(28e) Life-Cycle Analysis (LCA) of Bio-Derived Terephtalic Acid (TPA) and Bio-Derived-Hexamethylenediamine (HMDA)

Increasing efforts to reduce environmental impacts while boosting U.S chemical production have been an important driver in the growing bioeconomy. These efforts not only stimulate economic development but also promote competitiveness in the bioeconomy. Under the analysis led by the Clean Energy Manufacturing Analysis Center (CEMAC), screening of the impact of initial 170 chemicals derived from biomass were conducted, resulting in three relevant bioproducts: 3- hydroxypropionic acid (HP), terephtalic acid (TPA), and hexamethylenediamine (HMDA). These bio-derived chemicals can be used in the production of superabsorbent polymers, coatings, adhesives, plastics, fibers, paints, etc. In this work, we use the Greenhouse gases, Regulated Emissions and Energy use in Transportation (GREET®) model to conduct a life-cycle analysis (LCA) on the last two bioproducts: TPA and HMDA. We evaluate the key drivers of the GHG emissions and water consumption. We present thermochemical and biochemical pathways as alternative production pathways for these chemicals. These biomass-derived chemicals can displace fossil-derived products potentially and reduce GHG emissions, water and fossil fuel consumption as compared to their fossil-derived counterparts.