C5 Sugar Extraction solutions for a Global Paper and Pulp Company
Join us in developing a cost-effective and efficient solution for extracting C5 sugars from pulping processes.
Our client
We are scouting for solutions on behalf our our client, a leading global paper and pulp company. They are seeking innovative solutions for extracting C5 sugars from its pulping processes. The objective is to develop an efficient, cost-effective extraction method that integrates with existing operations, maximising the recovery of C5 sugars or their beneficiation products, while maintaining pulp quality.
Early extraction of C5/C6 Sugars in the pulping process
Our client, a leading global player in the pulp and paper industry, is seeking innovative technologies for extracting C5 sugars (C6 sugars can be considered as well) from their chemical pulping process. The aim is to capture these sugars as early as possible—such as during pretreatment or pre-pulping—to prevent degradation during pulping and maximise the availability for further beneficiation. The solution should integrate with existing pulp mill operations, optimizing on-site recovery whilst ensuring an equivalent or superior pulp product. The solution must be focused on woody biomass. Additionally, it is a plus if the technology can also fractionate other organic compounds in the biomass.
Key requirements
- System integration: After the extraction, the residual streams need to be able to reintegrate into the pulping system. Processing of these streams need to remain economical. The solution should be able to apply to typical chemical pulping processes such as kraft, prehydrolysis kraft or sulphite.
- No impact on key performance metrics: The technology needs to ensure the core pulp and paper products can still be produced with equivalent or superior key performance metrics.
- Applicable to woody biomasses: species such as eucalyptus, aspen, maple, beech, birch, pine and spruce, etc.
- [Nice to have] Type of sugars: Ideally, the preferred sugar to be extracted is xylose; however, extraction of any type of C5 and C6 sugars will be considered.
- [Nice to have] Valorisation of sugars: While the primary focus of the solution should be on the extraction of sugars, it would be advantageous if the solution also facilitates the conversion of the sugar to a readily marketable product and can be sold to various industries.
- [Nice to have] Fractionation of other organic components: The ability of the technology to be able to fractionate other organic components, such as lignin or organic acids, will be advantageous.
- Adherence to safety and environmental standards specific to chemical handling and processing in the pulp and paper industry.
Minimum Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 4 in the paper and pulp industry: The technology has been successfully tested and validated in a relevant environment, closely simulating real-world conditions. The system’s components have been integrated and demonstrated to function cohesively, confirming the technology’s performance and readiness for further development. Note: Proven technologies outside the paper and pulp company are also of interest, although these solutions should be a TRL of 7 or more.
Examples could be: Oil & gas refining industry, Biorefinery industry, Separation technologies
Practicalities
How to apply
To apply for the challenge, please fill out the application form on this page.
If we determine that your solution aligns well with our needs based on the provided information, we will contact you with a detailed Request for Proposal (RFP).
Key elements to submit
The application form will gather detailed information about your company, your solution and how it addresses the specific challenge. You can also upload any supporting documents that might help us better understand what you can offer.
The full Request for Proposal (RFP) documentation will require a more comprehensive view of your capabilities, enabling us to make a final assessment.
Timeline
Your journey starts here
6 Sept
Final deadline to submit the application form. If we determine that your solution aligns well with our needs based on the provided information, we will contact you with a detailed Request for Proposal (RFP).
13 Sept
All proposals must be submitted by the specified closing date. Late submissions will not be accepted.
4 Oct
Proposals are reviewed. We will reach out to pre-selected solution providers to arrange a pitch date.
14-18 Oct
Selected solution providers will be invited to pitch their proposals to the client.
25 Oct
Final evaluation and selection of the most suitable solutions.
Next
Pilot preparation and launch to test the selected solutions.
Contact us
For general enquiries about this challenge, please reach out to [email protected] and [email protected]
