Enzymes specialty chemical development

Broader use of stable, solid catalysts in the synthesis of high-value chemicals is important. The goal is to reduce the production cost of so-called specialty chemicals and pharmaceutical raw materials presently synthesized in batch-type processes using enzymes or alike catalysts. The successful development of stable, solid catalysts in the synthesis of stereospecific chemicals would not only serve their present market, but because of an anticipated cost reduction, may also lead to a broader use of these materials as monomers of superior polymers and various chemical products. 

Since the rapid development of the chemical industry in the 1940s, the chemical industry has morphed from a commodity chemical market into a specialty chemical market where bio-related products and processes have become increasingly important. Enzymes are now commonly used as catalysts to produce products such as proteins, sugars, and lipids as well as processing tools to enhance more traditional products, such as paper pulp. In fact,... 

Contrary to the commodity chemical business, the key to win in the specialty products market does not lie in squeezing out profits by means of economies of scale or process optimization. Rather, it lies in the ability for fast new product launches in order to capture the largest market share as soon as possible. Since superior product quality and performance is what really differentiates one specialty product from another, the product properties need to be adjusted as required by business needs. For example, the ability to manipulate functional chemicals in detergent products such as enzymes and zeolites, as well as backbone chemicals like surfactants, is often the key to success for both the detergent manufacturers and chemical suppliers [3], This trend has created an urgent need for an efficient and effective product and process development for these products. 

We embarked on a large program five years ago to demonstrate that we can use our technical innovation power, coupled with a partner s capability in engineering enzymes, to make bulk chemicals and fibers cost effectively. Our goal was to produce a specialty fiber we call Sorona (Figure 6), which incorporates the attractive properties of nylon, Dacron and Lycra, resulting in superior softness, vibrant color, UV and chlorine resistance, and stain resistance coupled with stretch and recovery. Market test development shows that consumers find this combination of functionalities very attractive. 

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