DuPont to continue support of QCCP Cellerate process

DuPont Industrial Biosciences and Quad County Corn Processors (QCCP) announced a new multi-year deal Oct. 15 for DuPont to supply the enzymes that facilitate QCCP’s Cellerate process in the production of cellulosic biofuel from corn kernel fiber.

“DuPont’s enzymes have consistently outperformed other products in driving cellulosic ethanol and corn oil yield in our Cellerate process,” QCCP Chief Engineer Travis Brotherson said. 

Low greenhouse gas transportation fuels use cellulosic ethanol, which is made from the inedible parts of plants. QCCP-produced cellulosic ethanol and DuPont’s enzymes have been used since the process started. Now, QCCP produces 35 million gallons per year.

“We’ve developed a whole new category for ethanol producers to get their foot in the door of the cellulosic market,” QCCP Chief Executive Officer Delayne Johnson said. “And no other partner offers the breadth of expertise that DuPont brings to the table – from enzymes to co-products. Together, we are able to deliver the most advanced process technology for our customers to grow this market and deliver on the promise of advanced renewable fuel.”

DuPont and QCCP will join together to produce cellulosic ethanol this fall. On Friday, DuPont will commission its own cellulosic ethanol bio-refinery in Iowa.