The project targets lipase-based esterification in the absence of solvent. The advantages of this approach compared to traditional chemical processes, include process simplification, increased product quality and reduced carbon footprint.

The project consortium will research raw materials, pilot production, general product specifications and applications for cosmetics and feed, in view of bridging the gap in available technology for esterification of fatty acids with lower alcohols and tackling the limited commercial availability of lipase-catalyzed esters. VITO is the main research partner in the project.

The project is funded by The Flemish Agency for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (VLAIO) and supported by Catalisti, the spearhead cluster for chemistry and plastics.