would lead to a reduced availability of biodiesel-associated glycerol,
thus a feedstock for PG.

863
Book&Claim Ltd - GreenPalm. The social and environmental impact of palm oil. https://greenpalm.org/about-palm-
oil/social-and-environmental-impact-of-palm-oi l
864
European Commission. Questions and answers: A Hydrogen Strategy for a climate neutral Europe.
https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/QANDA_20_1257 . Published 2020. Accessed November 5,
2020
865
Sustainability Policy Transparency Toolkit. Palm oil - Social impacts. https://www.spott.org/palm-oil-resource-
archive/impacts/social/ . Accessed July 27, 2020

350
Drivers for, and barriers to, bio-based uptake in lubricants

Table 57. Drivers for, and barriers to, bio-based lubricants market uptake

Category Drivers Barriers

1: Business Bio-based lubricants have various advantages The high cost of bio-based lubricants
Demand for bio-based lubricants is increasing Lubricants are a commodity market,
High-performance, environmentally friendly lubricants so a price premium is unlikely to be
are highly sought after, and represent a distinct achieved
opportunity Low market share of bio-lubricants
Bio-based lubricants may cost less over the product means that engine manufacturers do
lifecycle owing to lower maintenance, storage, and not take bio-lubricants into account
disposal requirements when developing specifications
The emergence of oleochemical derivates contributes to
improving performance in specific industrial applications
Bio-based drop-in chemicals provide an opportunity to
increase the bio-based content of lubricants

2: Innovation Functional benefits e.g. high lubricity lower volatility, and Lower performance of “traditional”
lower flammability bio-based lubricants
Some R&D activity Difficulty to obtain desired properties

3: Economy Growth in industrial, aviation and marine sectors are

expected to drive the global demand for lubricants
Market for bio-lubricants can be stimulated along with
the one for biofuels
Volatile petrochemical prices

4: Feedstock Feedstock options include a variety of unmodified Some lubricants highly dependent on
vegetable oils, such as rapeseed, palm, canola, and a single feedstock; mainly based on
sunflower oils well-developed oils and fats platform
Feedstock prices can be high because
low quantities needed

5: Climate All five sustainability characteristics (biodegradability, It is difficult to prove the

change and low human toxicity, low ecotoxicity, reduction of GHG sustainability, because main
environment emissions, recyclability) are required for bio-based advantages occur at the use-phase of
lubricants the product
Bio-based lubricants have superior biodegradability Bio-lubricants are not always seen by
characteristics compared to conventional alternatives the regulators as being good for the
Environmental concerns are a leading driver for bio- environment, due to the possibility of
based lubricants use of palm oil, and the link with
Bio-based lubricants produce fewer emissions agriculture
Vegetable oils cannot be recycled so
easily, because of degradation
(polymerization) and other
irreversible changes

6: Citizen and The use of bio-based lubricants produces a cleaner, less 1. Low public awareness
Society toxic working environment. 2. Consumers do not ‘see’
Bio-based lubricants offer increased employee safety lubricants, so no selling
Low aquatic toxicity argument for producers
Low bioaccumulation Terminology can be confusing for
consumers

7: Policy and The bio-based lubricants market is driven by a mix of Differing regional regulations
regulation regulatory schemes on total-loss applications and Lack of actual legislation
industry standards Non-uniform labels and definitions
Public procurement programmes can help to create a Many different applications, so less
usage history and serve as a model for the private suitable for labels, etc.
industry to emulate
In several EU Member States, the use of bio-based
lubricants is compulsory for use in total-loss applications
in environmentally sensitive areas
Marine vessels operating in North American waters need
to have a Vessel General Permit (VGP), which mandates
the use4 of biodegradable substances
Increasingly high emission standards in marine transport
applications

351
Introduction

Lubricants are formulations designed to separate moving parts, thereby minimising friction
and reducing wear. Lubricants consists mostly of a base oil. The properties of the base oil
are modified by adding small amounts of different additives 866. Lubricants are used in
various applications in the industrial, automotive, marine and aerospace sectors. The
largest consumption of lubricants is in transportation i.e. the automotive, aerospace and
marine sectors 867, 868. The increasing number of passenger and commercial vehicles, and
growth in the aviation and marine sectors are expected to drive the global demand for
lubricants 869.

Feedstocks for bio-based lubricants (also referred to as bio-lubricants) include a variety of

unmodified vegetable oils, such as rapeseed, pal, canola, and sunflower oils; tall oil fatty
acids (TOFA), fatty acid methyl esters (FAME), and fatty acid (FA) polyethylene glycol
(PEG) esters. The vegetable oils are often chemically modified, mixed together, or
extracted from genetically enhanced seed oils with higher build-in stability to arrive at a
vegetable oil blend or mixture with enhanced properties852. The best applications for bio-
lubricants are found in machinery that loses oil directly into the environment during use
(referred to as total loss, lost-in-use or used-once lubricants), and in machinery used in
any sensitive areas, such as in or near water 870, 871.

Unmodified vegetable oils are mainly used in chainsaw bars and chains and unmoulding
applications, while TOFA and the esters are used as engine oils, compressor oils, cooling
fluids, aviation fluids and hydraulic fluids 848, 872.

Bio-lubricants have long suffered from a poor image, with shortcomings in performance
and higher prices among the factors limiting them to a few niche applications in forestry
and agriculture, to be used only when required by law 873. But prices have come down. For
example, in the US bio-based rail curve greases are priced below their mineral oil-based
counterparts when just 15 years ago the bio-based versions were twice as expensive853.

The bio-lubricants market is evolving, due to the increased supply of a new generation of
high-quality bio-lubricants based on oleochemical derivates, notably synthetic esters, that
offer superior performance, improved energy efficiency and prolonged lifetime for
lubricants and machinery855. Bio-based lubricants are a very small part of the overall
lubricant markets and are at present predominantly used in Europe and the US 874,

866
Kuo JAC da SE-C-H. Biodegradable Lubricants and Their Production Via Chemical Catalysis. In: Rijeka: IntechOpen;
2011:Ch. 7. doi:10.5772/24845
867
Grand View Research. Lubricants Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Application (Industrial,
Automotive, Marine, Aerospace), By Region (North America, Europe, APAC, CSA, MEA), Competitive Landscape,
And Segment Forecast, 2018 – 2025. https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/lubricants-market .
Published 2018. Accessed August 7, 2020.
868
MarketsandMarkets. Lubricants Market by Type (Mineral Oil, Synthetic Lubricants, Bio-Based, and Greases), by
Application (Transportation and Industrial Machinery & Equipment), and by Region (APAC, EU, NA, MEA, AND SA) -
Global Forecast to 2021. https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/lubricants-market-182046896.html
. Accessed March 29, 2020
869
Paola Fabbri, Davide Viaggi, Fabrizio Cavani, Lorenzo Bertin MM, Erika Carnevale, Juliana Velasquez Ochoa, Gonzalo
Agustin Martinez, Esposti Micaela Degli Piret, Kukk Fischer, Sven Wydra Schwarz, Alexander FM-W. Top Emerging
Bio-Based Products, Their Properties and Industrial Applications.; 2018
870
Honary LA. Biobased- Biodegradable – Environmentally aware lubricants. Lube Mag No 147. October 2018:35-39.
http://www.lube-media.com/wp-content/uploads/Lube-Tech-118-Biobased -–-Biodegradable-–-Environmentally-
aware-lubricants-min-1.pdf
871
Gajera J. Bio-lubricants slideshow. https://www.slideshare.net/JalpaGajera/bio-lubricants . Accessed August 7,
2020.
872
Spekreijse J, Lammens T, Parisi C, Ronzon T, Vis M. Insights into the European market for bio-based chemicals
Analysis based on 10 key product categories. 2019. doi:10.2760/549564
873
Luzuriaga S, Marioni M. The key market drivers of bio-lubricants. Lube Mag No 143. February 2018:20-22.
https://www.panolin.com/pdf/Lube-magazin-143.pdf
874
Tsagaraki E, Karachaliou E, Delioglanis I, Kouzi E. D2.1 Bio-Based Products and Applications Potential.; 2017.
http://www.bioways.eu/download.php?f=150&l=en&key=441a4e6a27f83a8e828b802c37adc6e1

352
although use in Asia-Pacific is on the rise. The need for biodegradable lubricants that are
non-toxic has caused the market share of bio-lubricants to increase. The market value of
bio-lubricants has increased from EUR 1.6 billion in 2011 to EUR 2.3 billion in 2017 and is
expected to grow further to EUR 3.0 billion in 2024. The growth is mainly expected in
applications in transportation and manufacturing856. Besides in bio-lubricants specifically,
synthetic esters are also used in small quantities (5-10%) in many synthetic machine oils
875
.

The total lubricant market in 2013 comprised around 39.4 Mt, 1.5 % of which (approx. 0.6
Mt) consisted of bio-based lubricants (12). A EC study853 expects the market share of bio-
based lubricants to grow from 0.7 Mt (1.6 % of total market) in 2017 via 0.95 Mt (1.65 %
of total market) in 2025 to 1.15 Mt (1.7 % of total market) in 2030. The market size of
bio-based lubricants will grow from USD 3,255 million in 2013 via USD 5,150 million in
2025 to USD 6,200 million in 2030.

Business drivers and barriers

The bio-based lubricants market is driven by regulations on total-loss applications or by

improved performance (improved energy efficiency and prolonged lifetime for lubricants
and machinery) for certain applications. High-performance, environmentally friendly
lubricants are highly sought after, and represent a distinct opportunity856. The emergence
of oleochemical derivates contributes to improving performance855.

Bio-based lubricants have various advantages, such as longer life span, reduction in energy
usage, increased machine life, and increased production. Demand for bio-based lubricants
is increasing, encouraging vendors to manufacture them853, 855,876. Bio-based lubricants
may cost less over the product lifecycle owing to lower maintenance, storage, and disposal
requirements 877. However, their higher initial costs – compared to conventional lubricants
– limits their appeal elsewhere851, 878. As lubricants are a commodity market, a price
premium is unlikely to be achieved 879.

Bio-based drop-ins, such as succinic acid, adipic acid, propylene oxide, ethylene oxide
building blocks provide an opportunity to increase the bio-based content of lubricants860.

Bio-based lubricants must meet the performance requirement of the application 856., 860.
Vegetable oils offer many inherently advantageous properties when used as lubricants, but
they also have inherent limitations when compared with mineral or synthetic oils 852.

The biggest barrier in using these bio-based derived, chemically modified oils are that they
are 3-5 times more expensive than the vegetable oils used to synthesise them 852.

The current low market share of bio-lubricants (3% in Germany, 1.5% in EU) means that
engine manufacturers do not take bio-lubricants into account when developing
specifications. With a market share of 10% this would become better857.

875
Expert opinion. Interview with an industry expert in the framework of this project.
876
Newswire G. The market for bio-lubricants is anticipated to register a CAGR of 4.25%, during the forecast period.
https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2020/02/26/1991481/0/en/The-market-for-bio-lubricants-is-
anticipated-to-register-a-CAGR-of-4-25-during-the-forecast-period-2019.html . Published 2019. Accessed August
7, 2020.
877
Technavio Research. Global Lubricants Market 2019-2023| Emergence of Bio-Based Lubricants to Boost Growth.
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20191008005597/en/Global-Lubricants-Market-2019-2023-
Emergence-Bio-Based-Lubricants . Published 2019. Accessed August 7, 2020.
878
Panchaksharam Y, Kiri P, Bauen A, et al. Roadmap for the Chemical Industry in Europe towards a Bioeconomy.;
2019. https://www.roadtobio.eu/uploads/publications/roadmap/RoadToBio_strategy_document.pdf
879
Expert interviews implemented in the scope of Insights into the European market for bio-based chemicals-study
(2019).

353
Innovation drivers and barriers

Functional benefits of bio-lubricants can be high lubricity, lower volatility, and lower
flammability 856,880. However, there are also reports of lower quality of “traditional” bio-
based lubricants, such as low temperature stability, unpleasant odour, and incompatibility
with other ingredients860.

It is reported to be difficult to obtain desired properties; the properties required for bio-
based lubricants to be biodegradable lead to a low resistance to oxidation. This can be
solved by additives, but these must also be bio-based and biodegradable860. There is some
R&D activity on bio-lubricants857,862.

Economic drivers and barriers

The increasing number of passenger and commercial vehicles, and growth in the aviation
and marine sectors are expected to drive the global demand for lubricants852, 861. The
Market for bio-based lubricants can be stimulated along with the one for biofuels861.

Feedstock drivers and barriers

Feedstock options include a variety of unmodified vegetable oils, such as rapeseed, palm,
soy, canola, and sunflower oils. Some large-scale producers can be dependent on a single
feedstock (mainly based on well-developed oils and fats platform). This reduces flexibility.

Due to the relatively small quantity of feedstock that is needed by lubricant producers, the
price can be high857.

Climate change and environmental drivers and barriers

All five sustainability characteristics (biodegradability, low human toxicity, low ecotoxicity,
reduction of GHG emissions, recyclability) are required for bio-based lubricants860. Bio-
based lubricants have superior biodegradability characteristics compared to conventional
alternatives 860.

Bio-based lubricants are environmentally friendly whereas conventional lubricants are

not853. Bio-based lubricants lead to less environmental impact upon leakage856.
Environmental concerns are thus a leading driver for bio-based lubricants860. The CO2-eq.
emissions are 1.3 kg/l for bio-based lubricants and 4.8 kg/l for fossil-based lubricants851.
Bio-based lubricants produce also fewer emissions due to higher boiling temperature
ranges of esters 853. Also, low aquatic toxicity862 and low bioaccumulation856 are reported.

Bio-lubricants are not always seen by the regulators as being good for the environment,
due to the possibility of use of palm oil, and the link with agriculture857.

A barrier is that it is difficult to prove the sustainability, because main advantages – such
as lower wear/tear, lower emissions, and longer lifetime of after-treatment components -
occur at the use-phase of the product857.

One specific problem is recyclability. Vegetable oils cannot be recycled so easily, because
of degradation (polymerization) and other irreversible changes857.

880
Grandview Research. Biolubricants market analysis by raw material (vegetable & animal oil), by application
(automotive (automotive engine oils, gear oils, hydraulic oils, transmission fluids, greases, chainsaw oils),
industrial (process oils, demolding oils, industrial gear . https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-
analysis/biolubricants-industry . Published 2016. Accessed August 7, 2020.

354
Citizen and Society drivers and barriers

The use of bio-based lubricants produces a cleaner, less toxic working environment for
those working with engines and hydraulic systems. They do not cause skin problems, such
as skin inflammation, which is generally caused by petroleum-based lubricants 853,858 ,859.

Bio-based lubricants offer an increased employee safety due to higher flashpoints, constant
viscosity and less oil mist and vapour emissions 853, 858 , 859.

There is low public awareness of bio-based lubricants. Terminology used can be confusing
for consumers: sometimes terms such as “bio-lubricant” can refer to products derived from
renewable sources or to a biodegradable lubricant derived from petroleum-based
sources860. Related to this is that many bio-lubricants are used in industry to manufacture
products. Because of this, the visibility of lubricants for consumers is low, so switching to
bio-lubricants is not a selling argument for producers 857.

One specific problem is that in some cases, namely when bio-lubricants are used in the
food industry, there can be a need to verify that that the production of bio-lubricants is
occurring kosher and/or halal. This means that external verification is required that no
feedstock from animal origin is used 857.

Policy and regulation drivers and barriers

The bio-based lubricants market is driven by a mix of regulatory schemes on total-loss

applications and industry standards855. In several EU Member States, the use of bio-based
lubricants is compulsory for use in total-loss applications in environmentally sensitive areas
881
.

Also outside of Europe there are regulations that mandate bio-based lubricants: Marine
vessels operating in North American waters need to have a Vessel General Permit (VGP),
which mandates the use of biodegradable substances 855, and there are Increasingly high
emission standards in marine transport applications 882.

A complicating factor (barrier) are however the differences between regional regulations856.
Also, current labels like Ecolabel and Blue Angel (Germany) do not require a minimum bio-
based content. Low toxicity and biodegradability are enough. This is not in agreement with
the current standard for bio-based lubricants (the EN16807).

Another complicating factor is that many lubricants have a lot of different applications,
which make them less suitable for standardisation. This makes it also difficult to develop
appropriate labels 857.

A further barrier is that the EU lacks actual legislation mandating the use of bio-based
lubricants. That should be enacted for systems with environmental impact (like greater
leakages), such as hydraulic systems, just as the VGP in the USA does.

