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Alternative hydrogenation methods and approaches to increase oil melting point
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Background

The physical properties of oils and fats depend on the composition of those oils, with one important factor being the unsaturation (fatty acid double bounds) of the oil. The more saturated fatty acids, the higher the melting point.  

 

With a liquid oil, one way to increase its melting point and stability is to hydrogenate the double bounds of fatty acids and thereby increase the saturated fatty acid amount in the mixture. 

 

However, the hydrogenation of oils and fats has several results that are undesirable. These include the formation of trans fatty acids and the use of Nickel in the process (chemical process).  

 

Therefore, a natural hydrogenation is of interest to us. However, our interest is not limited to alternative hydrogenation methods (such as enzymatic, fermentative, or electrochemical approaches).  

 

We would also be interested in alternative solutions that accomplish any of the following: 1) methods that raise the melting point of oils, 2) Change fatty acid profile to increase melting point and smoothness of the product, 3) solutions that would optimize crystallization behavior of oils or fats all while avoiding the creation of trans fats.

What we're looking for

We seek to better understand alternative hydrogenation methods that can convert unsaturated fatty acids (in triglyceride form) into saturated fatty acids (natural / non-hazardous). Natural or enzymatic hydrogenation are potential approaches, but we are interested in additional ideas or technology areas too.

Solutions of interest include:
  • Alternative hydrogenation methods (such as enzymatic, fermentative or electrochemical approaches)
  • Methods that raise the melting point of oils
  • Change fatty acid profile to increase melting point
  • Solutions that would optimize crystallization behavior of oils or fats
Our must-have requirements are:
  • More natural process than the current Ni-catalyzed hydrogenation process
  • Solution increases the melting point of oils
Our nice-to-have's are:
  • The ideal solution would be ready to implement and have costs comparable to current hydrogenation processes, but we are also open to earlier technologies.
  • Natural (organic-labeling) processes / enzymes.
What's out of scope:
  • Other metal-based catalytic processes with same reaction principles as Ni catalysis
Acceptable technology readiness levels (TRL):
Levels 1-9
What we can offer you
Eligible partnership models:
Sponsored research
Co-development
Equity investment
Supply/purchase
Licensing
Material transfer
Benefits:
Sponsored Research
Up to $100-200k for a proof of concept with additional potential partnering options in following phases
Who we are

Our global team includes more than 1,500 research, development, applications, technical services and intellectual property specialists working in more than 200 locations. Together, they provide a spectrum of services encompassing technical service, applications, development, research, intellectual asset management, and scientific and regulatory affairs.

 Learn more
Reviewers
DL
Dimitris Lykomitros
Technology Scout
SH
Sonia Henry
KM Lead
FB
Falk Brüse
principal scientist EOE PPD
RD
Rob Dekker
Product Architect
Q&A with Cargill

The Q&A is now closed.

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Q.
Will there be a Q&A session prior to the closing date?
3
A.
Hi Abe, it is not forseen to have a Q&A session, but feel free to ask questions as you have them. regards Falk
FB
Falk Brüse, principal scientist EOE PPD, Cargill
March 15, 2024
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Q.
Are overhead/indirect cost charges included?
BI
Brian Ibsen, Corporate Relations, University at Buffalo, State University of New York
March 4, 2024
1
A.
Hi Brian, Not sure what exactly is meant with your question, but if we discuss on content of the idea first, and then negotiate on the cooperation terms, we certainly find a solutions / answer. regards Falk
FB
Falk Brüse, principal scientist EOE PPD, Cargill
March 15, 2024
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