Bio-Polyols from lignocellulosic Biomass

Polyols, representing ~31billion global market, are majorly for polyurethanes manufacturing. The majority of polyols are currently produced from petroleum feedstock. This project aims to develop an enabling technology to produce 100% bio-based polyols and bio-polyether polyols with 2-3 hydroxyl equivalent functionally from non-food biomass. The products are anticipated to meet the current market needs to mitigate customers challenges, and deliver safer and natural bio-products. The proposed research from this project will enable manufacturing process development for the proposed bio polyols and validate commercial potential of the product. Specifically, we will develop reactor and process parameters to (1) improve the yield and selectivity of bio-polyols, (2) synthesize 2-hydroxyl equivalent bio-polyols, (3) upgrade bio-polyols to bio-ether polyols (4) develop a process intensified manufacturing process with low capex and low energy demand and (5) validate the product's market fit. Products and intermediates will be analyzed using various chromatographic and spectroscopic methods. Product's key specifications will be measured using internationally accepted ASTM methods. Biodegradability will be assessed. We anticipate a significant outcome from this phase I research to move this technology towards commercialization in Phase II.