881
Commission Expert Group. Commission Expert Group on Bio-Based Products - Final Report.; 2017.
https://ec.europa.eu/knowledge4policy/news/report-commission-expert-group-bio-based-products-includes-
recommendations-jobs-growth-through_en
882
Grand View Research. Marine lubricants market size, share & trends analysis report by product (engine oil,
hydraulic oil, gear oil, turbine oil, greases), by region (North America, Europe, APAC), competitive landscape, and
segment forecasts, 2018-2025. 2015d. https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/marine-lubricant-
market . Accessed August 25, 2020.

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Drivers for, and barriers to, bio-based uptake in Solvents

Table 58. Drivers for, and barriers to bio-based uptake on solvents.

Category Drivers Barriers

1: Business Medium market size Low oil price

Bio-based is a marketing advantage High costs of bio-based solvents
Industry interest is high Competitive markets
Poor performance compared to fossil-based

2: Innovation Drop-in chemicals have similar Requirement for change of properties or processes
performance than fossil-alternative. for product formulations
Increased funding for R&D
Recyclability is sometimes better

3: Economy Drop-in chemicals do not need Lack of performance may increase costs
changed formulations or procedures
Wider advantages of bio-based
solvents for agriculture and forestry
Investors see non-SDG investments
as a risk

4: Feedstock Wide range of feedstocks Some made from food-competing feedstock

Waste and non-food competing May not be enough feedstock to replace all fossil
feedstocks are sought for ones

5: Climate Biodegradability Lack of knowledge of impacts of switching to bio-

change and Possible GHG reduction based
environment Recyclability of solvent wastes Toxicity and biodegradability testing is slow and
Low/no phytotoxicity expensive

6: Citizen and Less health risks, low toxicity Not all bio-based solvents are non-toxic
Society Lower work exposure Bio-based is not a selling argument in some
Public demand for bio-based business areas

7: Policy and Anti-toxins and pro-biodegradability Slow and expensive approval procedures
regulation regulations Lack of regulatory push for the industry
REACH
Financial support for SME for approval
procedures.

Introduction

Solvents are substances that dissolve other components. Most typically these are liquids,
but a solvent can also be a gas, solid or a supercritical fluid. The requirement for being a
solvent is that it can dissolve other compounds to it at certain temperatures and
concentrations.

Multiple bio-based solvents exist, such as acetic acid, methanol, acetone, lactic acid,
propylene glycol, ethyl lactate, glycerol.

Business drivers and barriers

Solvents production in EU was reported at 5000 kt/year (2019) in a recent study 883 and
the bio-based share at 1.5% (75kton/year). This can be characterised as a medium-sized
market (smaller than e.g. polymers, but larger than many other chemicals. The Road to
Bio study in 2019 884 reported that 40% of the solvents used are consumed by the paints

883
Spekreijse J, Lammens T, Parisi C, Ronzon T, Vis M. Insights into the European market for bio-based chemicals
Analysis based on 10 key product categories. 2019. doi:10.2760/549564
884
Panchaksharam Y, Kiri P, Bauen A, et al. Roadmap for the Chemical Industry in Europe towards a Bioeconomy.;
2019. https://www.roadtobio.eu/uploads/publications/roadmap/RoadToBio_strategy_document.pdf

356
industry. The estimated growth of bio-based solvents is small (1% CAGR)848. Industry
interest is high, not so much because of the bio-based aspects, but mainly because of
safety 885.

Bio-based solvents have multiple applications, therefore, there are multiple opportunities
to increase the bio-based share. Certain industries have set ambitious sustainability goals,
such as the furniture and flooring industry 886. It is a marketing advantage to sell renewable
or bio-based products with a low environmental footprint. The companies who distinguish
themselves with innovative and sustainable products have an advantage on the markets;
they can serve the needs of their existing customers who demand for more sustainable
products and also increase their business with a better image.

Bio-based drop-in solvents cannot compete economically with the fossil ones at current oil
prices. Together with performance, the cost factor is a very important barrier850. However,
the use of bio-based components has a strategic advantage, thus the use of bio-based
components is not always cost-driven851. Solvent markets are competitive and bio-based
solvents must perform at least the same or even better than fossil counterparts to be able
enter the markets 887, 888. Lately, there has been a movement away from drop-ins to
dedicated bio-based solvents. Main driver for this is that companies want ‘better’ solvents
(safer, environmentally friendly, less VOC, etc.), and that cannot be accomplished with
drop-ins 850.

Innovation drivers and barriers

Bio-based solvents need to meet the functional requirements of the fossil equivalents that
they intend to replace in different applications. Drop-in solvents, e.g. in paint formulations,
have an advantage that the formulation does not need to be changed as the chemical is
the same regardless of the origin851. However, the barriers to bio-based uptake in paints
and coatings lead to performance issues; the replacement of VOC solvents with a different
bio-based solvent usually results in shorter drying times, meaning less time to work with
the products849. Thus, in paints and coatings, R&D with major focus on application testing
as performance is the first requirement of a bio-based solvent to potentially replace a
fossil-based alternative. R&D should also focus on formulations, as once one component is
changed, the whole formulation may need adjusting 849, 851.

Furthermore, only a few bio-based solvents are available for agrochemicals that fulfil the
required functionality like solvency and compatibility with wide range of active ingredients.
This requires also further investments in R&D and innovation to create solvents for
agrochemicals with superior functionality849. Funding schemes or establishment of
technology platforms for the development of new formulations are actions that could help
companies to drive the R&D and further increase bio-based uptake 849.

Industries are taking as many steps as possible to remain competitive, by reducing waste
and recycling spent solvents. Solvents are also used in recycling processes to enable
recovery of valuable materials 889. Recyclability and reuse of the solvent in extraction
processes is very important for producers. Extraction or distillation is a common processing
step used in chemical, food, pharmaceutical and mining industry. In some cases, bio-based
solvents are not as durable as their fossil-based counter parts. They may degrade under
higher temperatures, which results in increased use as the chemical needs to be replaced

885
Expert opinion. Interview with an industry expert in the framework of this project.
886
European Coatings. "The cost-performance-sustainability triange needs to be considered. Focus Top - Bio-based
coatings. 2019:1-3
887
European Coatings Journal. Growth worldwide. European coatings Journal.
https://www.dsm.com/content/dam/decovery/Documents/Bio_Based_Coatings_Market_Report_Growth_Worldwide
_EuropeanCoatingsJournal_April_2018.pdf . Published 2018. Accessed August 13, 2020
888
Pennakem. Bio-based solvents & fine chemicals. https://pennakem.com/core-business/bio-based-solvents-
chemistry/ . Accessed August 13, 2020
889
de Guzman D. Growing bio-based solvent market. Green Chemicals Blog.
https://greenchemicalsblog.com/2019/08/02/growing-bio-based-solvent-market/ . Published 2019. Accessed
August 13, 2020

357
by adding fresh solvent and consequently, it increases the cost of the production 890.
Another problem with recyclability is that bio-based solvents may be more difficult to
recover due to otherwise beneficial properties, like low VOC850.

Economic drivers and barriers

As mentioned in business drivers it is strategically beneficial to sell bio-based products. By

using drop-in solvents instead of new (dedicated), bio-based chemicals can enable cost-
savings from qualifications and in R&D851. An economic driver is that when companies do
not take the Sustainable Development Goals into account, investors see that as a risk. This
is a big shift from the past850. Bio-based solvents have other wider – upstream - advantages
because of feedstock use. There are benefits for agriculture and rural economy and
increased waste utilization 850.

The production costs of bio-based solvents are high, which is a drawback 848. The low oil
price makes it difficult to compete in the drop-in chemicals market. Also, poorly performing
solvents, e.g. in extraction, can increase costs due to need to replace recycled solvent with
fresh one.

Feedstock drivers and barriers

Solvents represent a large group of chemicals. Therefore, the feedstocks vary as well.
Some companies have already started to make sure that they use only non-food biomass
feedstocks, e.g. waste streams851. It will be a driver for companies to promote themselves
in terms of renewability, circularity, or sustainability if their product would come from
utilizing wastes or other low value streams. However, given the volumes of solvents used
and given that part of them are produced from sources requiring agricultural land, it is
unreasonable to assume that these types of solvents could replace fossil ones completely
since the land requirements are too high for the volumes needed 848. There is however a
movement away from scarce feedstocks, and many companies/customer want this
utilization of abundant lignocellulose instead850.

Climate change and environmental drivers and barriers

Biodegradability is an important factor especially for products that would end-up in the
environment. These kind of products are, for instance, cleaning products (household
cleaners, personal care) or agrochemicals849. Some bio-based solvents are biodegradable.
It should be noted that even when the chemical is bio-based it may not biodegradable or
non-toxic for the environment. Recyclability is also an important environmental driver,
however, as mentioned in the innovation-category, the technical performance of
recyclability of bio-based solvents is an issue for their feasibility.

In terms of products used by consumers, education of the general public about bio-based
products is essential. There is a need to educate about the differences between bio-based
and biodegradability in order to avoid misconception about the products and their afterlife.
Bio-based should not only be used as a marketing advantage, but also as a way to educate
consumers.

In agro-chemicals the bio-based alternatives must be compatible with the plants and show
low or no phytotoxicity depending on the application849.

VOC regulations are drivers for “greener” bio-based solvents. However, these VOC
regulations have sometimes been seen by the industry as a more pressing issue than
reducing greenhouse gas emissions. More incentives are needed for industry to move to
bio-based solvents848. Also, estimations of environmental impacts of bio-based solvents

890
PRIsystems. Understanding the ROI and Efficacy of Bio-Based Solvents.
https://prisystems.com/news/understanding-the-roi-and-efficacy-of-bio-based-solvents /. Accessed August 13,
2020

358
are needed to show the impacts of replacing fossil ones. Some reports show identified bio-
based solvents with less GHG emissions compared to fossil equivalents849.

A barrier is the toxicity and biodegradability testing, which is difficult to do rapidly and at
low costs 850.

Citizen and Society drivers and barriers

Bio-based chemicals are sometimes considered as non-harmful, non-toxic since they

originate from nature. Some bio-based solvents are non-toxic and harmless. However, also
toxic ones exist. The definite driver here is non-toxicity and safety to human health, e.g.
due lower worker exposure, that most fossil counter parts do not fulfil 891.

In cosmetics, solvents such as acetone and ethanol are key in their formulations849.
Increasing their bio-based share is possible as these are bio-based chemicals that are
readily available. However, in cosmetics bio-based is often not a marketing argument, but
labels like, organic, vegan or Eco-certified are more advantageous. Bio-based is in itself
not a selling argument. Companies see the advantage, but often not decisive (compared
to safety, cost and performance) 850.

Policy and regulation drivers and barriers

The uptake of bio-based solvents is supported by the EU policy on VOC emissions and by
REACH849. Those bio-based alternatives which meet the criteria of low toxicity and low
VOC, compared to the fossil-based counterpart, are likely to be considered as valid
alternative, provided that they meet the functionally requirements of the solvent in specific
applications. More in general, regulations that ban toxins or increase biodegradability are
normally beneficial for bio-based solvents850.

As bio-based solvents are more expensive than the fossil counterparts their uptake can be
enhanced by regulations. Subsidizing bio-based products, while adding a carbon tax to
fossil-based products would help to enhance the uptake of bio-based solvents849.

The European chemicals industry is strictly regulated. Use of new ingredients in products
is subject to long and often expensive approval procedures. Having more affordable
approval procedures would help the industry. This can be an issue for small companies
that want to bring their product to the markets. Subsidies or other means of financing is
needed for them to be able to apply to the certificates849.

Specifically, in the case of agrochemicals industry, exploring options of shorter and more
affordable approval procedures would be beneficial to the market uptake of bio-based
solvents. Legislation 1107/2009 that places plant protection products on the market has
been adapted for speedier approval of bio-based pesticides.

Support for the gradual uptake of bio-based solvents could be done by a policy instrument
which would require solvent producers to reach a quota for solvents that are bio-based and
meet sustainability criteria849. Based on the estimated low CARG the industry needs more
push for switching to bio-based by regulatory means.

891
Helwande S. Bio-based solvents on the rise. Bio Based Press. https://www.biobasedpress.eu/2018/07/bio-based-
solvents-on-the-rise/ . Published 2018. Accessed August 13, 2020

359
Drivers for, and barriers to, bio-based uptake in surfactants

Table 59. Drivers for, and barriers to bio-based surfactants market uptake.

Category Drivers Barriers

1: Business Rising demand for greener surfactants Limited cost competitiveness compared to
Advanced product properties/ opportunities conventional products
for new product properties (niche markets) Uncertainty of secured steady supply of
Multiple end-uses bio-based surfactants due to the limited
High-value products number of large-scale producers
Potential demand highest in affluent The actual use of bio-based surfactants is
economies often limited to niche products
Brand owners may be willing to pay a
premium for bio-based products they provide
marketing advantages

2: Innovation New product formulations entail more Bio-based surfactants are usually dedicated
flexibility in composition, if a certain chemicals, thus new product formulation is
performance can be ensured often required in end-products
Enzyme assisted production improves Enzymes are costly and the production
selectivity and allows lower production process is slower.
temperatures Production yields of microbial
Recently a 100% bio-based surfactant was biosurfactants are low and toxic by-
introduced into the market products are still a problem
Downstream processing of microbial
derived biosurfactants is complicated and
requires innovation

3: Economy Higher investment cost for product

formulations
Feedstock price fluctuations due to
availability and quality of biomass
feedstocks

4: Feedstock Bio-based surfactants will be produced from Raw material cost and availability will likely
a variety of feedstocks including traditional be an issue in the future
biomass sources, but also algae and waste Future progress may be hindered by the
streams lack of biosurfactant suppliers as customers
cannot afford the risks associated with a
single supplier
Sustainability discussions about raw
materials, customers do not consider palm
oil as sustainable raw material

5: Climate change Bio-based surfactants required a lower

and environment critical concentration compared to chemical
surfactants
Production and use of bio-based surfactants
generate less GHG emissions
Carbon footprint lower with bio-based than
conventional (depending on the process)

6: Citizen and Growing consumer awareness of the Customers may not be aware of what a bio-
Society environmental hazards resulting from the based surfactant is and where they can be
use of conventional surfactants used for
Biological activity (antibacterial, antifungal, Lack of clear labelling, that would allow
antiviral, anticancer and immunomodulation consumers to increasingly buy products
activities) using bio-based alternatives
Development of products through industrial
biotechnology offer safer production for
personal care applications

7: Policy and A standard definition of bio-based surfactant EU legislative requirements are time
regulation is available now consuming and costly, especially for new
Detergent regulation No 648/2004 for products
biodegradability Regulatory requirements are country
dependent

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Introduction

Surfactants are compounds that lower the surface tension between fluids – gases, liquids
- or fluids and solids. Surfactants are widely used in cosmetics, personal and home care
products as dispersing agents and emulsifiers. Surfactants are produced from fossil and/or
bio-based raw materials. Actually, the first surfactant made by humans -soap- was already
completely bio-based. The last decades have seen the emergence of new bio-based raw
materials for surfactants 892, and their share of the market is growing (approx. 25%, per a
2017 estimate), due to increased demand by consumers and users 893.

Europe is currently the largest consumer and producer of bio-based surfactants and
expected to remain so in 2030 894. EU production of bio-based surfactants amounts to
approx. 1500 kta in 2019 with the total volume about 3000 kta 895. This high bio-based
share of 50% is because surfactants are often made from fatty acids, e.g. vegetable oils.
The EU market value of bio-based surfactants reached € 800 million in 2013 and is
expected to grow to € 1800 million in 2030 896. Demand for bio-based surfactants will
depend strongly on household spending and industrial activity in detergents and cosmetics
where environmental concerns are more evident 897.

Fatty acyl groups from oilseeds (e.g., palm, palm kernel and coconut, other oils, and
algae), animal fats, and their derivatives (e.g., fatty alcohols and amines); carbohydrates,
proteins, extractives, and their derivatives; and other biorefinery co-products (e.g. glycerol
and extractives) are major components of bio-based surfactants849. Today the most widely
used biomass feedstock for the manufacture of bio-based surfactants is palm oil 898. Bio-
based surfactants are e.g. methyl ester sulfonates (MES) made by sulfonating saturated
fatty acid methyl esters, alkyl polyglycosides (APG) raw materials used are typically starch
derived glucose and fat derivatives, and microbial biosurfactants, such as Rhamno- or
Sophorolipids produced via microbial fermentation 899.

