Rice University researchers have uncovered new techniques using hungry microscopic critters to convert biofuels waste into high-value chemicals that could improve the bottom line of fuel manufacturers.

In a report published in the journal Metabolic Engineering, researchers uncover new wrinkles to a fermentation process that allows bacteria to convert glycerin — the major waste product of biodiesel production — into valuable organic acids such as succinate. Succinate is a high-demand chemical feedstock used to make nontoxic solvents used in plastics, drug and food additives.

“Biodiesel producers used to sell their leftover glycerin, but the rapid increase in biodiesel production has left them paying to get rid of it,” said lead researcher Ramon Gonzales, Rice assistant professor in chemical and biomolecular engineering.

“The new metabolic pathways we’ve discovered pave the way for new technologies to convert this waste product into high-value chemicals.”

About one pound of glycerin, also known as glycerol, is created for every 10 pounds of biodiesel produced. The National Biodiesel Board reported that U.S. companies, which are dramatically ramping up biodiesel production, churned out 450 million gallons in 2007.

Using E. coli bacteria, Rice researchers were able to tinker with fermentation conditions in order to find the right formula that allows the bacteria to turn glycerol into succinate.

“We want to use the technology as a platform for the ‘green’ production of a whole range of high-value products,” said Gonzalez.

Houston-based start-up company Glycos Biotechnologies Inc. has licensed technologies based on the Rice findings and expects to open a demonstration facility by mid-2009.