Core Viewpoint - The 18th Tianjushi Technology Forum focuses on the theme "Breaking the Game, Transforming: Co-creating a New Chapter in Fine Chemicals and Synthetic Biology Industry," aiming to gather top talents from academia and industry to explore the direction of industrial development and promote practical cooperation [1][5]. Group 1: Opening Remarks - Dr. Chen Ping, Vice Chairman of the Tianjushi Technology Forum Committee, emphasized the transition of the fine chemicals and synthetic biology industry towards high-end, intelligent, and green development, highlighting the forum's role in facilitating thought collisions and transforming them into actual development momentum [5][7]. - Mr. Yue Min, Chairman of Shenzhen Yanyi New Materials Co., Ltd., stated that innovation must translate from laboratory results to industrial value, viewing the forum as a collaborative accelerator to bridge the "last mile" of industrialization [7]. Group 2: Keynote Speeches - Dr. Li Yan, Director of the Material Chemical Department at the Petroleum and Chemical Industry Planning Institute, discussed the innovation and development of the fine chemical industry during the 14th Five-Year Plan, noting a shift from "large quantity" to "qualitative change" and emphasizing the need for continuous innovation in high-performance resins and green processes [10][12]. - Professor Liu Dehua from Tsinghua University highlighted the significance of transitioning from "mineral refining" to "biological refining," marking it as a milestone for sustainable economic development and sharing advancements in biodiesel and PDO bio-refining technologies [12][14]. - Dr. Jerry Lin, CEO of Zhongfu Application Industry Co., Ltd., pointed out the continuous growth of the global semiconductor materials market, with China holding over half of the market share, while emphasizing the urgent technical needs in photolithography and related reagents [14][16]. - Mr. Wu Shaohua, Chief Designer of Tianjushi Group, introduced a new engineering technology model that addresses industrialization bottlenecks, ensuring project success and promoting a technology-driven transformation in the industry [16][18]. - Dr. Xia Jianye from the Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology presented an intelligent solution for fermentation processes, marking a shift from experience-driven to data and model-driven approaches [18][20]. - Mr. Su Zhenyu, a safety expert, discussed strategies for eliminating catastrophic accidents in the chemical industry, emphasizing the importance of risk prevention at multiple management levels [20][22]. - Professor Sun Fuchun from Tsinghua University addressed the transformative role of artificial intelligence in reshaping industries and society, while also acknowledging the challenges it presents [22][24]. Group 3: Industry-Academia Dialogue - A dialogue session featured discussions among experts on sustainable development in fine chemicals, key factors for synthetic biology, intelligent fermentation, safety management in process design, and the advantages of the flow battery industry, injecting new ideas for high-quality industrial development [24][26].

Core Viewpoint - The NFUCon 2025 forum will focus on the innovative research achievements and commercial feasibility in the non-grain biomass sector, aiming to promote large-scale applications of non-grain biomass and support carbon neutrality goals [2]. Organization - The forum is organized by Ningbo Detai Zhongyan Information Technology Co., Ltd. and the National Key Laboratory of Bio-based Transportation Fuel Technology, with prominent figures from various institutions serving as co-chairs [3][4]. Guest Highlights - Notable speakers include Zhu Jin, who has achieved multiple industrialization results in bio-based polymer materials, and Li Zhenglong, who focuses on the conversion of low-carbon resources [4][5][6]. Forum Agenda - The forum will feature various sessions on topics such as biomass green pretreatment, non-grain sugars, bio-based chemicals, and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) [15][16]. Technology Showcase - A special event for showcasing and connecting innovative projects in the biomass utilization field will be held, inviting 50 commercializable projects for display and networking [17]. Laboratory Overview - The National Key Laboratory of Bio-based Transportation Fuel Technology focuses on four core areas: fiber ethanol technology, bio-aviation fuel technology, CO2-based polycarbonate technology, and biofuel evaluation standards [22].