Core Viewpoint - The article highlights significant advancements in the production of bio-based acrylic acid, particularly through the innovative fermentation technology developed by Industrial Microbes, which utilizes ethanol as a renewable feedstock, leading to cost reductions and sustainability in chemical manufacturing [4]. Group 1: Bio-based Acrylic Acid Production - Industrial Microbes has achieved a breakthrough in sustainable chemical manufacturing by scaling up the production of 100% bio-based high-purity acrylic acid using advanced fermentation technology [4]. - The production process avoids toxic solvents and complex extraction steps, which contributes to lower costs compared to traditional methods [4]. - The market for bio-based acrylic acid is expected to grow significantly, with projections estimating a market size of $18 billion (approximately 127.9 billion RMB) by 2030 [6]. Group 2: Applications of Bio-based Acrylic Acid - Bio-based acrylic acid has a wide range of applications across various industries, including personal care, cosmetics, eco-friendly paints, coatings, and adhesives for electronics and automotive sectors [5]. - In personal care, it is a key raw material for producing superabsorbent polymers (SAP) used in diapers, while in cosmetics, it is increasingly favored as a plant-based, natural ingredient [5]. Group 3: Technological Pathways for Production - There are four main technological pathways for producing bio-based acrylic acid, each with unique advantages and challenges: - The 3-hydroxypropionic acid (3HP) pathway is one of the fastest progressing routes, utilizing microbial fermentation of sugars or vegetable oils [8]. - The lactic acid dehydration method is widely researched but faces challenges such as catalyst deactivation and selectivity [8]. - The ethanol conversion pathway developed by iMicrobes shows promise by modifying E. coli to utilize ethanol, leading to high accumulation of poly(3-hydroxypropionic acid) [8]. - The glycerol dehydration oxidation method uses glycerol, a byproduct of biodiesel, as a feedstock, which has lower raw material costs but requires high-performance catalysts [8]. Group 4: Industry Participation - Several companies are actively developing bio-based acrylic acid technologies and advancing commercialization, including traditional chemical giants like BASF, Arkema, and Toray, as well as Chinese company Ningbo Huanyang Technology [9].