Bio-based solvents are those produced from biomass sources from energy crops like corn, forest products (like wood), aquatic biomass like algae, and waste materials. These bio-based solvents are used in place of fossil resources in producing chemicals. Glycerol is a good example of a bio-based solvent. It is a viscous liquid produced from vegetable oils and can facilitate dissolution of inorganic salts, acids, bases, enzymes and many transition metals. It is the main co-product of biodiesel and it is used in chemical processes as it is a cheap, renewable, non-flammable and biocompatible liquid.
Green chemistry is a term used to describe a newer way of thinking about how chemistry and chemical engineering might be done. The concept is that the design, development and implementation of chemical products and processes can be done in such a way as to benefit the Earth by reducing waste, conserving energy, and creating eco-friendly replacements for historically hazardous substances. The goal is to replace the hazardous solvents with environmentally friendly ones.
Large renewable energy and biochemical consulting firms certainly have experts in biomaterials and biochemicals as well as the more common areas like bio and renewable fuels, biomass and biomass power, feedstocks, and biotechnologies. These larger groups will also have expertise in other things like animal health products, aquaculture, bio-fertilizers, bio-fibers, biomass to sugars, bioplastics/polymers, enzymes, food ingredients, industrial chemicals, latex, lubricants, nanocarbon/cellulose, nutraceuticals, organometallics, rubber and solvents.
Lee Enterprises Consulting is the world’s premier bioeconomy consulting group, with over 100 highly qualified experts serving in all these areas. Take a look at our experts and the services we provide. Most of our experts are also available to advise and serve as expert witnesses in bioeconomy litigation matters. For the larger projects, we specialize in putting together full service, interdisciplinary teams with one point of contact. Call us at 1+ (501) 833-8511 or email us for more information.