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses a breakthrough in converting CO2 into high-value C3-C4 diols through a synergistic electrochemical and AI-assisted biosynthesis system, highlighting its significance for green chemistry and carbon neutrality [2][3][4]. Group 1: Research Breakthroughs - A novel carbon-negative emission system has been developed, integrating electrochemical and biocatalytic processes to efficiently convert CO2 into 1,3-propanediol (1,3-PDO) and 1,3-butanediol (1,3-BDO) [4][15]. - The electrochemical module utilizes a CuZn alloy catalyst, achieving an ethanol production rate of 1200 μmol h⁻¹ cm⁻² at an amperometric current density of -1100 mA cm⁻², with a Faradaic efficiency of 35% [6][15]. - The biocatalytic module employs engineered DERA enzymes to extend C–C bonds, significantly enhancing the synthesis efficiency of 1,3-PDO to a record yield of 1.8 g L⁻¹ h⁻¹ [10][15]. Group 2: Technological Innovations - A biomimetic J-T membrane has been developed to address ethanol permeation issues, achieving less than 1% ethanol crossover while maintaining high OH⁻ conductivity [7][15]. - AI-assisted enzyme engineering has led to a 2.5-fold increase in catalytic efficiency for the DERA enzyme, facilitating faster synthesis of target diols [10][15]. - Molecular dynamics simulations revealed that mutations introduced new hydrogen bonding networks, enhancing substrate affinity and catalytic efficiency [11][15]. Group 3: Performance Metrics - The integrated system achieved a production rate of 1.8 g L⁻¹ h⁻¹ for 1,3-PDO and 1.0 g L⁻¹ h⁻¹ for 1,3-BDO, with a carbon atom utilization rate of approximately 80% [15]. - All carbon atoms in the products were confirmed to originate from CO2, showcasing the system's efficiency compared to existing electro-biological hybrid systems, which typically yield less than 0.05 g L⁻¹ h⁻¹ [15][18]. - The research demonstrates significant advancements in catalyst design, membrane separation, and enzyme engineering, emphasizing the potential of interdisciplinary collaboration in green synthesis [16].

Core Insights - The article discusses the recent developments in the biomanufacturing industry, particularly focusing on projects related to lactic acid and polylactic acid production in Shandong province, China [2][3][4][5]. Project Developments - The Pingyi Fengyuan Lactic Acid Biotechnology Co., Ltd. is set to invest 60 million yuan in a project to produce 90,000 tons per year of lactic acid, utilizing straw sugar through fermentation and purification processes [3]. - The Pingyi Fengyuan Polylactic Acid Biotechnology Co., Ltd. plans to establish a project with a production capacity of 60,000 tons per year of polylactic acid, using lactic acid as a raw material [5]. - The Pingyi Polylactic Acid Modified Materials Co., Ltd. will invest 15 million yuan in a project to produce 60,000 tons per year of modified polylactic acid, with an expected completion date in January 2026 [6]. Production Capacity and Investment - The lactic acid project will have a production line capable of achieving an annual output of 90,000 tons, while the polylactic acid and modified materials projects will each reach 60,000 tons per year upon completion [3][5][6]. - The total investment for the modified materials project includes 1 million yuan allocated for environmental protection measures [6]. Industry Events - The Fifth Non-Grain Biomass High-Value Utilization Forum will focus on non-grain bio-based chemicals and materials, highlighting the industry's commitment to sustainable practices [9][10]. - The forum will feature various specialized sessions, including discussions on bio-based chemicals and materials, indicating a growing interest in the sector [13].

Core Viewpoint - The NFUCon 2025 forum will focus on the innovative research and commercial feasibility in the non-grain biomass sector, aiming to promote large-scale applications of non-grain biomass and support carbon neutrality goals [2]. Group 1: Event Overview - The NFUCon 2025 will be held from November 27 to 29, 2025, in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, under the theme "Top Talent Gathering, Industry Symbiosis" [2]. - The forum will invite representatives from government, enterprises, and experts to discuss key strategic directions such as biomass green pretreatment, non-grain sugars, biomass-based chemicals and materials, and biomass energy [2]. Group 2: Organizing Institutions - The forum is organized by Ningbo Detaizhong Research Information Technology Co., Ltd. and the National Key Laboratory of Biomass Transportation Fuel Technology [3]. - Key figures include Zhu Jin, Li Zhenglong, and Zhang Xinghong, who hold significant positions in relevant research institutions and laboratories [3][4][5]. Group 3: Guest Speakers - Notable speakers include Zhu Jin, who has achieved multiple industrialization results in heat-resistant polylactic acid foaming materials and other biomass materials [4]. - Li Zhenglong focuses on the conversion and utilization of low-carbon resources, particularly in renewable aviation fuel and biomass high-value utilization [5]. - Zhang Xinghong is involved in polymer synthesis research and CO2-based polycarbonate technology [6]. Group 4: Forum Agenda - The forum will feature various activities, including a youth forum on non-grain biomass, a sustainable aviation fuel industry exchange, and thematic discussions on biomass chemicals and energy [15][16]. - A technology achievement display area will be set up to showcase 50 innovative results and projects with commercial potential in biomass utilization [17]. Group 5: Laboratory Focus - The National Key Laboratory of Biomass Transportation Fuel Technology focuses on four core areas: fiber ethanol technology, bio-aviation fuel technology, CO2-based polycarbonate technology, and biofuel evaluation standards [22].