A Review on the Production of C4 Platform Chemicals from Biochemical Conversion of Sugar Crop Processing Products and By-Products

The development and commercialization of sustainable chemicals from agricultural products by-products is necessary for a circular economy built on renewable natural resources. Among the largest contributors to final cost biomass conversion product initial feedstock, representing significant challenge in effective utilization. Another major identifying correct development, which must be able satisfy need both low-cost, drop-in fossil fuel replacements novel, high-value fine (and/or commodity chemicals). Both challenges can met by utilizing wastes or processing, have very limited starting cost, yield platform chemicals. Specifically, sugar crop processing (e.g., sugarcane, beet) mature industry that produces high volumes with potential valorization. This review focuses specifically production acetoin (3-hydroxybutanone), 2,3-butanediol, C4 dicarboxylic (succinic, malic, fumaric) acids emphasis biochemical targeted upgrading products/by-products. These compounds are easily derived fermentations converted into many different products, including food, fragrance, cosmetic additives, as well biofuels other State-of-the-art literature pertaining optimization strategies microbial byproducts bagasse, molasses) reviewed, along routes Directions opportunities future research industrial biotechnology discussed.