Grant: CCI Applied Research and Development Grants

DMT Bioproducts, based in Aylmer, Ontario, is on a mission to develop eco-friendly bioprocessing technology. Their goal is to efficiently transform locally grown biomass into fuel derivatives and valuable materials, using plants that naturally capture CO2 as their carbon source. DMT is committed to ensuring that the processing they develop are as green as possible. In partnership with Lambton College, DMT plans to develop a sustainable and highly efficient furfural/levulinic acid generation pilot facility from Miscanthus. This fast-growing plant yields up to 7 times more biomass per acre than corn and thrives in challenging soil and short growing seasons, making it an excellent biofuel source. The project’s core focus is on maximizing the value of side streams from furfural production. Furfural, derived from lignocellulosic biomass, holds significant potential as a precursor to high-value products. To ensure the facility’s success, it’s crucial to fully utilize lignocellulosic biomass, specifically Miscanthus. Levulinic acid presents a compelling avenue for innovation and economic growth due to its versatile applications in various industries. Conventional furfural production mainly employs acid-catalyzed dehydration of pentoses, primarily xylose, found in biomass hydrolysates. Unfortunately, this process only utilizes 20% of the available biomass, producing side streams such as cellulose, lignin, and other co-products. These overlooked side streams contain valuable compounds that can contribute to a circular economy and enhance the overall economics of furfural production that would otherwise go to waste if the focus remained solely on furfural production. The project’s success will support DMT’s new production facility, generating $350,000 in additional annual revenue and creating 7 jobs with a 1-ton-per-day pilot plant. A 30-ton-per-day commercial plant could yield $10 million in additional annual revenue and create 25 jobs. It also introduces a new crop and commercial chemical product in Ontario, attracting chemical production and boosting the region’s competitiveness. Furfural and levulinic acid are valuable in global markets and with Canada having strong chemical industry, specifically Sarnia Lambton, this will increase the competitiveness of that industry having a stable, reliable, and local source of these base chemicals, benefiting Canadian producers and opening export opportunities.