Patent attributes
A process for forming an ester from 1,3-propanediol comprising providing 1,3-propanediol with at least 90% biobased carbon, contacting the 1,3-propanediol with an acid, thereby forming the ester, and recovering the ester is provided. The acid can be an organic acid. Additionally, a process for producing an ester, either or both a monoester and a diester, from biologically-produced 1,3-propanediol is provided. This process includes providing 1,3-propanediol produced biologically through fermentation and catalytic conversion of atmospheric carbon, contacting the 1,3-propanediol with an organic acid, wherein said ester is produced; and recovering the ester. In this process the 1,3-propanediol can have has at least 95% biobased carbon, or can have 100% biobased carbon.