Gevo secures U.S. patent for groundbreaking ethanol-to-olefin process

In Colorado, Gevo announced on September 16, 2024, that it has received a U.S. patent for its ethanol-to-olefin process, a significant advancement in bio-based chemical and fuel production. The ETO process, which uses proprietary catalysts to convert ethanol into valuable three- and four-carbon olefins like propylene, promises to lower both capital and operating costs by simplifying production. This technology is critical for producing chemicals, plastics, and sustainable aviation fuel.

“We’ve been pursuing simplified alcohol to olefin technology since 2007, understanding that low cost, robust processes to make the right olefins is the critical step to make jet fuel, gasoline, and plastics. It’s our mission to make the transition practical from fossil-based to renewable fuels and chemicals,” says Dr. Pat Gruber, CEO of Gevo.

The patent strengthens Gevo’s intellectual property portfolio and supports its strategy to transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. The ETO process offers improved energy efficiency and reduced complexity, making it more viable for large-scale applications. Gevo has partnered with LG Chem to commercialize the technology for chemical production and plans to scale it further to meet growing market demand for bio-based alternatives.