The use of bio-based surfactants is possible in a wide range of product applications,

including foods, cosmetics, household detergents, personal care products,
pharmaceuticals, paints and coatings, textiles, agrochemicals, and other industrial sectors.
In household detergents the share of bio-based surfactants reached 45% globally based
on estimations in 2019. Because of their applications all surfactants (whether fossil-based
or bio-derived) need to have three key characteristics: biodegradability, low human toxicity
and low ecotoxicity855.

The term “bio-based surfactant” or biosurfactant shall only be used if at least three rules
are respected: (a) a high level of biodegradability, (b) absence of impacts on human and
animal health, and (c) minimal negative impact in the environment 849

892
Tropsch JG. A journey to standardization of bio-based surfactants in Europe. Inform Magazine Digital.
http://www.informmagazine-
digital.org/informmagazine/june_2017/MobilePagedArticle.action?articleId=1116630#articleId1116630 . Accessed
August 7, 2020.
893
Hayes DG, Smith GA. Chapter 1 - Biobased Surfactants: Overview and Industrial State of the Art.
doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-812705-6.00001-0
894
BIO-TIC. Overcoming Hurdles for Innovation in Industrial Biotechnology - Research and Development Roadmap.
http://www.industrialbiotech-europe.eu/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/RD-Roadmap-BIO-TIC.pdf.
895
Spekreijse J, Lammens T, Parisi C, Ronzon T, Vis M. Insights into the European market for bio-based chemicals
Analysis based on 10 key product categories. 2019. doi:10.2760/549564
896
EuropaBio. BIO-TIC Biobased Surfactants – Summary.; 2014. http://industrialbiotech-europe.eu/wp-
content/uploads/2014/07/Biosurfactant-Summary_final.pdf
897
BAUER C. Clean and Green. Evonik elements. https://elements.evonik.com/wp-
content/uploads/2020/06/ELEMENTS_0220_EN_biosurfactants.pdf. Accessed August 24, 2020.
898
REDON A. Bio-Based Surfactants - Present and Future.; 2019.
https://www.adebiotech.org/tebio/images/TEBIO_AR.pdf.
899
Panchaksharam Y, Kiri P, Bauen A, et al. Roadmap for the Chemical Industry in Europe towards a Bioeconomy.;
2019. https://www.roadtobio.eu/uploads/publications/roadmap/RoadToBio_strategy_document.pdf.

361
Business drivers and barriers

There are multiple end-uses for biosurfactants and these many market opportunities in
bioremediation, oil recovery, agriculture, processing etc. can create a critical mass, making
biosurfactants an established player in the entire surfactants market852. Rising consumer
awareness towards eco-friendly product will increase the demand and create opportunities
for companies to enter the surfactants markets 900. This the strongest driver in this
category 901.

The main advantages of bio-based surfactants are possible antimicrobial properties; better
performance compared to fossil equivalents which allows to use smaller quantities of
surfactants; better foaming properties; higher selectivity for application at lower
temperatures, higher pH and salinity, and the ability to achieve regulatory compliances
with regard to (environmental) safety and use of low-cost feedstocks (i.e. fats and oils,
sugars)855. Market differentiation could also help bio-surfactants to penetrate niche
markets857. Thankfully due to the advanced product properties the use of bio-based
surfactants is possible in a broad range of product applications.

In terms of barriers, in some applications limited cost competitiveness compared to

conventional products limits the actual use. This puts bio-based surfactants in niche
products of which only small quantities are required, such as personal care and home care
products855. Potential demand is highest in affluent economies where environmental
concerns are more evident 902.

Innovation drivers and barriers

Bio-based surfactants are usually utilized in end-product formulations where the

modification of one component has an impact on the overall composition and performance.
This increases the development costs of the products. One-to-one substitutions of
conventional surfactants are unlikely and new product formulation development is often
required852. This offers flexibility in composition, but only as long as a certain performance
can be ensured855.

Another new development is the use of enzymes. Using enzymes reduces need for strong
acids, allows lower process temperatures and leads to fewer side reactions. This saves
energy and increases the yield. Using selective enzymes leads to fewer by-products, thus
less downstream cleaning is needed.

Recently Croda has brought a 100% renewable bio-based surfactant on the market. The
surfactant is an ethoxylated surfactant from vegetable oils. This is likely to increase the
market uptake of bio-based surfactants owning to the advances of marketing with fully
bio-based component and GHG savings perspectives 903.

In terms of barriers, the fact that bio-based surfactants are often dedicated chemicals, and
their usage may require new formulations reflect on the development time of a new product
and consequently on the price of the product. Furthermore, when enzymes are used in
production, they increase costs and have more specific operating conditions, e.g.,
sensitivity to other compounds in the vegetable oils (like peroxide or heavy metals). The

900
Ahuja K, Singh S. Supportive regulatory norms should propel biosurfactants industry growth. Global Market
Insights. https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/biosurfactants-market-report . Published 2020. Accessed
August 24, 2020.
901
Expert Opinion. Interview with an industry expert in the framework of this project.
902
Market Research Future. Bio-based surfactants market research report — forecast to 2023.
https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/bio-based-surfactants-market-3907 . Published 2018. Accessed
August 20, 2020.
903
CRODA. Turning the World’s Products Green: 100% Renewable, 100% Bio-Based ECO Range of Surfactants.
Croda’s webpage. https://www.crodapersonalcare.com/en-gb/sustainability/sustainable-manufacturing/eco-plant .
Accessed October 22, 2020.

362
production process is also slower 904. Microbial-derived biosurfactants are being developed,
but production yields are low and toxic by-products are still a problem. Downstream
processing is complicated and requires innovation852.

Economic drivers and barriers

Most of the bio-based surfactants are dedicated chemicals. This means that their
adaptation in formulations replacing fossil-counterparts requires investments in research,
development, and innovation. According to the industry expert interviewed in the
framework of this project, use of bio-based surfactants may not only result in re-deign of
the product formulation, but also of the entire production process857. While these chemicals
are not challenged by the fluctuating crude oil prices, they face other price fluctuations
from feedstock availability and quality. On the other side this could also be a driver as
biomass prices may not be as volatile as oil prices 857. High manufacturing costs of
biosurfactants can in some cases hinder their market growth. Furthermore, industrial scale
production of biosurfactants has not been established in some cases due to high investment
costs856.

Feedstock drivers and barriers

Bio-based surfactants are produced from a variety of feedstocks including traditional plant
oils, fats and sugar biomass, but also algae and waste streams852. Some of the feedstocks
are available as by-products from biodiesel production (fatty acid groups)860, which entails
a dependency on the biodiesel market, that can fluctuate due to policy changes. Raw
material cost and availability are expected to be an issue in the future 852.

Due to the limited number of large-scale producers a secured steady supply of bio-based
surfactants is uncertain which creates risk for suppliers like personal and home care
producers855. Future progress may therefore be hindered as customers cannot afford the
risks associated with one single supplier 852. A third barrier stems from the sustainability
discussions involving oil crops, like palm. Customers do not consider these as sustainable,
thus this is a barrier to use them857.

Climate change and environmental drivers and barriers

Bio-based surfactants usually require a lower critical concentration compared to chemical

surfactants, which has a beneficial effect on costs. Production and use of bio-based
surfactants generate less carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas (GHG) attributable to climate
change855. However, the relatively low efficiencies in industrial biotechnology may still lead
to a high carbon footprint852.

Citizen and Society drivers and barriers

One of the main market success factors for bio-based surfactants could be increased
environmental awareness e.g. environmental hazards resulting from the use of
conventional surfactants852,856. Bio-based surfactants offer biological activity (antibacterial,
antifungal, antiviral, anticancer and immunomodulation activities) and positive impact on
personal health. Alkyl polyglycoside (APG) has an added advantage of not causing skin
irritations855.

Due to the importance of safety in the cosmetics industry, developing products through
industrial biotechnology is an advantage because it is more secure than via chemical
pathways852. Furthermore, another driver is the lower carbon footprint with bio-based
surfactants compared to conventional. This of course depend on the process 857.

904
Louzada K. Een opkomende sector - biosurfactanten. Agentschap NL.
https://www.rvo.nl/sites/default/files/Biobased surfactanten.pdf . Accessed August 7, 2020.

363
The barriers in this category are related to awareness and knowledge. Customers may not
be aware of what a bio-based surfactant is and where they can be used for852. There is lack
of clear labelling that would allow consumers to increasingly buy products using bio-based
alternatives855.

Policy and regulation drivers and barriers

Mandate (M/491) to CEN/TC-276 has been set to define biosurfactants for boosting the
markets856. CEN/TS 17035:2017 “Surface Active Agents - Bio-based surfactants -
Requirements and test methods” sets requirements for bio-based surfactants in terms of
properties, limits, application classes and test methods. It lays down the characteristics
and details for assessment of bio-based surfactants. A bio-based content between 50 and
95% is classified as a majority bio-based surfactant848 ,905. Chemicals in EU are registered
in REACH and the detergent regulation No 648/2004 states that surfactants used in
detergents must be biodegradable under aerobic conditions 856.

EU legislative requirements are time consuming and costly, especially for new products 852

.Regulatory requirements are country-to-country dependent 906.

Drivers for, and barriers to, market uptake of microfibrillated cellulose

Table 60. Specific drivers for, and barriers to, bio-based uptake of microfibrillated cellulose.

Category Drivers Barriers

1: Business Large variety of application fields High cost of manufacturing

Growing packaging markets Application in oil and gas hindered due to
Green movements Covid-19
Some target markets are conservative and
hard to penetrate

2: Innovation Future alternative to plastics and aluminium in Poor thermal stability

packaging Compatibility in composites
Superior performance in packaging. Hydrophilicity is a challenge in packaging
Improved properties in several application fields Standards need to be developed
High amount of investments in R&D

3: Economy Europe is a leading regional market of MFC- Scale-up of processes are challenging due
fibres high initial investment costs
Europe counts for biggest growth
4: Feedstock Non-food and non-land use competing feedstock
5: Climate Offers a way to replace fossil-sourced materials, Proof of sustainability with LCA is complex and
change and e.g. plastics, and consequently GHG emissions difficult to understand
environment VOC- free to use in coatings
Biodegradable

6: Citizen and Non-harmful to health in applications; Lack of knowledge of long-term and low
Society alternative to bisphenol A and phthalates exposure of cellulose nanomaterials to human
Biocompatible health

7: Policy and Government regulations banning non- 1. Lack of regulatory push

regulation biodegradable packaging.
Requirements for lowering emissions for
aviation/transportation vehicles would drive
application of MFC

Introduction

Microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) is obtained from cellulose, occurring in wood or plant

material. Using mechanical shearing, cellulose fibres are separated into a three-

905
CEN/TS 17035:2017 - Surface Active Agents - Bio-Based Surfactants - Requirements and Test Methods.
906
Tsagaraki E, Karachaliou E, Delioglanis I, Kouzi E. D2.1 Bio-Based Products and Applications Potential.; 2017.
http://www.bioways.eu/download.php?f=150&l=en&key=441a4e6a27f83a8e828b802c37adc6e1.

364
dimensional network or web-like structure, which results in many beneficial material
properties.

Microfibrillated cellulose is often called nanocellulose. However, nanocellulose is an

umbrella term for a family of materials that Microfibrillated cellulose is a part of 907,908. The
confusion is due that fact that the fibrils are only a couple of nanometres thick, but they
are micrometres in length848,849. Microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) has been present in the
academic sector since the 1980’s, and in the last decade is becoming commercially
available on an industrial scale. Commercial production only started in 2010, mainly due
to the high energy consumption and costs of production 909. Commercialisation started in
2014 when Borregaard announced to construct the world’s first MFC producing plant in
Sarpsborg, Norway 910. Many forms of production optimisation have been developed in the
last few years. Current MFC producers in Europe are e.g. Weidmann (Germany), StoraEnso
(Finland), Borregaard (Norway), FibreLean (UK), Cellucomp (Scotland), and Lenzing
(Austria) 911.

Business drivers and barriers

MFC is a unique material that has large variety of applications in multiple industries. Based
on application, the MFC market is segmented as pulp & paper; composites & packaging;
home care; personal care; construction; and coatings 912,913,914,915. Pulp & paper currently
is the most extensive application854. MFC fibres provide benefits in these industries due
increased (wet and dry) tensile strength, less porosity, improved barrier properties,
preservation of food flavour or scent, higher printing quality, smoother surfaces, less
transparency and more. Packaging industry is expected to be one of the largest application
sectors in the future 854. Overall, the growth of microfibrillated cellulose is driven by green
movements, and the demand for more sustainable and environmentally friendly products.
For instance, providing greener packaging for consumers is a market advantage and a way
to distinguish oneself.

The limitations currently for MFC growth are high cost of manufacturing, which slows down
large-scale application850. Furthermore, the market leaders are Pulp & Paper companies,
that can provide larger quantities and set competitive prices. This can be a challenge for
smaller companies to enter the markets. One of the e merging markets for MFC is as a

907
Karppinen A. Microfibrillated cellulose, cellulose fibrils or nanocellulose? Exilva Blog.
https://www.exilva.com/blog/microfibrillated-cellulose-or-nanocellulose . Published 2018. Accessed August 27,
2020.
908
Peneder N. Not seeing the woods for the trees in the world of nanocellulose? Weidman webpage.
https://weidmannfibretechnology.com/the-world-of-nanocellulose-how-not-to-lose-sight-of-the-wood-for-the-
trees/#:~:text=As the name already says,bacteria (i.e Gluconacetobacter Xylinus).&text=Often microfibrillated
cellulose (MFC)%2C,refer to the same mat. Published 2017. Accessed August 27, 2020.
909
Lindström T, Aulin C. Market and technical challenges and opportunities in the area of innovative new materials and
composites based on nanocellulosics. Scand J For Res. 2014;29(4):345-351. doi:10.1080/02827581.2014.928365
910
TODAY’S CHALLENGES. Exilva webpage. http://www.h2020-exilva.com/todays-challenges/ . Accessed August 26,
2020.
911
University of Bologna, Fraunhofer ISI. Top 20 Innovative Bio-Based Products - Task 3 of “Study on Support to R&I
Policy in the Area of Bio-Based Products and Services.”; 2019.
https://www.biosc.de/lw_resource/datapool/systemfiles/elements/files/5a3d53e0-eb5f-11e9-b1c5-
dead53a91d31/current/document/Top20_biobasierte_Produkte.pdf
912
Exilva – agility and flexibility giving you a unique opportunity to improve rheology and endurance. Exilva webpage.
https://www.exilva.com/application-areas. Accessed August 27, 2020.
913
Microfibrillated Cellulose (MFC) Fibre Market Forecast, Trend Analysis & Competition Tracking - Global Market
Insights 2020 to 2030. Fact.MR webpage. https://www.factmr.com/report/1710/microfibrillated-cellulose-fibre-
market . Published 2020. Accessed August 27, 2020.
914
Curran® - A Microfibrillated Cellulose (MFC) Wonder Product? Curran webpage.
https://www.cellucomp.com/blog/article/curran-a-microfibrillated-cellulose-mfc-wonder-product-1. Accessed
August 25, 2020.
915
StoraEnso. Microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) – A natural performance enhancer for bio-based packaging materials.
StoraEnso Website. https://www.storaenso.com/en/products/bio-based-materials/mfc-for-packaging . Accessed
August 31, 2020.

365
“green” flooding agent in oil and gas industries 916,917. This segment is likely to be affected
by the Covid-19 pandemic as oil consumption has dropped due travel restrictions858. In
some applications, the target markets are conservative, and it can take time and effort to
penetrate the markets 918.

Innovation drivers and barriers

MFC is obtained through a fibrillation process of cellulose fibres. Normally wood pulp is
used as feedstock, however it can be extracted from plant-waste855,919 and it can be also
produced by bacteria849. Using mechanical shearing, the cellulose fibres are separated into
a three-dimensional network of microfibrils with a large surface area. The obtained fibrils
are much smaller in diameter compared to the original fibres and can form a network or a
web-like structure860.

Benefits of MFC include increased strength, barrier properties, biodegradability, very high-
water holding capacity, rheology modification (=viscosity modification). These superior
properties are not found in other materials 920 and make it attractive for a wide variety of
industries and applications849,851 ,855.

MFC fibres provide a wide range of benefits specifically for paper making, such as increased
tensile strength, improved barrier properties, smoother surfaces 921. In packaging
applications, it offers a great future alternative for aluminium and conventional plastics856.
The MFC property of high-water holding capacity and ability to bond strongly as gel at low
concentrations enabling stabilizing water-based formulations or keeping surfaces longer
wetted. This is beneficial in coatings and concrete applications. This MFC fibres are thin
and when bonding together this creates strength that is useful in composite materials,
films and barriers 860,862. Investments to R&D by companies and governments to boost MFC
innovations is high.

