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Country of origin: United States

Summary

A large US company is looking for proposals for development of enabling technologies for new, high value-added applications of kraft lignin. They are interested in licensing, contract research, joint development and supplier agreement.

Full description

The company, with invoicing of US$ 4.5 billion and 85 years experience in the market, produces pulp and paper from Eucalyptus wood, generating substantial quantities of lignin, a natural amorphous polymer, as a by-product. They use a small portion of the lignin as fuel to support their manufacturing process but there is substantial excess lignin available for other uses.
The company has strong growing plans for the next five years and seeks processes, systems, and new applications to develop high value use of kraft lignin.

Possible approaches might include, but are not limited to:
- Any new applications with high value that meet stated requirements and constraints
- Converting lignin into useful chemicals or materials that include, but are not limited to: carbon fiber, aromatic chemicals, polymer resins, polymer modifiers, absorbents, dispersing agents, adhesives without formaldehyde, antioxidants, and other novel applications
- Applications in medicine
- Using kraft lignin without any modification.

The following approaches are not of interest:
- Common, ordinary processes that burn lignin (unless novel)
- Processes to convert lignin into biofuels

Technical Specifications / Specific technical requirements:
The successful technology will:
- Provide high value uses for lignin
- Preferably be suitable to use kraft lignin
- From a variety of species including, but not limited to: Eucalyptus, pine, and other softwood and hardwood species
- Be compatible with sponsors kraft pulp production process.

Partner expertise sought:

Responses from small to large companies, academic researchers, other research institutes, consultants, entrepreneurs or inventors are welcome. The technology sought may either be ready for testing and transfer to commercial use or require further development.

ANTICIPATED PROJECT PHASES OR PROJECT PLAN
Phase 1  Proof of concept
Demonstrate utilization of kraft lignin in high-value product, including economic assessment and pathway to commercial application.
Phase 2  Commercial optimization
Technology optimization, pilot scale testing, and full deployment into pulp and paper manufacturing process.
CRITERIA FOR MOVING FROM PHASE 1 TO PHASE 2
Company will consider for advancement a program that makes adequate progress toward technical feasibility and commercial readiness with acceptable return on investment.

Note that this profile requires a convincing solution proposal. Please contact your local EEN to get the Response template and find more information on the specific process here: http://www.us-eu-match.com/index.cfm?action=processFlow

Listed under: Building and Construction \ Materials Technology \ Paper, Pulp, Textiles, Leather and Footwear

 

Key dates Profile created on: 29 July 2010 Closing date: 03 September 2010

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