Research into sustainable production methods for butadiene
Butadiene, a key monomer in polymer production and the manufacture of car tires, is currently primarily derived from petroleum. The Fraunhofer UMSICHT team, in their Power2C4 project, is searching for more sustainable alternatives that reduce environmental impact and lower the carbon footprint.
The researchers focused on a catalytic process that uses renewable electricity to convert ethanol to butadiene. Using a novel method, they identified and synthesized a catalyst system based on a synthetic saponin. This innovative approach has the potential to accelerate the transition to more environmentally friendly butadiene production.
Source: NMWP.NRW; Fraunhofer UMSICHT
