Spero Energy's Sustainable Lignin-to-Fragrance Technology

Date:21-Sep-2014

Country: United States

Application

• Production of renewable fragrance ingredients from wood lignin for the flavor and fragrance industry.
• Sustainable alternative to petroleum-based chemicals in high-value fragrance products.

Description

Spero Energy has developed a single-step catalytic process to convert wood lignin into valuable chemicals for the flavor and fragrance industry, such as dihydroeugenol, which is used for its spicy, sweet aroma. This innovative method provides a more sustainable, renewable alternative to petroleum-based production. The company aims to scale up production and expand into both the fragrance and biofuel industries. Spero Energy has received grants for further development and commercialization of this technology.

 

 

Pathway Description:

The process developed by Spero Energy involves a single-step catalytic method that converts lignin, a component of wood, into valuable chemicals. Specifically, the process transforms lignin into dihydroeugenol, a key compound used in the flavor and fragrance industry. This method replaces petroleum-based production, offering a renewable and more environmentally friendly alternative. The process is designed to be efficient, cost-effective, and scalable for industrial applications.