US-based intermediates, polymers and fibres producer Invista (Wichita, Kansas / USA; www.invista.com) is collaborating with the Centre for Process Innovation (CPI, Wilton / UK; www.uk-cpi.com) to develop new gas fermentation processes for chemical production. The companies said the partnership will combine Invista’s capabilities in biotechnology and catalysis with CPI’s knowledge of developing and scaling up new products and processes.

Biotechnology has the potential to improve significantly the cost and availability of several chemicals and raw materials that are used to produce Invista’s products, said Warren Primeaux, president of Invista Intermediates. “We see gas fermentation as a key enabling technology that will allow the use of potentially advantaged gas feedstocks such as waste industrial gases,” he added.