Novel biobased corrosion inhibitor & building blocks based on sugar beet pulp

 
Within Cosun, we have developed a biorefinery concept on sugar beet pulp. Within this flexible concept, we are able to isolate cellulosic fibers, and different monosaccharides. One of the key monosaccharides is D-Galacturonic acid. Using mild processing conditions, galacturonic acid can be isolated and selectively oxidized to Galactaric acid. This molecule has multiple outlets including a corrosion inhibitor. It offers unique functionalities and shows distinguishing results to aluminium. In preliminary (external) tests, it shows equal or better performance to commercial fossil benchmarks. For higher volume outlets, polymers can be made using Galactaric acid as an intermediate to GalX. This novel platform building block shows new opportunities to biobased coatings and crosslinkers. In shared research with companies and universities, GalX shows good Mw and Tg. Besides these parameters, the improved water solubility and water stability compared to adipic acid is an unmet market need for new formulations.