A barrier for applicability of MFC is its poor thermal stability. Research is ongoing how the
properties change when subjected to higher temperatures and how they could be improved
922,923
. In complex formulations (composites) compatibility is an issue. The barrier in
innovation is to connect the unique properties of the material to the desired formulation to
benefit the end-product. Especially in plastic packaging hydrophilicity of MFC is an issue
and a challenge 861.

The lack of standardization is currently a challenge to ensure consistent quality of material

to the markets 924. Therefore, setting up industry standards can help to set up security of

916
Rønneberg HG. Can Microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) boost Enhanced Oil Recovery? Exilva Blog.
https://www.exilva.com/blog/can-microfibrillated-cellulose-mfc-boost-enhanced-oil-recovery. Published 2016.
Accessed August 31, 2020.
917
Global Market Insights. Nanocellulose Market Size by Product (Nano fibrillated Cellulose, Nanocrystalline Cellulose),
by Application (Composites, Paper Processing, Food & Beverages, Paints & Coatings, Oil & Gas, Personal Care),
Industry Analysis Report, Regional Outlook, Growth . Global Market Insights website.
https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/nanocellulose-market. Published 2020. Accessed August 31, 2020.
918
News B-BW, COWI, Institute E, Innovation ECD-G for R and. Bio-Based Products: From Idea to Market “15 EU
Success Stories”. Publications Office of the European Union; 2019.
https://books.google.nl/books?id=4XJeyQEACAAJ.
919
Jovic M. Microfibrillated cellulose: A new material with high potential in the packaging industry. Prescouter
webpage. https://www.prescouter.com/2017/11/microfibrillated-cellulose-packaging/ . Published 2017. Accessed
August 25, 2020.
920
Expert opinion. Interview with an industry expert in the framework of this project.
921
Valmet. Microfibrillated Cellulose. Valmet Website. https://www.valmet.com/board-and-paper/stock-
preparation/microfibrillated-cellulose/ . Accessed August 31, 2020
922
Hiltunen S, Koljonen K, Niemelä K, Heiskanen I, Johansson L-S, Backfolk K. Hydrothermally induced changes in the
properties of MFC and characterization of the low molar mass degradation products. Cellulose. 2019;26(16):8589-
8605. doi:10.1007/s10570-019-02603-w
923
Accesswire. Analyzing the Coronavirus Impact: Microfibrillated Cellulose (MFC) Fibre Manufacturers Find
Opportunities in Food Packaging Industry. Website. https://www.accesswire.com/596085/Analyzing-the-
Coronavirus-Impact-Microfibrillated-Cellulose-MFC-Fibre-Manufacturers-Find-Opportunities-in-Food-Packaging-
Industry. Published 2020. Accessed August 25, 2020.
924
Soidinsalo O, Holtan S, Moosavifar A. Microfibrillated Cellulose A Novel and Renewable Multifunctional Additive for
Waterborne Coatings. Coatingsworld. 2019;06(01). https://www.coatingsworld.com/issues/2019-06-

366
supply. These standards have not been developed yet and constitute an innovation barrier
861.

Economic drivers and barriers

Europe is the leading regional market for MFC and nanocellulose, which is due the large
R&D efforts of Pulp & Paper companies and governments864. Europe is also expected to
continue as a leader in the markets as it is the location of the main manufacturers854. It is
expected that CARG from 2020 to 2030 will be 13% 854. It is difficult to find numbers for
volumes of microfibrillated cellulose sold, however. Borregaard-owned Exilva produces
1000 tonne/year852,853 and Scotland-based CelluComp produce their Curran-product in
quantities of 500 tonne/year859. The value of the Nanocellulose market, that includes micro
fibrillated cellulose, is estimated in 2019 to be 147 million USD (approximately 132 million
Euros). This is expected to increase with 21% CARG to 418 million USD (approximately
376 million Euros) in 2026858.

A barrier for scale-up of operations is the high initial investments859. This can be an issue
for larger scale production of MFC products.

Feedstock drivers and barriers

Advantage of MFC is that it can be derived from non-food and non-land use competing
materials. Any materials with cellulose suffice. The main feedstock source of MFC is from
pulp and paper, however, it can be derived from plan-based wastes as well855.

Feedstock challenges for large-scale application, especially for non-forestry biomass, is a

steady supply of seasonal biomass859, though it is normally expected that MFC production
will be linked to a steady supply of feedstock861.

Climate change and environmental drivers and barriers

The fact that MFC has such a wide range of applications and that it offers superior
performance in many applications enables it to replace fossil-sourced materials. E.g. in
coatings applications it offers a VOC-free alternative as a binding agent865 924. MFC is also
biodegradable, offering an environmentally friendly option in e.g. the packaging sector856.

A barrier is the sustainability proof. LCA systems are complicated and difficult to
understand, which is a barrier in communication of the results. It is also difficult to relate
it to energy. Furthermore, many companies do not want to disclose this data in the same
manner. This is a challenge and a barrier for progress861.

Citizen and Society drivers and barriers

MFC is non-harmful, and therefore, available to use in cosmetics, pharma and other
healthcare and personal care applications. Specifically, MFC is biocompatible, meaning it is
not harmful or toxic to living tissue and usable in applications like surgical equipment or
prosthesis. MFC is a safer alternative to e.g. bisphenol A and phthalates856.

Possible barrier for MFC uptake is the unknown effects due long-term and low-level
exposure to human health. This is especially important for worker exposure, like exposure
to dust or fine particles when handling the material 925.

01/view_technical-papers/microfibrillated-cellulose-a-novel-and-renewable-multifunctional-additive-for-
waterborne-coatings/
925
Ede JD, Ong KJ, Goergen M, Rudie A, Pomeroy-Carter CA, Shatkin JA. Risk Analysis of Cellulose Nanomaterials by
Inhalation: Current State of Science. Nanomater . 2019;9(3). doi:10.3390/nano9030337

367
Policy and regulation drivers and barriers

As MFC has large opportunities in packaging applications, the government regulations that
ban the use of non-biodegradable packaging is a clear driver.

MFC also provides improved strength in applications, like aviation and other transportation
vehicle material development where lower emissions and better fuel efficiency can be
achieved with light-weight materials 926. Regulations that would promote the use of bio-
based materials in these sectors and consequently drive the markets even further. REACH
is a clear driver here861.

Politics should be more firm usage of polluting industries and habits and be brawer in
initiating regulations. Of course, these involve risks when banning things, but it is a way
of doing this. Lack of push/view for regulation is a barrier861.

Drivers for, and barriers to, bio-based uptake of polymers and plastics, specifically for
thermoplastic starch

Table 61. Summary table for driver for, and barriers to market uptake of thermoplastic starch.

Category Drivers Barriers

1: Business Inexpensive raw material Consolidated markets with 5 main players

Quests for sustainable plastics and packaging by TPS is poor material as such, need to be
consumers and brand owners blended with other materials, competes
Growing markets of bioplastics with other bio-based plastics
Low price and established markets of fossil
alternatives

2: Highly suitable for flexible packaging, and odour Poor performance by itself
Innovation and taste sensitive packaging like food.
Simple processing and blending with other
plastics, suitable for injection moulding with
conventional equipment

3: Economy Bioplastics contribute significantly to the European

bioeconomy, e.g. creating jobs

4: Feedstock Available raw materials, such as corn, wheat, Food crops need to be used as raw material
potato.
Available from waste sources

5: Climate TPS can offer GHG emission saving, however this Knowledge of environmental performance
change and is dependent on the product is it combined with of TPS containing products is sometimes
environment Biodegradable lacking
Compostable
Recyclable

6: Citizen Customers wish to buy products that are Consumer awareness and knowledge of
and Society environmentally friendly bioplastics is not very high, e.g. some
TPS is also odourless and tasteless making it wrong expectations can cause barriers for
acceptable for packaging of sensitive goods. market uptake

7: Policy and EU legislation mandating separate collection of Lack of strong regulatory push for bio-
regulation bio-waste as of 1 Jan 2024 based products in Europe
Ban on the use of non-compostable single use
plastic bags in selected geographies/countries
Starch-based bioplastics meets European
standard UNI EN17033 for soil-biodegradable
mulching films eligible for organic farming

926
Hjørnevik M. The future of Aerospace, and its demand for new materials. Exilva Blog.
https://www.exilva.com/blog/the-future-of-aerospace-and-its-demand-for-new-materials . Published 2017.
Accessed August 31, 2020.

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Introduction

Bio-based polymers and plastics are various biomass sourced materials. This analysis will
focus on thermoplastic starch (TS) which is 100% bio-based, readily biodegradable, easily
modified both physically and chemically, and available in bulk in all parts of the world at
low cost 927.

Thermoplastic starch is made from starch. It is a biopolymer obtained from renewable plant
resources, such as maize, wheat, cassava, and potato harvests. Starch consists of two
component polymers, amylose (AM) and amylopectin (AP). When starch is mixed with
water or other plasticizer, like glycerol or sorbitol, and heated, the crystalline structure of
starch is disrupted. It forms bonds (hydrogen bonds) with the plasticizer and gelatinizes.
Shear force is often required for gelatinization, thus extruders or mixers are used to
homogenize and process the material for the suitable moulding application. Consequently,
the formed thermoplastic starch can be moulded at elevated temperatures 928.

As such thermoplastic starch is a brittle material, but blended with other polymers, fillers
or fibres the properties can be improved. Thermoplastic starch can be blended with
polymers, like polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl alcohol and polylactic
acid (PLA) 929. Some of these polymers can be produced using biomaterials, however, PLA
is currently the only 100% bio-based polymer on the market. TPS is an attractive material
for sustainable packaging and films, especially for food packaging.

Bioplastics are used in an increasing number of markets, from packaging, catering

products, consumer electronics, automotive, agriculture/horticulture, and toys to textiles
and several other segments. Packaging remains the largest field of application for
bioplastics with more than 53 percent (1.14 million tonnes) of the total bioplastics market
in 2019. However, the portfolio of applications continues to diversify with segments, such
as automotive & transport or building & construction, significantly increasing their share.

Business drivers and barriers

Thermoplastic starch is a relatively simple material to produce and therefore inexpensive.

In 2016, the price of starch blended plastics was estimated between 2-4 EUR/kg. For
comparison, other bio-based plastics (PHA, PBS) were estimated at 4-5 EUR/kg and
conventional PE and PP were priced at 1-1.5 EUR/kg850. TPS is mainly used for packaging
and film applications 930. According to a European Bioplastics-report for 2019 930 the global
TPS production capacity was approximately 428 ktonnes from which 370 ktonnes in flexible
packaging, approximately 30 ktonnes in rigid packaging and another 30 ktonnes in agri
and horticulture. TPS had the highest production capacity of global bioplastics production
with a share of 21.3% in 2019. The expected growth for global total bioplastics production
according to the study in the next 5 year (until 2024) is expected to be 14.7%. However,
the global share of TPS is expected to drop due to competition with other bio-based
plastics. Especially PHA is expected to grow significantly in the next years. The forecasted
share of TPS in 2024 is 18.5% 931 owing to a growth in production capacity of 20 ktonnes
in the next 5 years resulting in approximately 5% growth.

927
Gotro J. Thermoplastic Starch: A Renewable, Biodegradable Bioplastic. Polymer Innovation Blog.
https://polymerinnovationblog.com/thermoplastic-starch-a-renewable-biodegradable-bioplastic/ . Published 2013.
Accessed September 10, 2020.
928
Shanks R, Kong I. Thermoplastic Starch. In: Thermoplastic Elastomers. ; 2012. doi:10.5772/36295
929
Oever M van den, Molenveld K, Zee van der M, Bos H. Bio-Based and Biodegradable Plastics – Facts and Figures.;
2017. https://www.wur.nl/upload_mm/1/e/7/01452551-06c5-4dc3-b278-173da53356bb_170421 Report Bio-
based Plastic Facts.pdf
930
European Bioplastics, nova-Institute. Bioplastics Market Data.; 2019. https://docs.european-
bioplastics.org/publications/market_data/Report_Bioplastics_Market_Data_2019.pdf
931
European Bioplastics. BIOPLASTICS MARKET DEVELOPMENT UPDATE 2019.; 2019. https://docs.european-
bioplastics.org/publications/market_data/2019/Report_Bioplastics_Market_Data_2019_short_version.pdf

369
According to Mordor Intelligence Market Snapshot 932 for TPS, the global CAGR is expected
to come to more than 7% in the forecast period of 2020 – 2025. They report that the
market is consolidated and mainly operated by 5 major players, such as Novamont SpA,
BIOTEC, Plantic (Kuraray), Biome Bioplastics Limited, and AGRANA Beteiligungs-AG. The
largest market is in Europe, which is driven by the governments and European policies
supporting sustainable packaging. However, Asia is expected to grow significantly over the
next years. Especially in China and India, the use of agricultural films is increasing due to
increase in population and consequent food production, and also due to the rise of the food
processing industry. Furthermore, India is going to phase out usage of single-use
packaging by 2022, which will provide opportunities for bio-based plastics to increase
market shares.

The main drivers of TPS are increased demand of sustainable, bio-based and biodegradable
plastics by consumers and brands owners 933. Usage of TPS provides additional advantages
for the product, such as lower carbon footprint and biodegradability. The business barriers
for TPS are the consolidated markets by the main players853, which might present
challenges for newcomers to enter the field. In addition, the packaging industry is highly
focused on recyclability over bio-based, which might hinder the drive for the demand of
TPS. Furthermore, as TPS is as such a poor material and requires further processing to
yield a useable end-product, it can expect to experience competition from other bio-based
plastics that have better properties and performance in applications. Furthermore, fossil-
based plastics are cheaper and have established markets which is a challenge for TPS and
other bio-based plastics to achieve strong market standing.

Innovation drivers and barriers

TPS has favourable set of mechanical properties, and products made of it have good
dimensional stability in application conditions for carrier bags, non-fibre bags, waste-bags,
vegetable bags, mulch film and so on 850, 853. Processing of TPS is simple and it can be
blended with other plastics with extrusion.

However, several drawbacks in their technical performance compared to other polymers

are related to their hydrophilic character and poor mechanical property.

Economic drivers and barriers

Bioplastics are important part of the European bioeconomy. Approximately 25% of

bioplastics is produced in Europe852. The bioplastics industry offered 23 000 jobs in Europe
in 2013 854. It is expected that this number could reach up to 300 000 in 2030 if favourable
conditions for bio-based plastics are in place 854. Increase in employment is one of the
biggest economic impacts of bioplastics. This will also favour the prospects of TPS, which
is currently the most produced bio-based plastics material.

Feedstock drivers and barriers

TPS is made from starches, such as corn, wheat or potato. These are available materials
that, however, are also suitable for food production. According to a European Bioplastics
estimation852, bioplastics feedstocks in total use less than 0.02% of the global agricultural
land. Despite the forecasted growth, this is still expected to stay around 0.02%. However,
politically this is a challenging topic that is under scrutiny 934. Therefore, the fact that TPS
is made from food sources is a major barrier.

932
Mordor Intelligence. THERMOPLASTIC STARCH (TPS) MARKET - GROWTH, TRENDS, AND FORECASTS (2020 -
2025). Mordor Intelligence website. https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/global-thermoplastic-
starch-market . Accessed September 9, 2020
933
European Bioplastics. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ON BIOPLASTICS.; 2020. https://docs.european-
bioplastics.org/publications/EUBP_FAQ_on_bioplastics.pdf
934
nova-Institute. The state of the European bio-based economy is very mixed, the market is in a critical phase.
Pressrelease. http://news.bio-based.eu/michael-carus-ceo-of-nova-institute-in-an-interview-with-bio-based-news-

370
Climate change and environmental drivers and barriers

The processing of TPS is simple and since it is a bio-based material its environmental
performance in terms of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions is lower than fossil alternatives.
However, as TPS is often processed with other plastics to achieve the production material,
the environmental impact is highly dependent on the material the composite material is
made of 935. According to a Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) study of Broeren et al. 856, some grades
of starch composites offer 85% of GHG reduction and others an increase of 80% on the
same weight-basis. Additives in the starch-based plastics are often necessary and they can
count for 40% of the emissions. Especially, when starch is sourced from wastes and is not
“virgin” material the environmental impacts are much lower. Especially, eutrophication and
land use impacts are then minimized. In summary, the drivers in this category are
biodegradability, compostability and recyclability along with GHG saving when starch is
sustainably sourced.

