500 T/A Fermentation-Process PDO Technology

After passing the research achievement appraisal organized by
the Ministry of Education, the technology for the
1,3-propanediol (PDO) production through the fermentation
process jointly developed by Henan Tianguan Group and Tsinghua
University conducted commercial tests in a 500 t/a unit on August
2nd, 2006. An economically feasible process route has therefore
been provided for the commercialization of the PDO production
through the microbial fermentation process. It is reported that
Henan Tianguan Group is preparing to construct a 1 000 t/a PDO
production line.
    PDO is an important organic chemical raw material. It can
replace ethylene glycol and butylene glycol in the use as monomer
for the synthesis of polyester and polyurethane and as solvent,
antifreeze agent or protective agent. It can also be used to
synthesize pharmaceuticals and as intermediate for organic
synthesis. The market price of PDO is around RMB40 000 per ton
today.