Glycos Biotechnologies Inc is in the process of developing systems that will be capable of converting crude glycerine into fuels and other products. The crude glycerine is often disposed of in large quantities and is a by product from biofuel refineries.
While the good quality glycerine is used in the manufacture of soap, food, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, the waste is now going to be put to use with the assistance of micro-organisms that are being worked on by a team at Rice University. These micro-organisms are the key to the bioconversion process which is energy efficient.
Glycos aims to get around the high costs of this bioconversion by integrating the process in individual refineries operations that can go on to produce chemicals like acids and alcohols that may further be used to create insulation, food products, fabrics and even fuel.
Research is underway to enable this glycerine to be converted into ethanol, hydrogen gas, non toxic antifreeze and methane.
