Computational Biorefining: Optimizing Biomass Utilization from Feedstock to Product

Dr.-Ing. Laura König-Mattern
Group Leader for Computational Biorefining,
Center for the Transformation of Chemistry,
Leuna

Computational Biorefining: Optimizing Biomass Utilization from Feedstock to Product

From detergents and textiles to personal care – almost all consumer products depend on molecules supplied by the chemical industry. As fossil feedstocks decline and climate targets tighten, the sector must transition toward defossilized, circular production pathways. Biomass will play a key role in providing the renewable carbon needed for this transformation.

In my upcoming talk, I will introduce computational biorefining, a framework that combines process optimization and molecular design to accelerate the shift toward bio-based chemical production. Since biorefineries are central to efficient biomass use, we improve these processes through advanced process modelling and data-driven solvent selection for biomass fractionation. These intermediates serve as versatile molecular building blocks for sustainable production of chemicals and materials.

On these building blocks, we apply computer-aided molecular design and machine-learning methods to create bio-based, biodegradable chemicals that meet industrial performance requirements and align with a circular economy. This approach aims to accelerate the shift toward resource-efficient biomass utilization from feedstock to product.