Model Metnin -Lignin Refining Technology
METNIN™ is a process that is enabled by a novel enzyme that not only works but has its optimum at highly alkaline conditions where lignin becomes water-soluble. Never before it has been possible to address lignin enzymatically in such processing conditions. METNIN™ process solubilizes any kind of lignin and after enzymatic refining fractionates the material according to a very specific molecular weight. Additionally, these fractions are easily tailored to have end-user specific chemical characteristics, including, solubility, dispersity, viscosity (liquids), particle size (powders), Tg, polarity, number of various surface-active groups, pH, ash content, etc. The process – thanks to the selected alkaline conditions – utilizes widely available industrial standard membrane systems. The operations are robust and fluent and allow for recycling of water and sodium hydroxide in the process, almost eliminating the waste.
METNIN™ is an epitome of MetGen’s biotech competence: based on a new-to-the-world enzyme complemented by process technology and connected with adjacent chemical processes.
What is more, through the vast collaboration network, MetGen has already connected with more than 100 companies willing to productize the lignin in a multitude of applications. We have connected the supply of lignin with the chemical and material companies in need of high-value substitutes for oil-based chemistries. Valorizing lignin really has quite an impact on the techno-economic performance of any biorefinery.
To accelerate the productization of METNIN™, we have launched a webshop for samples.
With the full basic engineering package, MetGen is ready to license out this technology to be implemented at your biorefinery as well. Please find out more about our presentations and webinars.
We are always here for you if you have any questions. Please find your contact here.