Verbio, a leader in the chemical industry, is making remarkable strides toward a sustainable future by transitioning from fossil to renewable raw materials. Through the ambitious development of the world’s first large-scale ethenolysis plant located in Bitterfeld, Verbio is set to commence operations by 2026, promising a significant shift in the production of renewable specialty chemicals. This cutting-edge facility will utilize rapeseed oil methyl ester, revolutionizing how essential chemicals are produced for various applications such as detergents, cleaning agents, high-performance lubricants, and plastics. This groundbreaking initiative is a crucial step forward in defossilization, aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the chemical industry and meeting stringent climate goals.
Development and Technological Innovation
Dr. Andreas Kohl, Verbio’s Head of Specialty Chemicals and Catalysts, emphasized a key milestone with the completion of the plant’s first distillation column, integral in preparing raw ester from the biodiesel plant for the ethenolysis process. Constructed on site and seamlessly welded in November 2024, this distillation column represents a significant achievement in the timeline of the plant’s construction. Alongside this, additional structures including production buildings, tank foundations, and the initial tanks are currently under construction, highlighting the rapid progress being made at the facility.
The unique technological process at the Bitterfeld plant employs certified, sustainably produced rapeseed oil, initially transformed into biodiesel and further processed into renewable specialty chemicals. This innovative approach utilizes advanced catalysts developed by XiMo, a wholly owned Verbio subsidiary. Notably, Nobel Laureate Richard Schrock, a founder of XiMo, contributed to the advancement of olefin metathesis, a vital chemical reaction in producing these specialty chemicals. This intersection of groundbreaking technology and sustainable practices sets Verbio’s ethenolysis plant apart in the industry.
Production and Applications of Bio-based Chemicals
Verbio’s pioneering ethenolysis technology facilitates the production of methyl 9-decenoate (9-DAME) and 1-decene, both of which are pivotal in creating bio-based specialty chemicals. These chemicals find extensive use in manufacturing detergents, cleaning agents, and high-performance lubricants essential for modern engines and wind turbines. Additionally, they serve as raw materials in polymer production, underscoring their broad applicability across various industries. The Bitterfeld plant’s expected annual capacity is impressive: 32,000 tonnes of 9-DAME, 17,000 tonnes of 1-decene, and an overall capacity of 60,000 tonnes of renewable chemical industry products.
Beyond these applications, Verbio aims to further diversify its product line to include specialty chemicals relevant to the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. This strategic expansion reflects the company’s commitment to innovation and adaptability in meeting diverse market needs. The substantial demand for these renewable products is evident, with Verbio already engaged in discussions with interested parties globally, positioning itself as a key supplier in the renewable chemicals market.
Impact on the Chemical Industry and Sustainability
This project is a testament to the broader trend of defossilizing the chemical industry to mitigate its environmental impact. Verbio’s state-of-the-art technologies support this transition by replacing fossil raw materials with biomass-derived molecules, demonstrating a viable pathway for the chemical sector to achieve its climate objectives. As industries increasingly seek sustainable solutions, Verbio’s efforts are aligning with the global demand for eco-friendly products, bolstering the company’s role in the green revolution.
In addition to significantly reducing the ecological footprint of chemical production, Verbio’s diversification strategy is pivotal for its long-term growth and the overarching aim of climate protection. By broadening its portfolio to encompass a variety of green products derived from renewable biomass, Verbio secures its position in markets beyond transportation fuels. This diversification strategy not only enhances the company’s resilience but also solidifies its commitment to sustainability.
To support this growth and ensure the successful transition to renewable chemical production, Verbio is actively recruiting skilled personnel, including chemists, electrical and electronic instrumentation specialists, and quality management and occupational safety professionals at its Bitterfeld site. Investing in a competent workforce is crucial for maintaining the high standards and innovative edge the company aims to uphold.
Conclusion
Verbio’s innovative ethenolysis technology enables the production of key bio-based chemicals like methyl 9-decenoate (9-DAME) and 1-decene. These compounds are crucial for creating detergents, cleaning agents, and high-performance lubricants used in modern engines and wind turbines. Furthermore, they serve as significant raw materials in polymer production, highlighting their extensive industrial use. The Bitterfeld plant showcases remarkable capacity, producing 32,000 tonnes of 9-DAME and 17,000 tonnes of 1-decene annually, with a total renewable chemical output of 60,000 tonnes.
In addition to these applications, Verbio is set to expand its product line to include specialty chemicals for the pharmaceutical and cosmetic sectors. This strategic growth underscores the company’s dedication to innovation and its ability to meet diverse market demands. The strong demand for these renewable products is evident, as Verbio is currently in global discussions with various interested parties. This positions Verbio as a key player in the renewable chemicals market, highlighting their commitment to sustainable and versatile chemical production.
