Godavari Biorefineries (GBL), Catalyxx to convert ethanol into biobutanol, higher alcohols

Godavari Biorefineries Limited (GBL), one of India’s leading ethanol producers and a pioneer in ethanol-based chemical manufacturing, has signed a licensing agreement with Catalyxx Inc. to convert ethanol into biobutanol and other higher alcohols.

Under this agreement, Catalyxx Inc. will provide the technology for the conversion process, which will be referred to as the “Licensed Product.” The licensing fee for this technology is set at USD 1,931,850. Additionally, GBL will pay royalties to Catalyxx based on the gross sales of the Licensed Products manufactured at its facility. The agreement also includes benefits associated with being the first adopter of this technology.

The licensor grants GBL an exclusive license to use the intellectual property rights (IPR) for manufacturing the Licensed Products within the specified region and field of use. It also provides a non-exclusive, non-transferable license to market and sell the products globally, though without sublicensing rights.

GBL intends to utilize the licensed IPR to build a chemical production facility that will commercialize this technology, with a projected capacity to produce up to 30,000 metric tons of Licensed Products annually. Catalyxx has agreed to provide the license under the terms outlined in the agreement.

In a recent conference call discussing its financial results for the second quarter ending September 30, 2024, GBL shared that it is also exploring grain-based ethanol production, further diversifying its operations and production capabilities.

Samir Somaiya, CMD of GBL, said, “This partnership with Catalyxx Inc reflects our commitment to advancing sustainable chemistry and underscores our leadership in the bio-chemicals sector. We are excited to embark on this journey and look forward to the positive impact this project will have on our business, the environment, and the communities we serve.”

Joaquín Alarcón, CEO of Catalyxx, stated, “This strategic partnership with Godavari Biorefineries, a company with an exceptional track record in sustainability, demonstrates the global recognition of our technology’s impact and sets the foundation for the next phase of Catalyxx’s growth. Together, we are pioneering a more sustainable future for the chemical industry.”