Conagen and Sumitomo Create Renewable p-Hydroxystyrene from Biomass residue

Date:August 01, 2023

Country: Japan

Application

• Electronics, personal care, and consumer products: PHS and HS can be used to produce polymers, resins, and other chemicals.
• Pharmaceuticals and fragrances: HS can also serve as a key ingredient in synthesizing other substances.

Description

Conagen and Sumitomo Chemical have partnered to develop p-hydroxystyrene (HS) and its polymer, poly p-hydroxystyrene (PHS), using a combination of biosynthesis, chemosynthesis, and polymerization. This innovation creates 100% renewable carbon materials, reducing reliance on petroleum. The partnership aims to produce sustainable chemicals for various applications, from electronics to personal care. It marks a significant step toward carbon-neutral, sustainable material production.

Pathway Description:

The project uses a combination of biosynthesis, chemosynthesis, and polymerization to produce p-hydroxystyrene (HS) and its polymer poly p-hydroxystyrene (PHS). Biosynthesis involves using renewable biomass to create the monomer HS. Chemosynthesis is used to further modify and synthesize the chemicals. Finally, polymerization is employed to produce PHS from HS, resulting in a 100% renewable carbon material.