Glycerol to 1,3-Propanediol Through Anaerobic Fermentation

1,3-Propanediol (1,3-PDO) is a common building block for some of the most widely used polymers and composite materials. It can be used to make adhesives, sealants, laminates, coatings, paints, perfumes, fragrances, personal care products, and laboratory-scale chemicals. Due to the increase in biodiesel production, glycerol-a byproduct of the process-is available in excess. This excess has led to a significant drop in the price for glycerol. Our senior design group evaluated the economic viability of the production of 1,3-PDO using the fermentation of glycerol by Klebsiella pneumoniae on an industrial scale. We also looked at the environmental and social impacts of this process.