Godavari Biorefineries Limited (GBL), one of India’s largest and most prominent producers of ethanol and a leader in manufacturing ethanol-based chemicals, has entered into a licensing agreement with Catalyxx Inc. on December 1, 2024. This strategic collaboration focuses on the conversion of ethanol into biobutanol and other higher alcohols using Catalyxx’s proprietary technology. The move highlights GBL’s continuous efforts to innovate and expand its product offerings, particularly in the bio-chemicals sector.

The agreement outlines the terms of the licensing arrangement, with GBL agreeing to pay a license fee of USD 1,931,850. In addition to the license fee, GBL will also pay Catalyxx a royalty based on the gross sales of the licensed products manufactured at the new facility. The deal also includes a special provision for first technology adopters, adding further value to the partnership. This arrangement not only secures GBL access to Catalyxx's advanced technology but also positions the company to be a leader in the production of biobutanol and other sustainable higher alcohols.

Under the terms of the agreement, Catalyxx grants GBL an exclusive license to use its intellectual property (IP) for manufacturing the licensed products in a specified manufacturing region. The scope of use is confined to the designated field of application, ensuring that the technology is utilized efficiently and effectively. Additionally, GBL has secured the right to market and sell the licensed products worldwide. However, this right does not extend to sublicensing the technology, ensuring that Catalyxx retains control over its proprietary methods.

The rationale behind the agreement is to allow GBL to construct a chemical facility that will use the licensed technology to produce up to 30,000 metric tons of biobutanol and other higher alcohols annually. This new facility represents a significant step in GBL's strategy to expand its operations and leverage innovative technologies to meet growing demand for sustainable chemicals. In a recent conference call to discuss GBL’s financial performance for the second quarter ending September 30, 2024, Samir Somaiya, Chairman and Managing Director of GBL, revealed that the company is also exploring the potential for grain-based ethanol production. This exploration aligns with GBL’s overarching commitment to sustainability and innovation in the biofuels and chemicals sectors.

Somaiya remarked, “This partnership with Catalyxx reflects our commitment to advancing sustainable chemistry and underscores our leadership in the bio-chemicals sector. We are excited to embark on this journey and look forward to the positive impact this project will have on our business, the environment, and the communities we serve.” His words highlight the importance of the partnership not only for GBL’s business growth but also for its environmental and social objectives.

Catalyxx's CEO, Joaquín Alarcón, emphasized the long-term significance of the agreement, stating, “This agreement is the culmination of years of rigorous development and innovation, reflecting our unwavering commitment to advancing sustainable chemistry. Our strategic partnership with Godavari Biorefineries, a company with an exceptional track record in sustainability, demonstrates the global recognition of our technology’s impact and sets the foundation for the next phase of Catalyxx’s growth.” Alarcón further stressed that the partnership represents a milestone in the chemical industry’s transition toward more sustainable solutions.

Together, the two companies are paving the way for a greener future in the chemical industry, fostering innovation and sustainability in the production of bio-based chemicals. This collaboration not only strengthens both companies’ market positions but also aligns with global efforts to reduce the environmental impact of chemical production and contribute to a more sustainable global economy.