Novamont, Genomatica form bio-based butanediol JV for Europe

In Italy and California, Novamont and Genomatica have signed a definitive agreement establishing a JV for the first industrial plant in Europe producing butanediol.  Under the agreement, Novamont is converting an existing facility in Adria, Italy to use Genomatica’s BDO process. Novamont is financing the plant conversion and will operate the plant, which is expected to have a production capacity of approximately 40 million pounds per year. Initial production is expected in 2013.

The agreement also contemplates Novamont building and operating a second BDO plant using Genomatica’s process, which is expected to use biomass sugars as the renewable feedstock.