Codexis launches new range of enzymes

Codexis has created its own line of cellulose enzymes, called CodeXyme, which will be used to convert biomass into sugar.

The company is currently working with partners, such as Shell, Merck and Pfizer, and plans to release commercial samples to the chemical market by the second half of 2012.

Alan Shaw, CEO of Codexis, says: ‘CodeXyme Cellulase enzymes will be transformational and enabling. Historically, bio-based processes have been suboptimal due to the limitations of commercially available enzymes. Codexis will deliver superior, customised cellulase enzymes that will enable our partners to deploy commercially viable second generation processes.’

Five months ago the company joined forces with M&G to produce sustainable detergent alcohols and will use these new enzymes to produce second generation detergent alcohols from cellulosic (non-food) biomass.

The company has produced 20,000 litres of cellulose enzymes and hit industrial-scale size manufacturing earlier this year.