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What's Your Problem?

A Better Way to Make the Chemicals in Everything

Aug 29, 2024
Sean Hunt, co-founder and CTO of Solugen, dives into sustainable chemical production without fossil fuels. He shares how his company innovates by using corn syrup for eco-friendly solutions, transforming the industry. The discussion highlights operational challenges and the push for specialty chemicals amidst market shifts. Hunt reveals insights on the competitive landscape and the impact of a new executive order promoting bio-manufactured chemicals. Additionally, he touches on the intriguing engineering behind customizing products for regional tastes.
39:24

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Solugen innovatively produces industrial chemicals from corn syrup, aiming to transform the chemical industry towards sustainable methods and reduce fossil fuel dependency.
  • The serendipitous collaboration between co-founders at a poker table highlights how unexpected conversations can spark groundbreaking ideas in sustainable chemical production.

Deep dives

The Chemical Transition

Solugen focuses on creating industrial chemicals using sustainable methods, specifically by deriving them from corn syrup rather than fossil fuels. This approach represents a significant shift in the chemical industry, termed the chemical transition, which mirrors the broader move away from fossil fuels in energy sourcing. This strategy not only aims to reduce the environmental impact of chemical production but also seeks to meet the growing demand for eco-friendly products. The company encases its vision in making petrochemical-like products sustainably, aiming to ultimately reform the way chemical manufacturing is perceived and practiced.

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