Zeon/Visolis to construct bio-isoprene/SAF facility

Japan’s Zeon Corporation and Visolis Inc have announced that following the successful completion of a joint feasibility study, the companies are initiating preparatory steps toward construction of a new production facility. The proposed facility, for which multiple sites are being evaluated, is intended to support commercial scale manufacturing of bio based isoprene and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) using Visolis’ proprietary fermentation and downstream processing technology.

This effort builds on the longstanding collaboration between Zeon and Visolis to develop and scale next generation, bio based materials. The feasibility study confirmed the competitive advantage of Visolis’ platform for producing high purity isoprene and SAF at commercial scale and further solidified Zeon and Visolis intent to collaborate closely on scale up of the technology for both isoprene and SAF production.

In light of these promising results, Zeon says it is exploring next phase planning activities, including detailed engineering, site assessment, permitting, and stakeholder engagement.

“Visolis has proven to be a valuable innovation partner, and we are excited to take this important next step together,” said Tetsuya Toyoshima, President/CEO of Zeon. “Bio based isoprene and SAF are key to our long term vision for sustainable growth, and this project reflects our commitment to delivering impactful technologies in collaboration with leading startups.” The initiative is aligned with Zeon’s broader sustainability objectives and decarbonization strategy, while advancing Visolis’ mission to commercialise their technology.
Further updates will be provided as the project advances, the companies add.