Catalysis: Unleashing the Power of Catalysis to Transform Waste into Value

Imagine a world where waste becomes a resource, a burden transformed into an opportunity. That is the power of catalysis, and it is at the heart of what Rejuvetech does. In this case study, we’ll explore how Rejuvetech’s catalytic expertise helped a food producer turn a surplus of molasses into a valuable new product, creating a sustainable solution for both business and the environment.

The Challenge: Taming a Sticky Situation

Our client was facing a mountain of molasses, a by-product of sugar production, with no cost-effective way to dispose of it. Landfills were expensive, and other options weren’t environmentally friendly. They needed a solution that would not only eliminate the waste but also create value.

The Solution: Catalysis Meets Microbubbles

As experts in catalysis, Rejuvetech saw the opportunity to transform the waste into a valuable product by using a bespoke catalyst to convert the molasses into a series of carboxylic acids, a valuable bio-based chemical used in various products. But there was a twist: we needed to incorporate carbon dioxide (CO₂) into the process as a key reactant.

The Hurdles: Keeping CO₂ in the Game

However, getting CO₂ to play its part wasn’t easy as it posed two key challenges:

1. CO₂ is an important greenhouse gas, and as a gas it likes to escape, and this makes it difficult to keep it in optimal contact with the molasses for the reaction to occur.
2. It is a gas which is naturally relatively unreactive, needing a push to keep it in the game.

Microbubbles: Tiny Champions

By using microscopic bubbles to convey the CO₂, the process was able to optimise the amount of time the CO₂ was in contact with the molasses, giving more time to react. This increased the efficiency of the reaction.

Bio-organisms: The Natural Catalysts

But CO₂ still needed that extra nudge. That’s where the catalytic power of yeast came in. This natural and sustainable catalyst provided the necessary activation energy, making the CO₂ reactive and ready to join the party.

The Outcome: A Sustainable Success Story

The waste molasses converted into a variety of commercially valuable products which eliminated waste, generated a new revenue stream, and embraced sustainability by reducing CO₂ and promoting resource efficiency.

The Rejuvetech Difference: this case study showcases the transformative power of catalysis. Rejuvetech goes beyond waste management; we help business unlock their hidden potential within their waste streams, creating value while contributing to a more sustainable future. Contact Rejuvetech today and discover how our catalytic solutions can turn your challenges into opportunities.