First 10,000-tonne-scale bio-based 1,3-butanediol plant put into operation

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According to reports from Sinochem New Network, journalists learned recently from Wanhua Chemical Group Co., Ltd. that the company has utilized its own patented technology to build and put into operation the world’s first 10,000-ton-per-year facility for producing bio-based 1,3-butanol, using non-grain biomass as raw material. 　　“The No. 1 Central Document for 2025 mentioned for the first time the development of new forms of productive capacity in agriculture; promoting the integration of industrial chains and increasing the added value of agricultural products are key aspects of this approach. Wanhua Chemical’s bio-based 1,3-butanediol production facility uses non-grain biomass as raw material, and it is manufactured through processes such as fermentation, condensation, hydrogenation, and distillation. By leveraging advanced biofermentation and green synthesis technologies, this facility extends the comprehensive utilization of agricultural products to the cosmetics industry, achieving a cycle of ‘from nature to nature’. It is able to fully meet market demands and ensure the security of the supply chain. ”A relevant official from Wanhua Chemical said. 　　1,3-Butanediol boasts excellent moisturizing and safety properties, with lower skin irritation and a refreshing feel on the skin. It can effectively reduce the stickiness of formulations, as well as decrease the need for preservatives in these formulas, making it one of the essential ingredients in cosmetics. At the same time, due to its asymmetric characteristic of having two hydroxyl groups, it also has important applications in fields such as power batteries and resin synthesis. Prior to this, the production technologies and capacity for 1,3-butanediol worldwide were largely controlled by foreign companies; China relied on imports for a long time and even faced shortages at times, which affected the development of industries that used this substance. 　　It is reported that as the world’s first 10,000-ton-scale bio-based 1,3-butanediol production facility, Wanhua Chemical’s 1,3-butanediol plant utilizes its own patented technologies. Through innovative catalysts and production processes, it significantly improves the efficiency of raw material utilization, prevents waste of resources, and reduces the generation of waste materials. This device also makes use of Wanhua Chemical’s advanced hydrogenation and separation/purification technology platforms to achieve precise removal of trace impurities, ensuring that key parameters such as the product’s odor and purity are at industry-leading levels; moreover, more than 10 related patents have been filed. Wanhua Chemical uses green energy sources such as solar and wind power in the production process of 1,3-butanediol. Compared with traditional petrochemical methods, this approach can significantly reduce carbon dioxide emissions; up to 70% less carbon dioxide can be emitted per ton of 1,3-butanediol produced. It offers a new approach for the sustainable development of the industry and helps achieve the goals related to carbon reduction. 　　A representative from Wanhua Chemical said that the company drives industry development through technological innovation; it has also developed bio-based materials such as rhamnolipids in the field of care chemicals. In the future, it will continue to expand the use of biomass materials to support the green, safe, and sustainable development of downstream industries.