Products & Markets

Products & Markets

Platform Chemicals

Biomass can be used to produce foundational, renewable molecules that replace fossil fuels as the chemical starting points for everyday products.

A view out from an airplane passenger window.

Citramalate

Citramalate is a platform chemical derived from biomass crops that is used to produce methyl methacrylate, a key ingredient in plastics like Plexiglas. Its end uses range from windows and automotive parts to adhesives, coatings, paints, and sealants.

A stack of new diapers among other personal care products.

3-Hydroxypropionic Acid (3HP)

3HP is a platform chemical derived from biomass crops that is used to create high-value products, including bioplastics, acrylic acid, and malonic acid. Its end uses range from superabsorbent diapers and personal care products to paints, coatings, and industrial adhesives.

A tube of purple-red pigment sits in a glass beaker on a scientific lab bench.

Anthocyanins

Water-soluble pigments extracted from miscanthus for use as natural dyes. These plant-based colorants offer renewable alternatives for textiles and other applications.

Energy

Biomass can be burned directly for heat or converted to liquid and gaseous fuels through various bioprocessing methods.

An airplane flies through a clear blue sky, as seen from below.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

High-yield miscanthus biomass makes it a strong candidate for sustainable aviation fuel. Its perennial root system stores carbon while supporting low-carbon fuel pathways.

High-energy composite pellets being used for heat.

Compressed Miscanthus

Compressed miscanthus can be used alone or in high-energy composite pellets for renewable heat and power.

Packaging

Biomass-based biodegradable packaging offers sustainable alternatives to conventional petroleum-based plastics.

A variety of compostable cups, forks, spoons, and takeout containers.

Compostable Packaging

Commercially compostable molded-fiber packaging made from regenerative grasses, including miscanthus. Durable trays, plates, and clamshells replace plastic and return to soil.

A stack of fiberboard.

Composite Fiberboard

Sustainable composite fiberboards made from natural fibers and recycled materials. Plant-based inputs create durable panels that can replace traditional wood products.

A close up image of a sheet of blank miscanthus paper layered over another blank sheet of paper.

Miscanthus Paper

Commercial paper stock made with miscanthus fibers. Reduces reliance on wood pulp while delivering a high-quality paper with visible natural fiber.

A group of cows eat from a compostable barrel.

Bio-Barrels

Bio-based livestock feed barrels designed to replace steel or plastic in livestock feeding systems. Renewable fiber containers naturally biodegrade as livestock consume the supplement.

Animal Care

Biomass-based animal feed and other care products offer healthy & sustainable alternatives to standard products.

A golden retriever puppy eats dry food from a bowl.

Dog Food

Dog food formulations using miscanthus fiber improve stool consistency and digestibility. The ingredient supports growing demand for natural, sustainable functional fibers.

An orange short-haired cat eating food from a reflective bowl.

Cat Food

Miscanthus fiber supports digestive regularity and stool quality in cats by providing a natural, functional fiber source. Research and commercial formulations show benefits similar to those marketed in high-fiber digestive products.

Specialty Animal Nutrition

Specialty Animal Nutrition

Miscanthus provides a renewable source of functional fiber for animal nutrition products. Companies such as Balchem use advanced processing and spray-drying technologies to incorporate biomass-derived ingredients into value-added feed and animal health applications.

Animal Bedding

Animal Bedding

Highly absorbent, low-dust miscanthus bedding for pets, poultry, and livestock. With the U.S. poultry sector using 2.9M+ tons annually, miscanthus offers a scalable, sustainable alternative.

A group of cows eat from a compostable barrel.

Bio-Barrels

Bio-based livestock feed barrels designed to replace steel or plastic in livestock feeding systems. Renewable fiber containers naturally biodegrade as livestock consume the supplement.

A dog chews on a large treat shaped like a bone.

Pet Treats

Miscanthus-based pet treats provide clean-label, non-GMO fiber for gut health. They deliver prebiotic and digestive benefits often found in multi-benefit supplements.

Biomass Innovation Hub
1101 W. Peabody, Suite 350 (NSRC)
Urbana, IL 61801
217-333-4178
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