Bio-isobutene is a bioderived variant of conventional isobutene, which finds its application in a myriad of end-user industries such as fuel and fuel additives, butyl rubber, cosmetics and personal care industry, lubricants, and green plastics. The development of bio-isobutene focuses on socio-economic and environmental sustainability in the gross isobutene value chain. The value chain includes the conversion of wheat straw and other suitable bio-based waste into bio-isobutene and its derivative oligomers.
In March 2019, Butagaz and Global Bioenergies delivered their first batch of bio-isobutane to France’s largest organic wine cooperative, Héraclès winery. Global Bioenergies is a pioneer in using renewable sources to produce gaseous hydrocarbons through the process of fermentation.
According to the market intelligence published by BIS Research, the global bio-isobutene market was estimated at $4.1 million in 2019 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 150.03% during the forecast period 2020-2025.
The market growth is attributed to the factors such as stringent government regulation and support for sustainable development, evolution in major end-user industries in Europe, especially the automotive sector, competitive raw material cost, and shifting fuel standards in the aerospace industry.
The bio-isobutene market is also influenced by several trends, including a focus on development of bio-based rubber and rubber chemicals, growing research and development activities, adopting sustainable routes, and compromising commercial success.
With the increase in awareness regarding the harmful effects posed by synthetic chemicals, consumers are now abstaining from using chemical-infused products. In many instances, it has been found that toxic chemicals are being used in low-quality products, hence causing life-threatening problems in some cases. This has led to an increase in awareness among consumers across the globe, resulting in an increase in the demand for natural products.
The types of bio-isobutene available in the market include straw-derived bio-isobutene, sugar beet and cane-derived bio-isobutene, and others. The others include wood, cereals, and tubers, among others. The straw-derived bio-isobutene is expected to witness a large-scale adoption in the next five years. However, the sugar beet and cane-derived isobutene segment is expected to grow faster-duringthe forecast period.
The specifications of the bio-based raw materials such as straw-derived, and sugar beet and cane-derived bio-isobutene are highlighted as well. First, these are produced through sustainable fermentative routes, which are capable of slashing a significant amount of carbon emission per annum. Second, sugar beet and cane-based feedstock are high in sugar content as compared to straw-based feedstock. Therefore, despite the dominance of straw-based bio isobutene throughout the forecast period the demand for sugar beet and cane-based bio-isobutene is expected to gain momentum after 2022. Lastly, bio-based isobutene is the best alternative and fulfil the regulatory standards.
