With the AFTER-BIOCHEM project coordinated by AFYREN company and dedicated to the construction of a first of a kind biorefinery to produce acids and esters from pulp biowastes.

The AFTER-BIOCHEM project aims to create multiple new value chains, from non-food biomass feedstock to multiple end-products, by combining anaerobic batch fermentation and esterification. In the fermentation process robust mixes of naturally occurring micro-organisms will produce organic acids such as propionic, butyric, isobutyric, valeric, isovaleric and caproic acids, with a mineral fertilizer sidestream. The feedstock of the fermentation process may be sugar production by products such as beet pulp and molasses, to increase the sustainability of sugar beet, a key European crop. The products will represent valuable renewable, bio-based, domestically-sourced alternatives to petrochemical products in numerous high-value applications such as flavorings and fragrances, hygiene products, pharmaceuticals, antimicrobials and polymers. The mineral fertilizer sidestream will contribute to the EU Action plan for the Circular Economy.

The objective from 2020 to 2022 will be to commission the flagship biorefinery in France, which will then run at full capacity and integrate esterification from 2022 to 2024. AFTER-BIOCHEM seeks a €20 million grant while delivering €139.3 million additional investment, €13.0 million in-kind contribution and € 250 k in-cash contribution.