The development of sustainable biofuel took a step forward as Royal Dutch Shell plc expanded its collaboration with Codexis Inc. to develop new super enzymes to convert biomass to fuel.

The new agreement covers five years of research collaboration and includes Shell making an equity investment in Codexis and taking a seat on the company’s board. Research will focus on adapting enzymes to improve the conversion of a range of raw materials into high-performance fuels. It will assist Shell in developing the next generation of biofuels as it explores a number of non-food bio materials, new conversion processes and alternative fuel products.

Codexis scientists create super enzymes capable of outperforming naturally occurring varieties. The company has successfully applied this pioneering technology to improve manufacturing processes for leading pharmaceutical companies, including Pfizer and Merck. The company has worked with Shell on biofuels since November 2006 and positive early results, including achievement of milestones ahead of schedule, have led to this new agreement and the broader collaboration announced today.

“Breaking down and converting alternative, non-food bio material into high quality fuels for transport is complex”, said Dr Graeme Sweeney, Shell Executive Vice President Future Fuels and C02. “Processing efficiently at scale, in terms of both cost and C02 production, is challenging. This exciting research work into new powerful enzymes for more efficient conversion and better biofuels is part of Shell accelerating its drive to make next-generation biofuels a commercial reality.”

“Codexis’ proven biocatalytic technology provides a powerful discovery pathway for development of next generation biofuels from renewable resources”, said Alan Shaw, Ph.D., Codexis President and Chief Executive Officer. “In the first year of our collaboration, we have demonstrated the ability to solve complex technical challenges critical to successful biofuels development and commercialization. We look forward to continuing our work with Shell to bring clean, renewable liquid transportation fuels to the marketplace.”

Tags: Codexis Inc., Royal Dutch Shell plc