Global Bioenergies develops process to produce biobased isobutene

In France, Global Bioenergies has developed a process for converting plant resources into isobutene, one of the main building blocks of chemistry, whose derivatives are used in cosmetics, fine chemicals, commodities and fuels. A production unit is currently under construction in Pomacle to serve high value-added markets.

One of the intermediates in the isobutene synthesis pathway is of industrial interest: this 5-carbon intermediate, prenic acid, is also known as “methyl-crotonic acid”, “dimethyl-acrylic acid” and “senecic acid” (CAS 541-47-9).

Its two chemical functions (acid and vinyl) allow it to be used in a multitude of compounds that are currently derived from petroleum and used most notably in flavors, perfumes and food additives.