Braskem, a global leader in biopolymers production, and Lallemand Biofuels & Distilled Spirits (LBDS), a global leader in the development of yeasts, enzymes, and microbiological solutions, announce the development of an innovative technology for producing bioacetone from corn ethanol.

The new technology enables ethanol plants to generate a new high value-added co-product without compromising fuel production efficiency. In this project, LBDS's expertise in yeast technology is combined with Braskem's proprietary separation technology, a bolt-on process that enables efficient bioacetone production. Braskem will be responsible for market development and commercialization of the product, focusing on the United States and Europe.

Innovation and Global Decarbonization

The project reinforces Braskem's leadership role in the "bio-revolution" and in offering solutions that help global industries decarbonize their value chains. Bioacetone is an alternative for applications that require a lower carbon footprint due to its drop-in characteristics.

Global demand for acetone exceeds 8 million tons per year, and Braskem's renewable version, developed in partnership with LBDS, serves demanding sectors seeking sustainability, including:

• Cosmetics (removers and solvents);
• Paints and Coatings;
• Acrylics, adhesives, and personal care products.

"Combining Braskem's expertise in biochemicals with Lallemand Biofuels & Distilled Spirits' fermentation expertise represents a significant step for the petrochemical industry toward a more sustainable future," said Cirilo Vieira, Braskem's Director of Business Development for Renewables and Biochemicals.

Strategy and Timeline

After five years of joint development, the technology is beginning to be made available to the North American ethanol industry. Bioacetone is expected to be commercially available on an industrial scale in 2028. This advancement is part of Braskem's innovation ecosystem, which allocated 49% of its R&D resources to sustainability-focused projects in 2025.