FUSE

Using bioelectrochemistry, the project will establish innovative bio-based value chains that convert underutilised C5 sugars, abundant in Sweden’s biomass, into furan dicarboxylic acid (FDCA), a key precursor for bio-based polymers (for instance in PEF).

Traditionally, FDCA is produced from C6 sugars via energy-intensive processes. In contrast, FUSE will valorise C5 sugars via bio-electrochemical and enzymatic routes, offering a sustainable alternative. The enzymatic route also incorporates CO₂ valorisation, contributing to reduced carbon emissions. Both approaches are designed to operate under mild conditions with nature-inspired catalysts (enzymes and electrochemical systems), resulting in no toxic by-products and potential negative CO₂ emissions.

Furthermore, the project addresses the life cycle impact assessment of these novel pathways, which remain largely unexplored. By tapping into C5 sugars and CO₂, FUSE seeks to reshape the current landscape of furan production and offer truly circular, bio-based alternatives.

Purpose and objectives 

• Develop sustainable, bio-based value chains for furan platform chemicals.
• Establish bio-electrochemical and enzymatic conversion methods for FDCA from C5 sugars.
• Integrate CO₂ valorisation into the enzymatic pathway to reduce emissions.
• Evaluate the environmental and life cycle assessment of the proposed processes.
• Demonstrate scalable processes under real-world conditions at RISE Processum.

RISE role and mission  

RISE plays a central role in both the biotechnological and electrochemical components of the project.

• The enzymatic conversion will be scaled up and demonstrated on-site at RISE Processum AB.
• The electrochemical processes will be carried out entirely at RISE Processum AB using Testbed 18, the dedicated electrochemical platform.