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the significance of biomanufacturing as a key emerging industry in China's 14th Five-Year Plan, highlighting its potential to transform manufacturing, promote sustainability, and attract substantial capital investment [2][4][5]. Group 1: Importance of Biomanufacturing - Biomanufacturing is crucial for China's manufacturing transformation, serving as a new form of productive force that can empower various manufacturing sectors [4]. - It represents a sustainable and low-carbon industry direction, addressing China's deficiencies in oil and arable land [4]. - The biomanufacturing sector has the potential to become a massive new industry, with the U.S. planning a $30 trillion biomanufacturing market, equivalent to recreating the U.S. economy [5][6]. - This sector is expected to absorb vast amounts of capital, becoming a significant funding pool following the real estate bubble burst [5]. Group 2: Strategic Importance and Global Competition - Biomanufacturing is strategically as important as chip manufacturing, with projections indicating it could account for one-third of global manufacturing output by the end of the century [6]. - Countries are actively positioning themselves in biomanufacturing to avoid falling behind in future industrial competition [6]. - The U.S. has set a goal to replace 90% of traditional plastics with bio-based products within 20 years, while the EU plans to implement a carbon border adjustment mechanism by 2027, creating new trade barriers for high-carbon products from China [6][7]. Group 3: Challenges and Development Strategies - Despite holding 70% of global fermentation capacity, China's biomanufacturing industry faces challenges such as a lack of proprietary strains and limitations in core software tools [8]. - Mastering foundational technologies is critical for the development of China's biomanufacturing sector over the next decade [9]. - Key strategies include establishing high-level research platforms, promoting collaborative innovation between academia and industry, and enhancing market mechanisms to give enterprises a more significant role in research direction [9]. - There is a call for top-level design to focus on cutting-edge areas like CO2 bioconversion and future food manufacturing, aiming to address both green chemical alternatives and protein supply security [9].

Core Viewpoint - BASF and IFF have formed a strategic partnership to accelerate the development of IFF's Designed Enzymatic Biomaterials™ (DEB) platform, focusing on high-performance, sustainable enzyme and bio-based polymer solutions for various applications, including fabric care, personal care, and industrial cleaning [2][6]. Group 1: Technological Collaboration - The DEB platform, launched in September, aims to commercialize unique polysaccharides that mimic natural components, replacing non-degradable ingredients in laundry formulations with bio-based solutions [5][6]. - The collaboration will expand the application of DEB technology into personal care, fabric washing, and industrial cleaning sectors [6]. Group 2: Innovation in Raw Materials Driven by Biotechnology - Enzymes are increasingly used in beauty and cleaning products, enhancing performance while reducing reliance on chemical ingredients, aligning with consumer demand for natural and eco-friendly products [6][7]. - In the beauty sector, enzymes facilitate biochemical reactions that improve skin conditions, with applications in exfoliation, antioxidant effects, anti-inflammation, whitening, and enhancing moisture retention [6][7]. Group 3: Market Trends and Growth - The anti-aging cosmetics market in China is projected to reach CNY 307.57 billion in 2024, growing by 17.2% year-on-year, while the whitening cosmetics market is expected to reach CNY 106.92 billion, with a growth rate of 6.0% [7]. - Recent advancements in biotechnology have led to the introduction of new bio-based raw materials, such as BASF's Verdessence Maize and Evonik's TEGOSOFT BC MB emulsifier, which significantly reduce carbon footprints compared to traditional chemical processes [9].

