Gevo, Inc. reported that the implementation of the side-by-side operational mode (SBS) of its plant in Luverne, MN is on track. In the beginning of June, Gevo commenced the co-production of isobutanol and ethanol, with one fermenter dedicated to isobutanol production and three fermenters dedicated to ethanol production.
"The implementation of the SBS is tracking to our plan and validating the underlying premises for switching to this mode of production,” said Dr. Patrick Gruber, Gevo's CEO. “Operating all the assets of the plant has aided us greatly in solving issues that were impeding the ramp-up of isobutanol using one fermenter in isolation, specifically the consistent management of infections and the handling of recycle streams and solids,"
Key results achieved thus far, according to the company, include:
-- Successful production of isobutanol at initial run rates of tens of thousands of gallons per month in a commercial-scale one million liter fermenter (in line with previous guidance).
-- Ethanol production at a run rate of approximately 1.5 million gallons per month (above previous guidance of 1.25 million gallons per month);
For more information, visit www.gevo.com