A barrier from environmental point of view is the lack of knowledge and communication of
environmental benefits of TPS containing products. With a standardized Life Cycle Analysis
one could offer comparable results of the environmental performance which helps to
understand the benefits of the products and dispel any misconception of bioplastics.

Citizen and Society drivers and barriers

Usage of bio-based plastics is highly driven by the demand for sustainable, biodegradable
packaging by consumers and brand owners854. According to European Bioplastics,
approximately 80% of the European consumers wish to buy products which have minimal
impact on the environment. This is a strong driver for TPS- based products as well.
Furthermore, TPS based films are transparent, colourless, tasteless, and odourless.
Therefore, they are highly suitable for packaging of goods that are sensitive to smells and
colours, such as food, offering a material that does not interfere with the product.

A barrier to the use of bioplastics is that consumer expectations and terminology of

bioplastics are not always clear854. Wrong expectations can cause misunderstanding about
the nature of the products and this causes issues for acceptance of bioplastics. Therefore,
more education is needed with clear labelling of products to increase the awareness and
consequent market uptake. This requires both the industry and brands to work together.

Policy and regulation drivers and barriers

Several policies are in place to support bio-based plastics. EU legislation mandating

separate collection of bio-waste as of 1 Jan 2024 will enhance the use of biodegradable
and compostable plastics, such as TPS 936. Some countries in Europe have banned the use
of non-compostable single use plastic bags, like France and Italy 937. These kinds of policies
will support bio-based product demand and usage and is likely to influence TPS uptake too.

A barrier to bio-based product uptake is lack of a strong regulatory push from EU. With
regulations, such as quota of bio-based materials, it would be possible to ensure that bio-
based products are used in increasing amounts.

on-the-european-bio-based-economy-and-a-shift-towards-a-renewable-carbon-economy/ . Published 2019.

Accessed September 10, 2020
935
Broeren MLM, Kuling L, Worrell E, Shen L. Environmental impact assessment of six starch plastics focusing on
wastewater-derived starch and additives. Resour Conserv Recycl. 2017;127:246-255.
doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.resconrec.2017.09.001
936
Favoino E, Giavini M. Bio-Waste Generation in the EU: Current Capture Levels and Future Potential.; 2020.
https://zerowasteeurope.eu/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/2020_07_06_bic_zwe_report_bio_waste.pdf
937
News B-BW, COWI, Institute E, Innovation ECD-G for R and. Bio-Based Products: From Idea to Market “15 EU
Success Stories”. Publications Office of the European Union; 2019.
https://books.google.nl/books?id=4XJeyQEACAAJ

371
Drivers for, and barriers to, bio-based uptake of polymers and plastics, specifically for
thermoplastic starch

Table 62. Summary for specific drivers and barriers for 1,4-BDO.

Category Drivers Barriers

1: Business 1. At present (May 2020) slow uptake Limited market in EU

for bio-based 1,4 BDO For European production of bio-based 1,4-
2. Growing demand for sustainable BDO the biggest challenges are end-use
fibre and biopolymers in Europe and industry saturation and low oil price
US are like to favour the production 1,4-BDO price is still affected by the market
of bio-based 1,4-BDO
3. Novel markets
4. Similar technical characteristics
than fossil BDO

2: Innovation At industrial scale bio-based 1,4-BDO is Efficient extraction of sugars from

cost competitive lignocellulosic material challenging and costly
Process improvement Succinic acid is barely being made, this route
Two commercial routes: sugars from is likely not feasible
corn and from lignocellulosic feedstock 1. Succinic acid is a higher value product,
Alternative routes from butane and rendering it not suitable as a starting
benzene could provide additional material
production pathways

3: Economy New (fossil/bio) 1,4-BDO capacities are

mainly built in Asia as home of most end-use
industries e.g. textile, automotive, footwear
Lack of downstream integration with the end-
use industry
Lack of end-policies to allowing to valorise
sludges from bio-BDO production as fertilizers
4: Feedstock Suitable feedstocks for producing 1. Agricultural land is needed
glucose syrup (raw material for Risks associated with an increase in demand
fermentation), are widely available for biomass feedstock need to be considered

5: Climate Bio-based route has significant reduction 1. Low selectivity conversion and energy
change and of GHG emissions compared to fossil intensive downstream processing process
environment route - above 50%
6: Citizen and Consumer concern about plastic waste 1. Toxicity
Society pollution 2. THF (BDO derivative) health and safety
issues
3. Potential use as a drug
4. “Fake” bio-based plastic products on the
market with misleading claims
Paradox between environmental appeal and
disposal behaviour of consumers

7: Policy and Ban on the use of non-compostable Lack of strong regulatory push for bio-based
regulation single use plastic bags in selected products in Europe
geographies/countries Potential of automotive industry not realized
BDO-derived bioplastics meets European due lack of standardization and regulation of
standard UNI EN17033 for soil- bio-based materials
biodegradable mulching films eligible for
organic farming
EU legislation mandating separate
collection of bio-waste as of 1 Jan 2024
Legislations are being implemented to
promote increasing percentage of bio-
based content in bioplastics

Introduction - Drop-in building block - 1,4-butanediol (BDO)

Building blocks are chemicals and starting materials used in the formulation of a broad
range of products. They are also often referred as platform chemicals and they form, by
definition, a large group and are very diverse in nature.

372
To tackle this broad group, it has been divided in drop-in and dedicated chemicals. Drop-
in chemicals are bio-based versions of existing fossil-based chemicals which have
established markets. Chemically they are identical to existing fossil-based chemicals.

Dedicated bio-based chemicals cannot be produced from fossil sources. They have their
own dedicated pathway and they do not have a fossil-sourced counterpart. As a bio-based
drop-in building block 1,4-Butanediol was chosen as a representative.

Business drivers and barriers

1,4-Butanediol (BDO) is commercially produced from fossil feedstock and from renewable
(bio-based) feedstock. Fossil-based production is dominating the market although bio-
based production is established in Europe, US and Asia 938,939. Fossil based BDO is produced
from acetylene or propylene oxide and has a market size of nearly 1 million tonnes 939.
Novamont owned Mater-Biotech is producing bio-based BDO in Adria, Italy in quantities of
up to 30 kta, which they use for production of bio-based plastics 940.

The largest fossil consumption (40%) 849 of BDO is for tetrahydrofuran (THF) used as a
monomer in the production of polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG), which is used in
the manufacturing of polyurethane fibres (Spandex), cast and TPU elastomers, and high-
performance copolyester-polyether elastomers. These materials are used in various sectors
such as clothes, sportswear, automotive, aviation, pharmaceutical, etc. 848,849.

Other important derivatives of BDO are: gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) used as solvent in

paint strippers, circuit board cleaning products, and the production of herbicides and
pharmaceutical products; polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) used for production of
electrical and automotive components and polybutylene succinate (PBS) used for
biodegradable packaging 941.

Production of fossil and bio-based BDO is tied to the cost of oil and natural gas. At current
low oil and natural gas prices the prospects of drop-in chemicals are low (July 2020: oil
39.75 USD/bbl, NG 1.71 USD/MMBtu). Earlier estimation has suggested that production of
bio-based BDO is cost competitive at low oil prices of 45 USD/bbl and a natural gas price
of 3.50 USD/MMBtu. The cost of production via fermentation would be 15-30% lower than
production from fossil sources (6). Currently, bio-based BDO has not reached its
expectations 942.

However, Novamont uses BDO for entirely different bioplastic applications in which
conventional plastics are not competitive. The markets for Mater-Bi plastics from BDO,
where compostability and biodegradability is key, are e.g. compostable plastic shopping
bags, soil-biodegradable mulching films and organic waste collection bags850,943.
Furthermore, a growing market for sustainable fibres and films in Europe and US can help
to drive BDO markets further848,.

The barriers for BDO development are limited markets in the EU as mentioned above. The
saturated end-use market and low oil prices are the biggest threats. BDO production via
fermentation requires distillation, which is an energy intensive process and improving the

938
Crnomarkovic M, Panchaksharam Y, Spekreijse J, Vom Berg C, Puente A, Chinthapalli R. Road to Bio Business
Cases: Case Studies on Potentially Attractive Opportunities for Bio-Based Chemicals in Europe Consortium.; 2018
939
Stichnothe H, Bell G, Jørgensen H, et al. Bio-Based Chemicals A 2020 Update Bio-Based Chemicals A 2020 Update
With Input from: (Pdf Version) Published by IEA Bioenergy.; 2020
940
Novamont. Mater-Biotech-factsheet. https://www.novamont.com/public/zip/factsheet_materbiotech_EN_web.pdf.
Accessed July 6, 2020.
941
Hulea V. Toward Platform Chemicals from Bio-Based Ethylene: Heterogeneous Catalysts and Processes. ACS Catal.
2018;8(4):3263-3279. doi:10.1021/acscatal.7b04294
942
de Guzman D. Bio-based Building Blocks 2020: Commercialisation update. In: 13th International Conference on
Bio-Based Materials. Online; 2020
943
Novamont. MATER-BI SOIL-BIODEGRADABLE FOR MULCHING FILM, CERTIFIED FOR ORGANIC FARMING BY AIAB.
Pressrelease. https://www.novamont.com/eng/read-press-release/mater-bi-soil-biodegradable-for-mulching-film-
certified-for-organic-farming-by-aiab/ . Accessed July 14, 2020.

373
efficiency of this process would cut costs and thus enhance the competitiveness of bio-
based BDO production Furthermore, improving the selectivity of fermentation will help. 848,.

Innovation drivers and barriers

Estimations have shown that at industrial scale BDO production could be cost
competitive848,. BDO can be produced from sugars or lignocellulosic materials.
Improvement of sugar extraction from lignocellulosic material would represent an
opportunity for further cost-competitiveness848,. Realization of alternative chemical routes
from butane or benzene could also provide additional pathways. BDO has been previously
produced from succinic acid, however, it has proven not to be a feasible route 848,944 as
succinic acid is suffering from bad market uptake and is also a higher value product than
BDO848.

Economic drivers and barriers

Currently BDO development in Europe is hindered by development of industries in Asia.

This goes for both fossil and bio-based BDO production as the end-use industries are also
more focused in that region 848. Furthermore, the lack of down-stream integration with the
end-user industry is inhibiting BDO development 848,945. BDO utilization in Europe is done
by the chemical manufacturer themselves855. In addition, lack of end-waste policies to
allowing to valorise sludges from bio-BDO production as fertilizers 946.

Feedstock drivers and barriers

BDO can be produced by sugar-based feedstock which is readily available. This requires
the use of agricultural land, which possess a risk for demand for biomass feedstock848. In
the future more efficient conversion of lignocellulosic biomass can provide an alternative
feedstock for BDO.

Climate change and environmental drivers and barriers

Bio-based BDO production has above 50% savings of Greenhouse gas emissions848, 850.
Despite this, the process of BDO production is still energy intensive848. Process
development may provide solutions to improve this.

Citizen and Society drivers and barriers

Specific barriers related to BDO comes from its toxicity and possible usage as a
recreational drug 947. BDO metabolizes in human body quickly to GHB (gamma
hydroxybutyrate) which causes feelings of euphoria and can also lead to unconsciousness
or coma and possible death. In addition, one of the main applications of BDO,
Tetrahydrofuran (THF), has been related to several health and safety concerns848.
Compostability of BDO-based plastics are drivers for its market, however, a recent study
revealed that there lies a paradox in the consumer behaviour of environmentally friendly
appealing products. Most consumers do not know how to properly dispose these items
thus the full environmentally beneficial potential is not achieved 948. BDO has markets in

944
McCoy M. Succinic acid, once a biobased chemical star, is barely being made. Chemical & Engineering News.
https://cen.acs.org/business/biobased-chemicals/Succinic-acid-once-biobased-chemical/97/i12 . Published
February 20, 2019.
945
News B-BW, COWI, Institute E, Innovation ECD-G for R and. Bio-Based Products: From Idea to Market “15 EU
Success Stories”. Publications Office of the European Union; 2019.
https://books.google.nl/books?id=4XJeyQEACAAJ
946
Expert comment on the factsheet within the scope of this project.
947
World Health Organization Expert Committee on Drug Dependence. 1,4-Butanediol (I,4 BD) Critical Review Report
(2014).; 2014. https://www.who.int/medicines/areas/quality_safety/4_4_Review.pdf
948
Taufik D, Reinders MJ, Molenveld K, Onwezen MC. The paradox between the environmental appeal of bio-based
plastic packaging for consumers and their disposal behaviour. Sci Total Environ. 2020;705:135820.
doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.135820

374
the automotive industry, however, this industry has not yet developed an eco-labelling
system that would stimulate markets and enable more informed purchasing behaviour in
terms of environmentally friendly materials 949 . In addition to this, the bio-based plastic
bags markets contain also “fake” products that do not meet the standards and take away
market share from the genuinely bio-based products855.

Policy and regulation drivers and barriers

BDO development in Europe has been driven by the regulations in France and Italy to ban
the use of single-use plastic bags 855. In addition, BDO-derived bioplastics meet European
standard UNI EN17033 for soil-biodegradable mulching films eligible for organic farming,
which enhances the production as well. BDO is currently used for manufacturing of
compostable plastic bags and EU legislation mandating separate collection of bio-waste as
of 1st January 2024 will improve this even further 950. Yet, a strong regulatory push for
usage of bio-based products within EU is needed to enhance the developments of BDO 855
and in general drop-in chemicals, which suffer from low oil prices. According to expert
opinion gathered in the scope of this project, legislations are being implemented to
promote increasing percentage of bio-based content in bioplastics856.

BDO-derived materials have market potential in automotive industry that must reach
stricter standards in a more critical climate regarding CO2-emissions. These materials are
interesting option for the industry due the fact that the environmental footprint of the
product itself will decrease but can also reduce the footprint in the usage phase. Bio-based
plastics are lighter in weight which contributes to lower fuel consumption and therefore to
lower emissions as well. Unfortunately, the full potential is hindered due the fact that there
is lack of knowledge in the industry itself about bio-based materials, especially at the end
of life. Also, internal standardization and regulations regarding bio-based materials do not
exist yet859.

Drivers for, and barriers to, bio-based uptake in Building Blocks (Lactic acid)

Table 63. Summary for specific drivers for, and barriers to Lactic Acid market uptake

Category Drivers Barriers

1: Business Multiple markets for LA: in chemical industry PLA applications are focused mainly in
and as a building block, food, cosmetics, and two groups: food and packaging
pharmaceuticals PLA uses in other applications than
Derivatives of lactic acid have multiple plastic still low
application fields and markets Poor performance compared to
LA demand is driven by “green” movements conventional plastic
Improvements of PLA properties and processing
offer new market opportunities
PLA has a lower price than other biodegradable
polymers
Unstable petroleum prices
Increasing demand from developing countries
Customers willing to pay higher price for PLA in
return of marketing advantage and
achievement of sustainability goals
Ethyl lactate has better performance than some
fossil-based solvents

949
Wurster S, Ladu L. Bio-Based Products in the Automotive Industry: The Need for Ecolabels, Standards, and
Regulations. Sustainability. 2020;12(4):1623. doi:10.3390/su12041623
950
Favoino E, Giavini M. Bio-Waste Generation in the EU: Current Capture Levels and Future Potential.; 2020.
https://zerowasteeurope.eu/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/2020_07_06_bic_zwe_report_bio_waste.pdf

375
 2: Innovation Ethyl lactate to replace fossil-based traditional PLA needs industrial composting and
solvents high temperature to degrade, however
LA offers a new route to acrylic acid, however industries would prefer shorter than
this requires more resources than other standard times
synthesis routes Capital investments for improvement
of the available technologies are high
Recycling of PLA is limited with current
technology and current usage

3: Economy Bioplastics, like PLA, are improving European Production of LA requires knowledge
bioeconomy, creating employment and capital, which is a barrier for
opportunities, and increasing Europe’s smaller companies to enter the field
competitiveness Two producers cover 43% of the
PLA demand is high, which drives the industry, (European) PLA production
however this requires knowledge to make LA Asia Pacific, not Europe, is the fastest-
first growing region for the PLA market,
both in terms of revenue and volume

4: Feedstock LA is produced using naturally occurring raw 1. Agricultural land is needed to

materials such as corn, sugarcane, cassava, produce feedstock for LA
and others 2. Data is needed for chemical
Availability of lignocellulosic sugars would offer composition, regional and
more options for feedstocks seasonal availability of agricultural
Agricultural waste potentially a source residues, wastes and by-products
to provide predictable and
effective combining for LA
production

5: Climate Lactic acid and its derivatives (PLA and ethyl PLA needs a separate recycling stream
change and lactate) are biodegradable or compostable in No established recycling stream for
environment nature PLA yet
GHG reduction of PLA packaging compared to
fossil equivalents (30-70%)
PLA is a chemically recyclable polymer
Ethyl lactate was listed as part of the EPA’s
SNAP as a solvent that meets the ozone
protection provisions of the Clean Air Act (EPA
2015b, EIA 2014)

6: Citizen and Rising environmental concerns

Society Quest for sustainability in packaging
Changing to bio-based packaging is often easier
than changing product formulation
LA has low toxicity to humans

7: Policy and Favourable regulations toward the use of bio- Lack of strong regulatory push for bio-
regulation based materials, are expected to give an based products, currently packaging
impetus to the market over the forecast period directives are focused on recyclability
EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive and not on bio-based
drives for more sustainable packaging
Policy support for utilization 2nd and 3rd
generation feedstock would stimulate research,
developed and faster deployment of larger
scale production of LA-derived polymers

Introduction - Dedicated building block – Lactic acid

Building blocks are chemicals and starting materials used in the formulation of a broad
range of products. They are also often referred as platform chemicals and they form, by
definition, a large group and are very diverse in nature.

