The worldwide patent landscape of biorefinery-related: technologies between 2000 and 2022

Abstract

This study aims to analyze ongoing research efforts focused on developing novel technologies for application in biorefinery platforms. The transition from petroleum-based energy sources to a bioeconomy is crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating the adverse impacts of climate change, as outlined in the Paris Agreement. By examining the current state of research in this field, this study seeks to identify emerging technologies that can contribute to achieving these environmental objectives. Materials and Methods:We utilized the Derwent Innovations Index platform, which is a comprehensive platform that provides access to a wide range of global patent documents and related information. We search for patent applications classified under the International Patent Classification (IPC) code C12P-007/00. This technological class is associated with the preparation of oxygen-containing organic compounds through microbial or enzymatic processes. We limited our search to patent applications filed between 2000 and 2022. Results: The study identified a total of 1,036 patent families. Among these intellectual property documents, a significant number were attributed to enzymatic solutions for second-generation ethanol production. Our results revealed that Dupont holds the most relevant patents in this area. The American multinational company has a significant number of patent applications between the years 2000 and 2013; however, there was a subsequent decline in its patent fillings. In contrast to Dupont's declining trend, the study observed an expansion in research and development efforts undertaken by European companies in recent years. Conclusion:The article suggests that the incentives undertaken by the European Union to foster the development of innovative bioproducts, and renewable energy sources are generating the intended outcomes. The increased activity and investment by European organizations in various technological fields related to biorefinery indicate a positive response to these incentives