Core Insights - The article discusses the recent signing of key projects at the Changzhou Zhonglou Synthetic Biology AI Research Institute, focusing on addressing industry pain points and public health needs through innovative collaborations in synthetic biology and AI [2][4]. Project Progress - The signing ceremony highlighted 11 cutting-edge projects aimed at enhancing the high-quality development of the synthetic biology AI industry, covering platform cooperation, innovation incubation, and smart healthcare [2][4]. - Five platform cooperation projects were initiated to address industry capability gaps, including an "AI + Industry Integration Platform" by iFlytek and a focus on AI-enabled cell therapy for solid tumors by the Changzhou Xitaihu Cell Therapy Research Institute [4]. - Three innovation incubation projects aim to transition research outcomes into industry applications, such as the AI synthetic biology computing platform to reduce anti-tumor drug development costs [4]. Smart Healthcare Initiatives - Three smart healthcare projects were launched to tackle public health issues, including a synthetic biology functional food project and an AI smart rehabilitation therapy project [4]. - The initiatives aim to shift healthcare services from reactive treatment to proactive prevention, enhancing overall health management [4]. Expert Insights - Following the signing ceremony, experts discussed trends in "Biological Intelligent Manufacturing" and the intersection of artificial intelligence with synthetic biology, providing case studies to illustrate these developments [5].

Core Viewpoint - Non-grain biomass pretreatment is an effective way to overcome its degradation barrier and is a key technology for preparing sugar platforms, which is crucial for the efficient production of bio-based materials and energy chemicals [2][3]. Group 1: Technology Development - The development of "clean and efficient" pretreatment technologies and equipment is a core technological bottleneck for the sustainable development of the biomass refining industry [3]. - Research conducted by Professor Ren Junli's team at South China University of Technology focuses on the dissolution kinetics and molecular response behavior of non-grain biomass hemicellulose and lignin in different chemical environments, leading to the development of key technologies for efficient disassembly of hemicellulose and lignin [3]. - The research aims to achieve low energy consumption, cleanliness, and efficiency in pretreatment processes, providing industrially applicable key technologies for the sustainable development of sugar platforms, platform chemicals, bioenergy, and other biomass industries [3]. Group 2: Forum Announcement - The "2025 (Fifth) Non-grain Biomass High-Value Utilization Forum (NFUCon 2025)" will be held from January 27-29, 2025, in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, where Professor Ren Junli will present a report titled "Clean and Efficient Pretreatment Technology for Non-grain Biomass" [3]. - The forum will feature prominent speakers, including Professor Jin Mingjie discussing the full-chain innovation of non-grain biomass high-value utilization, and researcher Zhu Jin presenting new advances in bio-based polymer materials [7].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the advancements in non-grain biomass utilization, particularly focusing on innovative research outcomes and their commercial viability in the field of bio-based materials, showcased at the fifth Non-Grain Biomass High-Value Utilization Forum held in Hangzhou, Zhejiang [2]. Summary by Sections Forum Overview - The forum aims to facilitate technology transfer and commercialization in the non-grain biomass sector, having completed over 1500 technology and project matches to date [2]. - The event includes a special activity for showcasing and matching innovative results in biomass utilization, with 50 projects selected for display and precise matching [2]. Innovative Results - **New Sunscreen Agent: Light-colored Camellia Fruit Shell Lignin** [6] - Lignin is recognized for its green safety and superior UV resistance, showing potential as a natural sunscreen agent [7]. - A light-colored nano-lignin was efficiently isolated from camellia fruit shells, achieving a whiteness of 70.90, which significantly enhances the SPF of chemical sunscreens when added [7]. - **Enzymatic Lignin Processing** [8] - Enzymatic lignin, produced through a mild extraction process, retains more native structure but faces challenges like wide molecular weight distribution and color issues [8]. - The application of organic acids for graded processing allows for color control of lignin, resulting in significant color differences between soluble and insoluble lignin [9][10]. - **Modified Lignin for Sunscreen Applications** [8] - Further refinement using organic phosphoric acid catalysis leads to modified lignin that significantly improves SPF performance in sunscreens [11]. Technical Advantages - **Lignin Structure and Performance** [9] - The structure of camellia fruit shell lignin was characterized, revealing a G/S type structure with a significant number of C-C bonds, indicating a strong synergistic relationship with chemical sunscreen agents [9]. - The extraction process was optimized to produce light-colored, efficient UV-resistant lignin without generating additional chromophores [10]. - **Color Control and Yield** [10] - The organic acid grading method offers a broader range of color control compared to conventional solvent grading methods, achieving significant color variations in both soluble and insoluble lignin [10]. - **Industrial Application Potential** [11] - The modified lignin derived from enzymatic processing shows promise for broader industrial applications, enhancing the value of industrial lignin [11].