To tackle this broad group, it has been divided in drop-in and dedicated chemicals. Drop-
in chemicals are bio-based versions of existing fossil-based chemicals which have
established markets. Chemically they are identical to existing fossil-based chemicals.

376
Dedicated bio-based chemicals cannot be produced from fossil sources. They have their
own dedicated pathway and they do not have fossil-sourced counterpart. As a bio-based
dedicated building block lactic acid was chosen as a representative.

Business drivers and barriers

Lactic acid (LA) has multiple markets. It is used in the chemical industry as a building
block, in food applications, cosmetics, and in pharmaceuticals 951, 952. The largest segment
of LA is in manufacturing of Poly Lactic Acid (PLA), which counts for 28.3% of LA market849.
The second largest application of LA is in food and beverages (28.0 %) and the 3rd largest
application field is as solvent which counts for 22.0 % 953. Ethyl lactate is one of the novel
and important solvents produced from LA. Many LA derived bio-based chemicals are
biodegradable and non-toxic which acts as driver for LA production 954,955.

The largest driver for LA demand increase is expected to be from PLA. PLA is used in
multiple industries, such as: food packaging, medical, textile, automotive, and the
agricultural sector. Growing use of bioplastics in flexible packaging is expected to drive the
market for PLA as well852. Recent advancements in PLA properties, such as heat resistance,
co-polymer production that enables increased strength is providing more market
opportunities for PLA 956,957. The medical segment is evaluated to be the fastest growing
segment in the foreseeable future (until 2028) 958. In addition, PLA-derived coatings are
also expected to show large growth. In growing economies, like China, India and Indonesia
utilization of PLA in the products in various industries including packaging, agriculture,
transport, electronics, and textiles is increasing852. PLA, starch blends, cellulose, and other
bioplastics achieve significantly higher growth rates than conventional standard plastics
959
. The unstable petroleum prices are also acting as a driver for PLA market uptake855. LA
is not sourced from fossil raw materials; thus, it is not affected by fluctuating oil prices.

The majority of the PLA is used by the food industry for packaging of sensitive food
products and in general, the packaging sector is considered to be the most contributing
sector of the PLA market in both volume and revenue855. Globally, one third of the market
is covered by packaging852. Packaging is in general the largest sector for bioplastics; more
than 60% of the bioplastics produced were processed in the packaging industry 856.

PLA-based engineering plastics and microwaveable containers, including food containers

and disposable cutlery, feature several beneficial properties, such as better aesthetic
appeal, good resistance to oil and grease, and better printability, which has resulted in
significant use of PLA for manufacturing food packaging products852. PLA is not cost-
competitive with conventional plastics; however, this is not an issue regarding its market
prospects. Customers using PLA are willing to pay premium prices to achieve sustainability
goals and a marketing advantage by using bio-based alternative854. Thus, another driver
for PLA and consequently for LA are “green movements”.

Lactic acid is also used for the production of ethyl lactate, which is a novel bio-based
solvent. Ethyl lactate is chemically an ester of lactic acid and ethanol and it is primarily

951
Crnomarkovic M, Panchaksharam Y, Spekreijse J, Vom Berg C, Puente A, Chinthapalli R. Road to Bio Business
cases: Case studies on potentially attractive opportunities for bio-based chemicals in Europe Consortium. 2018.
952
Ata R, Aladdin A, Othman N, Malek RA, Leng O, Aziz R, et al. Lactic acid applications in pharmaceutical and
cosmeceutical industries. J Chem Pharm Res. 2015 Oct 1;2015:729–35
953
Stichnothe H, Bell G, Jørgensen H, Bari I, Haveren J, Lindorfer J, et al. Bio-Based Chemicals A 2020 Update Bio-
Based Chemicals A 2020 Update With input from: (pdf version) Published by IEA Bioenergy. 2020
954
Grandview Research. PLA Market Size to Reach $4.1 Billion by 2025 | CAGR 19.8%. Grandview Research. 2019
955
Biddy, Mary J., Scarlata, Christopher, and Kinchin C. Chemicals from Biomass: A Market Assessment of Bioproducts
with Near-Term Potential. 2016
956
Corbion. PLA riding high [Internet]. [cited 2020 Jul 7]. Available from: https://www.total-corbion.com/about-
pla/performance/
957
Interview with an industry expert within the scope of this project.
958
Inkwood Reserach. GLOBAL POLYLACTIC ACID MARKET FORECAST 2019-2028 [Internet]. 2020 [cited 2020 Jul 7].
Available from: https://www.inkwoodresearch.com/reports/polylactic-acid-market/
959
Ceresana. Bioplastics Market Report [Internet]. 2020 [cited 2020 Jul 7]. Available from:
https://www.ceresana.com/en/market-studies/plastics/bioplastics/

377
used as an industrial solvent. The properties and performance of ethyl lactate have been
found to meet or exceed those of traditional solvents like toluene, methyl ethyl ketone,
and N-methyl-pyrrolidone in many applications851. Estimated demand for solvents in US
(2016) was approximately 5 million metric tonnes. Ethyl lactate is a competitive,
economically viable and environmentally attractive solvent to replace traditional
solvents851, 960.

Barriers for LA come from PLA developments. Currently, PLA markets have been focused
mainly on food and packaging. Its use in other application is still low. PLA has also poorer
performance than conventional plastics which is a barrier for business development.

Innovation drivers and barriers

LA is a chemical produced from sugars by fermentation. Biochemical processing is in

general a selective method to produce chemicals and recently, Corbion has improved the
LA technology to produce pure stereoisomers further improving the usage of PLA853.

Ethyl lactate has the opportunity to replace traditional fossil-based solvents with further
improvement of the production process. At the moment the solvent potentially has trace
amounts of other chemicals from the manufacturing process which is an issue in certain
applications, like food and pharma 961.

Recently, Cargill - a global leader of LA production - has patented a new technology for
acrylic acid production from LA. Acrylic acid is an important platform chemical, especially
for the plastics and coatings industry increasing the interest for LA production 962. However,
it should be noted that producing acrylic acid from LA is currently more costly than
conventional process854.

End-of-life processing of PLA is currently limited and requires industrial scale composters
at high temperatures 963,964. Despite that PLA fulfils the standards, the composting industry
wishes to process their raw materials faster. This creates issues with composting PLA.
Furthermore, recycling of PLA is currently also limited as it is not compatible to be
composted with PET. PLA must be separately recycled from other plastics. It is expected
that once PLA volumes increase, the recycling industry will also improve their operations
and enable better recycling of PLA854.

Furthermore, a barrier for LA production from waste and lignocellulosic materials is related
to the required large capital investments to improve the existing technologies to enable
feasible production yields. 965. The issues here are efficient extraction of sugars from the
raw materials and purity levels of the feedstock that can jeopardize the fermentation
process.

960
Paul S, Pradhan K, Das A. Ethyl Lactate as a Green Solvent: A Promising Bio-Compatible Media for Organic
Synthesis. Curr Green Chem. 2015 Dec 3;03:1
961
Li X, Zhang X, Jian H, Xu X, Xi Y. Biocycle Fermentation Based on Lactic Acid Bacteria and Yeast for the Production
of Natural Ethyl Lactate. ACS Omega [Internet]. 2019 Oct 1;4(14):16009–15. Available from:
https://doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.9b02121
962
Bomgardner MM. Is clarity coming for biobased chemicals? [Internet]. Chemical & Engineering News. 2020.
Available from: https://cen.acs.org/environment/sustainability/clarity-coming-biobased-
chemicals/98/i26?referral=930AA653-F007-43FB-95BC-6ECEFAA4A560
963
Panchaksharam Y, Kiri P, Bauen A, Berg C vom, Puente Á, Chinthapalli R, et al. Roadmap for the Chemical Industry
in Europe towards a Bioeconomy [Internet]. 2019. Available from:
https://www.roadtobio.eu/uploads/publications/roadmap/RoadToBio_strategy_document.pdf
964
Tullo AH. Plastic has a problem; is chemical recycling the solution? [Internet]. Chemical & Engineering News. 2020
[cited 2020 Jul 7]. Available from: https://cen.acs.org/environment/recycling/Plastic-problem-chemical-recycling-
solution/97/i39?utm_source=mostread&utm_medium=mostread&utm_campaign=CEN
965
Djukić-Vuković A, Mladenović D, Ivanović J, Pejin J, Mojović L. Towards sustainability of lactic acid and poly-lactic
acid polymers production. Renew Sustain Energy Rev [Internet]. 2019;108:238–52. Available from:
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S136403211930190X

378
Economic drivers and barriers

Bioplastics have a large impact on the European bioeconomy. PLA is the 2nd most produced
bio-based plastic, with the share of 13.9% of production capacity in Europe in 2019 966.
Increased production of bioplastics, like PLA, create job opportunities and increase the
European competitiveness. There is a high demand for PLA which welcomes new players
in the field854.

However, currently, most of LA is produced in Asia. Two companies (Corbion and Galactic)
in Europe are mainly responsible for LA production at larger scale and contribute to 19%
of the global production volume848. LA production requires knowledge of the fermentation
process and investments on the appropriate technology. This is barrier for small companies
to enter the markets. A large share of LA market is for PLA and its growth is concentrated
in Asia Pacific and not in Europe862.

Feedstock drivers and barriers

LA is produced from natural occurring materials, such as corn, sugarcane, cassava and
others855, 967. More efficient and cost-competitive extraction of lignocellulosic sugars would
offer more options for feedstock851. Furthermore, future availability of agricultural wastes
would improve this even more.

As a barrier, the current feedstocks used in LA production require agricultural land and
crops that could be used as food. This will be a barrier with European policy. Currently, LA
takes up 0.002% of agricultural land and if the production volumes would increase to 60 –
100 million tons, the share would be increased to 1-2%. Compared to production of ethanol
from food sources, that is about 4% this is still lower854. Many bio-based materials and
chemicals are produced from food-based crops and this needs further investigation to
ensure security of supply in the future. For instance, data on chemical composition,
regional and seasonal availability of agricultural residues, wastes and by-products are
lacking to provide predictable and effective combining of feedstocks for LA production 862.

Climate change and environmental drivers and barriers

Several drivers in terms of climate change and environment for LA exists. Lactic acid
derivatives, such as PLA and ethyl lactate that are high in bio-based content and are
biodegradable or compostable in nature 848, 851, 852. PLA packaging offer Green House Gas
saving of 30-70% compared to fossil counter parts 860 PLA is also chemically recyclable
polymer, which increases the opportunities for end-of-life usage. Ethyl lactate is used in
industrial applications to replace volatile organic petroleum-derived compounds 851. It is
biodegradable, non-corrosive, non-carcinogenic, low in volatile organic compounds, and it
is inexpensive to recover and recycle 851. It is listed as part of the EPA’s SNAP as a solvent
that meets the ozone protection provisions of the Clean Air Act (EPA 2015b, EIA 2014) 851

Barriers for environmental point of view is that PLA requires a separate recycling stream
860 and industrial composting units to degrade. Currently this is not utilized due low levels
of usage of PLA. Therefore, PLA end-of-life applications are limited. Furthermore, there are
no established large scale recycling streams 848,861 for PLA as there are for other plastics.

Citizen and Society drivers and barriers

LA and PLA offer “greener alternatives” in their field of applications and therefore are more
attractive also from the consumer point of view. This is linked to the rising environmental
concerns855. PLA markets and consequently LA markets are driven by the quest for

966
European Bioplastics. BIOPLASTICS MARKET DEVELOPMENT UPDATE 2019 [Internet]. 2019. Available from:
https://docs.european-
bioplastics.org/publications/market_data/2019/Report_Bioplastics_Market_Data_2019_short_version.pdf
967
de Guzman D. Bio-based Building Blocks 2020: Commercialisation update. In: 13th International Conference on
Bio-based Materials. Online; 2020

379
sustainable packaging852. Companies can reduce their environmental footprint easier by
switching to sustainable packaging rather than changing the product formulation itself.
Furthermore, increasing concern for the environment has spread the awareness for use of
PLA plastics as an alternative for fossil-based plastics. Another driver is that LA has low
toxicity to humans and therefore, it can be used applications that have high safety
standards, such as food, pharma, and personal care.

Policy and regulation drivers and barriers

Several policy drivers could improve the prospects of LA and PLA. Such as, favourable
regulations towards the use of bio-based materials are expected to drive PLA markets, and
therefore would increase the LA production as well. The use of PLA is encouraged across
the globe because of its biodegradability and being an environmentally better alternative
for conventional plastic products in many applications where is it feasible 855.

The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive drives for recovery and recycling targets
and deadlines for EU Member States oblige them to address the recovery and recycling of
used packaging, which can acts as enhancement of PLA usage and further development of
recycling of PLA 968.

To improve feedstock opportunities, the use of 2nd and 3rd generation feedstocks with policy
support for LA-derived polymers would stimulate research, developed and faster
deployment of larger scale production862.

Currently, a barrier is that packaging directives are focused on recyclability rather than
bio-based content. A strong regulatory push for increased bio-based material use is needed
854.

968
EUROPEN. EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive [Internet]. [cited 2020 Jul 14]. Available from:
https://europen-packaging.eu/policy/5-eu-packaging-and-packaging-waste-directive.html

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Drivers for, and barriers to, bio-based uptake in Building Blocks (Methanol)

Table 64. Summary for specific drivers for, and barriers to Methanol market uptake

Category Drivers Barriers

1: Business Methanol has a large market volume and is a Bio-based methanol production in
flexible platform chemical with many downstream most cases is not cost competitive
uses and as well a highly useful solvent for the with today’s fossil methanol price
synthesis of a huge portfolio of chemicals Bio-based methanol is used mainly as
Drop-in: no change in processing is necessary at a fuel, not for chemicals or materials
downstream processing
The technologies used in the production of
methanol from biomass are relatively well known
since they are comparable with the coal gasification
technology

2: Innovation Gasification technology from Enerkem becoming

more commercial
The future possibility to use waste-CO2 and green
hydrogen to produce methanol

3: Economy A potentially economic option is co-processing Strong competition by natural gas

and CO2 -based methanol

4: Feedstock Multiple feedstock options when produced via Biomass availability constraint when
biomass gasification to syngas upscaling to conventional size
No direct land use when produced from wastes Competition for biogas that has fuel
and energy applications

5: Climate GHG reduction when used as a chemical or material Volatile organic compound (VOC)
change and building block emissions
environment

6: Citizen and Poisonous chemical

Society

7: Policy and Bio-based methanol production is driven by fuel Pro-fuel policies that support biofuels
regulation policies and can increase production of bio-based are hindering bio methanol use for
methanol chemicals and materials
Principles or circular economy and Circular Economy
Action Plan drive the utilization of wastes for
chemicals and materials

Introduction

Methanol is a liquid chemical with the formula CH3OH (often abbreviated MeOH). It is one
of the simplest alcohols and shares similar characteristics with the slightly larger molecule
Ethanol (C2H5OH). Methanol is colourless, volatile, flammable, and – contrary to ethanol -
poisonous. It is one of the largest volume chemicals in the world (world demand 75 million
metric tons in 2015 969 and serves as a building block for various other chemicals, e.g.
formaldehyde, acetic acid, olefins, MTBE and DME. Bio-based methanol is a drop-in
chemical which means that it is identical to fossil-based methanol. Bio-based methanol can
also be utilised as biofuel.

