Chinese scientists have successfully developed a method to produce bio-ethylene glycol (EG) from straw sugars, which could potentially replace petroleum and coal as raw materials. EG is a crucial chemical material with a global annual consumption of over 30 million tons, used in various products such as clothing fibers and plastic products. Previously, EG was mainly produced using petroleum or coal, resulting in high carbon dioxide emissions and energy consumption. The new technology, pioneered by the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, uses biomass as a raw material and can produce EG with a purity of 99.9%. While the cost of bio-EG is higher than traditional coal-based production, it has higher purity and quality. The technology has been tested at a 1,000-ton level, which can ensure mass production and lay the groundwork for 10,000-ton industrial production. Experts hail the breakthrough as a major step towards green and sustainable development, and it could help achieve China’s dual carbon goals.
Source: https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202410/19/WS6713430aa310f1265a1c8797.html
