Biotechnology for the production of commodity chemicals from biomass

Abstract

Current developments, especially in fermentation technologies, membrane technologies and genetic manipulation open new possibilities for the biotechnological production of market relevant chemicals from renewable resources. This article reviews possible fermentation strategies, actual research activities and future research demands to enhance the use of renewable resources as a source of chemicals. Special focus is put on commodity chemicals, which have a considerable market volume or which are believed to be key chemicals of the future.