Methanol is produced from bio-based syngas (bio-syngas), which can be produced by

gasification of various biomass sources, such as: lignocellulosic crops (e.g. energy crops
like miscanthus, switchgrass and short rotation coppice, such as willow and poplar), wood,
forestry residues, agricultural residues (such as straw), as well as municipal solid waste
(MSW), black liquor, wood waste and manure. Methanol can be manufactured at widely

969
Methanol Institute. METHANOL PRICE AND SUPPLY/DEMAND. Methanol Institute webpage.
https://www.methanol.org/methanol-price-supply-demand/ . Published 2020. Accessed October 13, 2020

381
varying scales, ranging from small-scale units, producing a few hundred gallons or litres
per day, to very large plants making 1.6 million gallons/6 million litres each day 970.

The first commercial scale plants have been built based on the MSW gasification by
Enerkem. One is situated in Edmonton, Canada. Other projects are underway to produce
methanol from MSW, for example in the Netherlands, Spain, and China. In the Netherlands,
Enerkem is involved building a plant with a capacity of 220 kta methanol. The plant will
utilize 360 kta of residual non-recyclable waste 971. The proprietary thermochemical
process of Enerkem includes feedstock preparation, gasification, syngas cleaning and
conditioning and catalytic conversion to produce methanol and ethanol. Methanol produced
by Enerkem is directly used in adhesives and solvents, polyester fabrics, and drinks bottles.
It is further processed to create ethanol, acrylic acid, n-Propanol, n-Butanol, olefins and
acetic anhydride; chemicals that are used to make thousands of industrial and consumer
products.

Methanol can also be produced from biogas which is upgraded to biomethane and then
reformed to produce biosyngas. An example of how this could be done is BioMCN, though
they use gas from the natural gas grid.

BioMCN formerly produced biomethanol from glycerol in the Netherlands. In 2015, BioMCN
was acquired by OCI N.V. and continued producing renewable methanol from biogas with
a capacity about 60,000 metric tonnes per year. The biogas must be cleaned to obtain a
gas with high methane content which is then supplied to the natural gas grid. BioMCN uses
gas from the grid and converts it to methanol. They purchase green gas certificates and
the methanol produced is on a mass balance base certified as bio-methanol. This methanol
is primarily sold as a biofuel in the European transportation sector.

Alternatively, methanol is commercially produced as a side-stream from Kraft pulp mills

by separating and purifying methanol from the waste gas (steam stripper off-gas), which
can contain up to 70% methanol. This gas is conventionally incinerated. Alpac (Alberta-
Pacific Forest Industries Inc.) was the first company to valorise this waste gas to attain
methanol as a by-product. They produce 4,000 metric tonnes of methanol per year. They
use a portion of the methanol to make a pulp whitening agent required to produce pulp
and sell any surplus commercially.

Business drivers and barriers

One of the main drivers for methanol production is that it is a versatile chemical building
block as well as a fuel. It is also used as a solvent in many chemical applications. As
mentioned before, methanol is one of the largest volume chemicals in the world and the
market for methanol is growing. According to Methanol Institute 848, methanol is expected
to register a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of around 5% during 2015 - 2020.
This concerns all methanol produced, not only bio-methanol. The 3 main products
responsible for the methanol demand are MTO, formaldehyde and alternative fuels, such
as gasoline blending and combustion, biodiesel and DME. Methanol demand is increasing
due to the increase of alternative fuels. With respect to other products from methanol,
MTO and formaldehyde dominated the market and are expected to grow during the forecast
period, owing to the increasing application in the construction, automotive, and personal
care industry. The key regional methanol markets are in United States Gulf Coast,
Rotterdam, and Coastal China.

In case of bio-methanol the fact that it is a drop-in has benefits. Any application that
switches from fossil methanol to bio-methanol does not need modifications but can utilize
the molecule directly. This is another driver. Furthermore, the technologies used in bio-

970
Crnomarkovic M, Panchaksharam Y, Spekreijse J, Vom Berg C, Puente A, Chinthapalli R. Road to Bio Business
Cases: Case Studies on Potentially Attractive Opportunities for Bio-Based Chemicals in Europe Consortium.; 2018
971
Nieuwhof M. Waste-to-Chemicals, Rotterdam – Implementing the Circular Economy. Powerpoint presentation.
https://tu-freiberg.de/sites/default/files/media/institut-fuer-energieverfahrenstechnik-
143/EVT/Schulungen/2019_bht_06_nieuwhof.pdf. Published 2019. Accessed October 20, 2020

382
methanol production are relatively well-known and developed as they are comparable with
coal gasification technologies.

A barrier for bio-methanol is that it is, as for many drop-ins, not cost competitive with
today’s fossil alternatives. Enerkem’s process that utilizes wastes is reported to be an
exception. The Road2Bio-project (finished in 2019) estimated that bio-methanol
production costs from wood is ranging between 160 – 940 EUR/ton. For fossil methanol
the costs range 75-250 EUR/ton from natural gas and 150 – 300 EUR/ton for coal. This
data is based on estimations from 2017 972. The fossil methanol price in August 2020 was
approximately 230 EUR/ton (275 USD/metric ton, Europe MMSA Contract FOB Rotterdam
T2) indicating that it is still on the lower side compared to the estimated bio-methanol
production costs. Unfortunately, the development of bio-methanol has mainly been driven
for fuel applications due to policy support. This is a barrier for bio-methanol production and
market uptake for chemicals and materials.

Innovation drivers and barriers

Gasification technology developed by Enerkem is becoming more widely applied. Multiple

projects are underway to build more units globally. This will be a driver to increase bio-
based methanol production from wastes, since more plants means technology
development, and lower costs. In addition, the possibility to utilize waste CO2 e.g. from
pulp and paper, and to combine it with green hydrogen from electrolysis opens other
possibilities to produce renewable methanol 973.

Economic drivers and barriers

As bio-based methanol production is costly, a potentially economic option is to mix

renewable and fossil feedstocks (co-processing), e.g. like in BioMCN production. This can
gradually make methanol production environmentally friendly and increase the expertise
in biomass-based methanol production. Bio-methanol produced from biogas is considered
to be also the lowest cost route.

The economic barrier for bio-based methanol production is a strong competition of fossil
sourced methanol. Natural gas-based methanol and CO2-based methanol are, in most
cases, currently offering more economically viable production routes.

Feedstock drivers and barriers

Methanol production via biomass gasification is an attractive option since the technology
is already quite developed and can utilize many feedstocks, including non-food feedstocks
and wastes. This is a driver in this category. Furthermore, there is no land use impact when
readily available and abundant wastes and residues are used as feedstock. It is claimed
that the diversion of this waste to gasification resulted in 2.5 times the reduction in GHG
emissions compared to a normal waste management system.

Larger plants - similar to those used for natural gas-based methanol - might not be possible
due to biomass availability and transport constraint. The amount of biomass needed for
these types of installations is high and its sourcing is restricted by locally available biomass
and available logistics. Efficient and sustainable import from abroad and brow-field
conversion in a port could be an option to overcome this. Furthermore, competition for
biogas is another barrier. Biogas is upgraded to methane and is supported by policies when
used in transportation. In addition, it is used for heating when supplied via the natural gas
grid.

972
Vom Berg C. Roadmap for the Chemical Industry in Europe towards a Bioeconomy - Deliverable 2.1.; 2018
973
Jannasch A-K. Pulp and paper industry can produce large quantities of green fuels through electro-fuel processes.
2019. https://www.ri.se/en/press/pulp-and-paper-industry-can-produce-large-quantities-green-fuels-through-
electro-fuel

383
Climate change and environment

Using wastes to produce bio-methanol results in significant GHG emission reduction

compared to fossil-based methanol (estimated as 40% compared with natural gas, without
taking into account avoided emissions from the diversion of waste from landfilling or
incineration).

A possible barrier for methanol uptake is the concern of volatile organic compounds (VOC)
emissions. For example, formaldehyde is a methanol derivative and there is interest in the
chemical industry to replace formaldehyde in applications were emissions occur. This is
also driven by regulation, for example concerning work-place safety. Since bio methanol
is a drop-in bio-based chemical, it suffers the same drawbacks as normal methanol.

Citizen and Society drivers and barriers

A possible barrier in this category is that methanol is a poisonous chemical. However, as it

is used mainly as a building block in chemical industry, it will not come into contact directly
with citizens. However, extra measures are required in facilities handling methanol.

Policy and regulation drivers and barriers

Bio-based methanol production is currently driven by biofuel policies. This is a driver for
bio-methanol in general. The principles of the circular economy are favouring utilization of
wastes as feedstock for value added products. In the framework of the Circular Economy
Action Plan a Sustainable Products Policy legal framework is being developed that will make
use of a Products’ Environmental Footprint. This can drive the use of methanol for
chemicals and materials as well.

As a barrier, the pro-fuel policies are hindering methanol use for chemicals and materials,
since fuel applications are more encouraged When it is more beneficial to produce fuels
than chemicals or materials, the industry will not develop to enable this.

384
Specific drivers for, and barriers to, Lignin-based resins market uptake

Table 65. Summary table of specific drivers for, and barriers to lignin-based resins market uptake.

Category Drivers Barriers

1: Business Large market opportunities Needs modification to be used 100%
Reduces cost for end-user in some cases Markets are dominated by large pulp
when lignin is used as such and paper companies
Can be used directly to substitute fossil raw Cost of raw material is not known well-
materials for up to 50%, however, excluding enough
phenolic resins
2: Innovation diffusion (B2B collaboration) Lignin qualities vary
Innovation Process optimization Technical performance as such lack in
In foam applications excellent flame comparison to other resins
retardance IP can be an issue with business
Milder cross-linking temperatures and development
reduced use of solvents Covid-19 will delay new innovations
From FPBO fractionation also a resin for and product reach to the markets
moulding compounds
In some cases, improved properties in
application
3: Economy Lignin based resins have small
markets and they are not expected to
result in significant economic
developments, like offering
employment in the near future
Approval procedures (e.g. REACH) are
expensive and time consuming which
can prevent SMEs for entering the
markets without financial support
4: Feedstock Available in all lignocellulosic biomass and Security of supply
also in waste sources which is an important Available quantities and type-ranges
driver for product developers not known well enough
No agricultural land needed
Potential increased by 2G Biorefinery
Lignin from fast pyrolysis
5: Climate Prevents the use of large amount of fossil- Environmental impacts are not known
change and based solvents well enough (LCAs needed)
environment GHG savings Unsustainable forestry
Raw material of natural origin ->
biodegradability of the end-product possible
6: Citizen Health risks of formaldehyde and phenolic
and Society resins offer a marketing benefit when part of
the fossil-based is substituted with lignin
Low toxicity of lignin itself, however it may
change after it is modified for the application
Demand for bio-based products
7: Policy and Policy drivers for lignocellulosic biorefinery Approval procedures (e.g. REACH) are
regulation will increase the availability of lignin expensive and time consuming
Policy/innovation funds for material
development from 2nd Generation biomass
supplies will boost lignin availability
Policies to support 2nd Generation plants to
use sustainable energy if lignin is valorised to
materials.
REACH drivers for usage of chemicals that
are green and non-harmful

Introduction

Resins are soft solid or highly viscous materials, usually containing prepolymers with
reactive groups. It is a wide group of synthetics that are used in composites, binders (for
plate materials), adhesives, inks, paints, and coatings. Bio-based resins can be “drop-in”

385
solutions that can replace the fossil counterparts, such as epoxy, acrylic and unsaturated
polyester resins. New building blocks from bio-based sources are epoxidized vegetable oils
for epoxy resins, lignin derived phenols for formaldehyde resins or polyols from sugars for
polyurethane resins 974, 975 .

There are many types of bio-based resins in development-phase and on the market.
However, often the bio-based resin replaces only part of the fossil resin in the end product.
To our knowledge, a product with 100% bio-based resin has not yet entered the market.
We have decided to focus this review of specific drivers and barriers to lignin-based resins.
Lignin is a material abundantly available mainly from the pulp and paper industry, where
it is often considered a waste. It is presented as the most challenging biomass component
to utilize in value-added products due to its structure and the way it has been obtained.
There are emerging markets for lignin-based resins, especially as a replacement for
phenol-formaldehyde resins and as a resin for polyurethane 976, 977. UPM-Biofore has
marketed resins with a bio-based content of up to two thirds while one third remains fossil-
sourced, and they aim at resins that can be made fully lignin-based 851, 978. The drivers for
and barriers to increased market penetration of lignin-based resins are summarized in the
table and further explained below.

Business drivers and barriers

Lignin-based resins can be used to partially replace the fossil resins in their applications,
such as phenolic resins or polyurethane resins in polyurethane-based foams. Phenolic
resins are used in coatings, composites, adhesives, and in moulded parts 979. The phenol
used in the fossil-based resins is obtained from petroleum-derived materials. Lignin-based
phenolic resins are being used in wood-based panels850, and in wood-based fibre laminates
980
.

Polyurethanes are produced by reacting isocyanate resins with a polyol. The resin structure
used in polyurethane varies depending on its application. One of the isocyanates used is
fossil-based toluene-tri-isocyanate, which has an aromatic ring structure and
functionalities. Lignin-based resins can replace toluene in polyurethane rigid foams. These
are used for insulation and structural materials for construction or transportation850.

The market size of bio-based resins is not known, which makes it difficult to estimate their
volumes used. However, some indication for current fossil markets can be derived. Phenolic
resins are being produced in quantities of 6 million tonnes annually and their price ranges
from 990 EUR-ton - 2070 €/tonne depending on the quality and application of the resin851.
In some cases, it is possible to replace 50% of the resins used with lignin before the
properties suffer significantly 850. Application to phenolic resins will be suitable with
substitution of phenol with 10-30% of lignin 981, 982. Based on the market size and the price

974
Wageningen University and Research. Bio-based resins. https://www.wur.nl/en/show/Biobased-resins.htm .
Accessed July 15, 2020
975
Thomasnet. Types of Resins and Their Uses. https://www.thomasnet.com/articles/plastics-rubber/types-of-resins/ .
Accessed July 22, 2020
976
Lettner M, Hesser F, Hedeler B, Schwarzbauer P, Stern T. Barriers and incentives for the use of lignin-based resins:
Results of a comparative importance performance analysis. J Clean Prod. 2020;256:120520.
doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2020.120520
977
Paola Fabbri, Davide Viaggi, Fabrizio Cavani, Lorenzo Bertin MM, Erika Carnevale, Juliana Velasquez Ochoa, Gonzalo
Agustin Martinez, Esposti Micaela Degli Piret, Kukk Fischer, Sven Wydra Schwarz, Alexander FM-W. Top Emerging
Bio-Based Products, Their Properties and Industrial Applications.; 2018
978
UPM-Biofore. Lignin is here to stay. UPM News & Stories. https://www.upm.com/news-and-
stories/articles/2019/11/lignin-is-here-to-stay/ . Published 2019. Accessed July 21, 2020
979
Phenolic resins (phenoplasts). In: Polymer Database. https://polymerdatabase.com/polymer classes/Phenolic
type.html
980
Hildebrandt J, Budzinski M, Nitzsche R, et al. Assessing the technical and environmental performance of wood-
based fibre laminates with lignin based phenolic resin systems. Resour Conserv Recycl. 2019;141:455-464.
doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.resconrec.2018.10.029
981
Expert Opinion. Interview with an industry expert in the framework of this project.
982
Melike Bayram. Resins and moulding compound from pyrolytic lignin. 2020. http://pyrowebinar.pyroknown.eu/

386
of (fossil based) resins, substituting 30% of the total resins would be worth approximately
1.8 billion – 3.7 billion. UPM-Biofore estimates that 1 Mtonne of phenolic resins alone can
be substituted by lignin852. Lignin is used mainly in pulp and paper to create energy and
the price of lignin as energy source is 63-135 €/tonne 983. The possibility of achieving a
higher profit as a material is acting a push for the companies to develop novel materials.

There are 7 commercial producers of lignin globally. Kraft lignin, which is the major type
of lignin from pulp and paper is being produced at 130 million tonnes annually (2016); out
of this only 2% is being used in products, like binders857. This presents a huge potential
and the current sellers of lignin-based resins, Borregaard, UPM-Biofore and Stora Enso,
each claim that using lignin based resins provides cost-reductions for the user 984, 985. How
the savings are achieved, or what the level of the cost reductions is, is not listed in detail
though.

