TECHNOLOGY LICENSING OPPORTUNITY: 3-HP Upgrading Platform

The 3-HP Upgrading Platform is a novel, bio-based pathway to produce methyl methacrylate (MMA) by converting renewably producible 3-hydroxypropionic acid (3-HP) into a constituent substrate for normally petroleum-derived MMA. This technology has several key advantages, including a bio-based production route, drop-in compatibility with existing MMA/PMMA applications and supply chains, and improved process efficiency. The platform has various market applications, including automotive, electronics, construction, medical, adhesives, and consumer and industrial plastics. Some key points about this opportunity include: • Bio-based production route reducing reliance on petroleum feedstocks • Drop-in compatibility with existing MMA/PMMA applications and supply chains • Direct use of fermentation streams, minimizing purification requirements • Improved process efficiency through integrated reaction and extraction • Novel conversion pathway from 3-HP to MMA, including a unique intermediate • Alignment with sustainability goals and growing demand for greener materials