Petrobras, Novozymes to develop Gen2 biofuel

Danish industrial enzymes producer Novozymes said it will work with Brazil’s Petrobras to develop new ways of producing advanced bioethanol from sugarcane bagasse. The deal covers the development of enzymes and production processes to make second-generation cellulosic ethanol from bagasse in an enzymatic process, Novozymes said in a statement. Poul Ruben Andersen, Novozymes director of bioenergy, said he was confident that both parties would greatly benefit from the partnership as cellulosic ethanol is commercialized in Brazil. Novozymes was unwilling to release financial conditions of the agreement. (October 16, 2010)