Considering PU foams, their global estimated market (2020) is 28.6 Mtonne annually 986.
Lignin-based resins have application in the rigid PU foams that comprise approximately
30% of the PU market (thus 9.5 Mtonne) 850. It is possible to substitute 10-30% of the
foam with lignin-based material. Therefore, the possible volumes that could be supplied
are approximately 3.2 Mtonne annually. Price of PU foam is 1760 €/tonne (Alibaba, PU
foam market price, read 20th July), which is worth of 5.6 billion euros.

As summary the drivers for lignin-based resins are large market opportunities in different
applications. In some applications, reduced costs for the end-user and substitution of up
to 50% of fossil raw material potentially exist. This is mainly in plywood where lignin is
used a glue material.

The barriers are the fact that lignin cannot be used as such, and either not at 100% to
replace the fossil-based resins. It needs modification, which increases the costs of the
material and as consequence decreases its competitiveness with conventionally used
materials with consolidated markets. Furthermore, lignin markets are dominated by large
pulp and paper companies, which can offer the material at low price and high volumes.
Furthermore, the cost of lignin as raw material is not known well enough, which can be an
issue when planning business operations. It can be a challenge for small companies to
enter the markets with these uncertainties.

Innovation drivers and barriers

Lignin’s competitiveness is increased by business to business collaboration. So called

innovation diffusion, that enables the innovation to answer market demands directly, has
been identified as one of the main drivers for lignin-based resins market uptake.
Lignin cannot be used as a drop-in solution for resins. They need to be modified in order
to use them. Lignin-based resins are less reactive than fossil-based resins, therefore,
modification of the material is needed to obtain compatible performance compared to
fossil-based materials. Development of lignin-based phenolic resins have already reached
a status were 100% of the resin was replaced by this bio-based material as wood adhesive
987
. This material enables lower curing temperatures compared to conventional materials
and replaced the use of toxic solvents in the material. Insulation materials, such as foams,
need to have certain flame retardance properties and in this application lignin-based foams

983
Bruijnincx P, Weckhuysen B, Gruter G-J, Westenbroek A, Engelen-Smeets E. Lignin Valorisation - The Importance of
a Full Value Chain Approach.; 2016
984
Borregaard. Sustainable lignin products. https://lignotech.com/Industrial-Applications/Resin-extension . Published
2020. Accessed July 15, 2020
985
StoraEnso. Developing a lignin-based resin for plywood. News.
https://www.storaenso.com/en/newsroom/news/2020/6/developing-a-lignin-based-resin-for-plywood. Published
2020. Accessed July 20, 2020
986
Hicks D, Austin A. A review of the global PU industry in 2016 and outlook for 2017. PU Mag Gupta Verlag. 2017;Vol
14
987
Jedrzejczyk M, Bernaerts K. Formaldehyde-free, ligninbased resins development for wood adhesives application. In:
InSciTe Annual Meeting 2018. ; 2018

387
have shown better performance than conventional materials850. Furthermore, replacing
phenolic resins (10%) with fast pyrolysis bio-oil (FPBO) extracted lignin-based in insulation
foams resulted in better performance than the market product856. Improved properties are
an important driver for lignin application in foams. In addition, FPBO lignin can also be
used as resin for moulding compounds with excellent mechanical properties. The dark
colour of FBPO lignin also reduces the use of dyes as some moulding compounds have a
desired dark colour856. Further research and development can enable the usage of FPBO
lignin also in coatings and paints. Using lignin-based resins can also result in milder cross-
linking temperatures and reduced use of solvents in wood adhesive applications 861. Several
companies, such as UPM, Stora Enso, Arpa Industriale, are developing their commercial
lignin-based resins portfolio to match the technical qualities required. UPM and Stora Enso
are currently focused on application regarding plywood852,859 and Arpa Industriale are
focusing on high-pressure laminates 988.

The barriers that lignin-based resins face in this category is that their quality varies
depending on the process that produced it, but as well the structure of lignin itself is a
challenge for some applications. Lignin’s unique chemical reactivity, the presence of
various organic and inorganic impurities and a non-uniform structure makes the usage of
it as such a challenge 989. The current technical challenges (solubility, viscosity) prevent
reaching higher substitution levels. Technical properties lack in comparison to other resins
and multiple process steps are required to make lignin-based resins fully compatible with
the end-product. Process optimization and cost-effective valorisation methods are
therefore a key to bring more of these materials to the markets850. Furthermore,
intellectual property (IP) rights can also cause barriers for development of new lignin-based
materials. Based on expert interview in this project, Covid-19 pandemic will slow down
innovations and collaborations with stakeholders and delay new products to the markets.
Economic drivers and barriers
Lignin based resins are still a small market and will be a niche product in the near future855.
Therefore, in terms of economic development lignin-based resins will not offer large
economic opportunities, like job creation. Another barrier in this category is that
development of new materials from lignin, like modification to create a functional resin,
requires REACH registration. It is often not clear enough that this is needed855, and
furthermore the registration requires resources and time. It can be a barrier for SMEs to
enter the business without financial support to cover the costs of the registrations.
Feedstock drivers and barriers
The feedstock drivers come mainly from the fact that lignin is a highly abundant material.
Lignin makes up about 20-30% of plants and trees. Considering that multiple bio-based
products are competing with agricultural land usage, lignin from forest industry has no
issues with that. Furthermore, it is available also from waste sources, which is one of the
required properties of brand owners using lignin-based resins in their products 855. The
most abundant type of lignin is Kraft lignin from pulp and paper mills, however, 2nd
generation biorefineries are expected to increase this availability even more857.
Development of fast pyrolysis oil fractionation potentially will further enable an additional
source for lignin that possibly can solve the issue with quality variation.
The main barrier is security of supply, concerning both availability and quality. It is not
known exactly how much lignin is available for materials production, and within the
available materials the type and quality ranges vary.

988
Fenix for interiors. FENIX NTM BLOOM | BEYOND THE SURFACE. https://www.fenixforinteriors.com/de/news/fenix-
ntm-bloom-beyond-surface . Accessed November 5, 2020
989
Bajwa DS, Pourhashem G, Ullah AH, Bajwa SG. A concise review of current lignin production, applications, products
and their environmental impact. Ind Crops Prod. 2019;139:111526.
doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.indcrop.2019.111526

388
Climate change and environmental drivers and barriers
Usage of lignin-based resins, e.g. as replacing phenolic resins, helps to cut down the
environmental impact of the product. However, one should be aware that in phenolic
resins, only the phenol is substituted. Therefore, Green House Gas (GHG) reductions can
be achieved, but only to a certain extent. E.g., substituting 10% of phenol in the resin,
enables the bio-based content of 5% in the resin as phenol requires curing agent as well.
Furthermore, using 100% bio-based raw materials like lignin resins would enable
composting of the end-products like wood-based panels 990.

The exact environmental benefits of replacing fossil with lignin resins is not known and that
should be thoroughly estimated by means of e.g. Life Cycle Analysis. This knowledge would
give a better understanding for users of these materials about the environmental benefits.
It is estimated that 1 tonne of lignin substituted in phenolic resins would prevent generation
of 1 tonne of CO2. The source does not say what is included in this estimation, thus, further
claims are not possible with this figure. This is a barrier as clear knowledge of the
environmental impacts, with standardized methods, would help to provide proper
understanding of the benefits of these materials.

Lignin is mostly available from side streams of pulp and paper. Many directives for
sustainable forestry exist, but there are still countries were these policies are not followed
and usage of wood is unsustainable. This needs to be considered when using lignocellulosic
material for bio-based products.
Citizen and Society drivers and barriers

Health risk associated with the use of formaldehyde and phenolic resins act as drivers in
the industry to replace these materials with non-toxic ones. Lignin has a low toxicity thus
it answers to the demand and helps to provide better image for the products. The low
toxicity of lignin, however, is only known when the material is used as such. Once the
properties are modified, this might change as well. Another driver for lignin-based resins
is that there is an incentive from the application industry and brand owners to provide
more environmentally friendly, sustainable, biodegradable and recyclable products855.

Policy and regulation drivers and barriers

Lignin availability potentially will be increased by policies that support 2nd generation
biorefineries development. Subsidies that can enhance the competitiveness of material
development from these biorefineries can further improve this. Furthermore, lignin is used
as biofuel for energy recovery in these facilities and it is crucial to ensure that these
facilities can maintain using this energy from biomass or any other RES, even if a solution
for lignin utilization in larger scale is developed. In addition to these drivers, REACH is
acting as a driver to replace materials of high concern with less harmful nature and comply
with principles of green chemistry.

990
Ang AF, Ashaari Z, Lee SH, Md Tahir P, Halis R. Lignin-based copolymer adhesives for composite wood panels – A
review. Int J Adhes Adhes. 2019;95:102408. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijadhadh.2019.102408

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Annex IV - WP 4 RoadToBio Top 120 chemicals uses for database

Chemical Classification

Acetaldehyde drop-in commodity

Acetic acid smart drop-in
Acetic anhydride smart drop-in
Poly(vinyl chloride) - PVC drop-in commodity
Acetone drop-in commodity
Alkanes (iso-) drop-in commodity
Alkyl polyglucosides (APG) dedicated chemical
Azelaic acid (aka nonanedioic acid) dedicated chemical
Bio-'Naphtha' drop-in commodity
Butadiene drop-in commodity
Butanediol (1,2-) smart drop-in
Butanediol (2,3-) smart drop-in
Butanol (iso-) drop-in commodity
Butanol (n-) drop-in commodity
Sorbitan dedicated chemical
Capric acid (aka decanoic acid) dedicated chemical
Poly(tetrahydrofuran) - PTHF (aka PTMEG) smart drop-in
Caproic acid (aka hexanoic acid) dedicated chemical
Caprylic acid (aka octanoic acid) dedicated chemical
Carboxymethyl cellulose dedicated chemical
Cellulose dedicated chemical
Phenol formaldehyde resin smart drop-in
Cetylic alcohol dedicated chemical
Chitin/Chitosan dedicated chemical
Citric acid dedicated chemical
Dimethyl isosorbide dedicated chemical
Docosahexaenoic acid dedicated chemical
Epichlorohydrin smart drop-in
Epoxy resins smart drop-in
Esterquats (group dedicated chemical
Ethanol smart drop-in
Ethyl acetate drop-in commodity
Ethyl lactate dedicated chemical
Ethyl tert-butyl ether (ETBE) drop-in commodity
Butene (iso-) drop-in commodity
Ethylene drop-in commodity
Isoprene drop-in commodity
Farnesene dedicated chemical
Ethylene glycol drop-in commodity
Fatty Alcohols dedicated chemical
Fatty amines dedicated chemical

390
Furfural dedicated chemical
Ethylene chloride (aka vinyl chloride) drop-in commodity
Furfuryl alcohol dedicated chemical
Glucaric acid / Sodium glucarate dedicated chemical
Glycerol dedicated chemical
Heptanoic acid (aka enanthic acid) dedicated chemical
Heptanol smart drop-in
Hyaluronic acid dedicated chemical
Isosorbide dedicated chemical
Itaconic acid dedicated chemical
Lactic acid dedicated chemical
Lactide dedicated chemical
Lauric acid (aka dodecanoic acid) dedicated chemical
Butanediol (1,4-) smart drop-in
Lauryl alcohol dedicated chemical
Limonene dedicated chemical
Dodecanedioic acid dedicated chemical
Methane drop-in commodity
Methanol drop-in commodity
Methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) drop-in commodity
Octadecanedioic acid (1,18-) dedicated chemical
Octanol (2-) dedicated chemical
Oleic acid dedicated chemical
Palmitic acid (aka hexadecanoic acid) dedicated chemical
Pelargonic acid (aka nonanoic acid) dedicated chemical
Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) - PBAT smart drop-in
Poly(butylene succinate) - PBS (aka 'Bionolle') smart drop-in
Butyric acid smart drop-in
Poly(butylene terephthalate) - PBT drop-in commodity
Poly(ethylene furanoate) - PEF dedicated chemical
Poly(ethylene glycol) - PEG drop-in commodity
Poly(ethylene terephthalate) - PET drop-in commodity
Poly(ethylene) - PE drop-in commodity
Acrylic acid smart drop-in
Methyl methacrylate (MMA) smart drop-in
Poly(hydroxyalkanoate) - PHA dedicated chemical
Poly(hydroxybutyrate) - PHB smart drop-in
Poly(isosorbide) dedicated chemical
Fumaric acid smart drop-in
Poly(lactic acid) - PLA dedicated chemical
Malic acid smart drop-in
Poly(methyl methacrylate) - PMMA smart drop-in
Adipic acid smart drop-in
Poly(propiolactone) - PPL dedicated chemical

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Poly(propylene) - PP drop-in commodity
Levulinic acid dedicated chemical
Poly(trimethylene terephthalate) - PTT drop-in commodity
Poly(urethane) - PUR drop-in commodity
Hydroxypropionic acid (3-) dedicated chemical
Propane drop-in commodity
Propanediol (1,3-) smart drop-in
Acrylonitrile drop-in commodity
Propylene drop-in commodity
Propylene glycol (aka 1,2-propanediol) drop-in commodity
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) smart drop-in
Hydroxymethylfurfural (5-) (HMF) dedicated chemical
Furandicarboxylic acid (2,5-) (FDCA) dedicated chemical
Furan dedicated chemical
Tetrahydrofuran (methyl-) smart drop-in
Rayon dedicated chemical
Ricinoleic acid (aka 12-Hydroxyoctadec-9-enoic acid) dedicated chemical
Dimethyl ether (DME) drop-in commodity
Sebacic acid (aka decanedioic acid) dedicated chemical
Sophorolipids dedicated chemical
Ethylene oxide drop-in commodity
Propylene oxide drop-in commodity
Sorbitol dedicated chemical
Squalene dedicated chemical
Starch dedicated chemical
Stearic acid (aka octadecanoic acid) dedicated chemical
Guayule dedicated chemical
Glycolipids dedicated chemical
Succinic acid smart drop-in
Glycerol carbonate dedicated chemical
Terpenes dedicated chemical
Turpentine (mixture --> pinene) dedicated chemical
Undecanoic acid (aka undecylic acid) dedicated chemical
Alkyl polypentosides (C5 surfactants) dedicated chemical
Xylene (para-) drop-in commodity

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Annex V - WP 4 List of keywords for material biorefineries

1 Absorbents
2 accessories
3 active
4 Actives
5 additive
6 adhesive
7 adsorbent
8 agent
9 alcohol
10 aroma
11 aromatherapy
12 automotive products
13 biodegradable
14 blend
15 cable
16 care product
17 cellulose
18 cellulosic material
19 Chemical intermediates
20 cleaner
21 cleaners
22 cleaning products
23 Coating
24 component
25 Composite
26 compound
27 compounding
28 container
29 cosmetics
30 de-icer
31 detergent
32 dye
33 elastomer
34 emollient
35 emulsion
36 enzyme
37 equipment
38 extract
39 fabric
40 feedstock
41 fertilizer
42 Fibre
43 fill and batt
44 film
45 filter
46 floor
47 floor panel
48 foam
49 gel
50 grease
51 herbiside
52 ink
53 Insulation
54 Insulator
55 intermediate
56 lining
57 material

393
58 medical
59 oil
60 packaging
61 Paint
62 panel
63 paper
64 personal care ingredient
65 personal hygiene products
66 pharmaceutical
67 plastisizer
68 polymer
69 protection
70 relief
71 repellent
72 resin
73 roofing
74 roving
75 Rovings, yarns
76 sanitary product
77 sealant
78 soap
79 solvent
80 stain
81 surfactant
82 Textile
83 Thermoplastic
84 tires
85 tissue
86 toiletry
87 treatment
88 Treatment products
89 varnish
90 Vitamin
91 wax
92 wire
93 yarn

394
Getting in touch with the EU
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This study presents scenarios on how demand and supply for bio-
based chemicals and materials could grow to 2030, and provides
roadmaps with actions required to increase the deployment of
chemical and material driven biorefineries in the EU. The study
also presents the key elements of the analysis which have
supported the preparation of the scenarios and roadmaps. This
includes a biorefinery classification system, a database of
operational or announced biorefineries (developed in collaboration
with the Joint Research Centre) for the EU and 10 non-EU
countries, a detailed opportunities and barriers analysis and a
market outlook to 2030 with a focus on eleven biorefinery
pathways. The study was developed by E4tech (lead), BTG,
Wageningen Research, FNR and ICONS with the support of over
100 stakeholders from the bio-based industry, the chemicals and
materials industries, academia & research institutions, the
investment community and policy makers through active
participation in stakeholder workshops, meetings and interviews.

Studies and reports