Novonesis and thyssenkrupp Uhde Unveil Enzymatic Fat-Splitting Process to Boost Efficiency and Sustainability in Oleochemicals

Novonesis and thyssenkrupp Uhde Unveil Enzymatic Fat-Splitting Process to Boost Efficiency and Sustainability in Oleochemicals

(IN BRIEF) Novonesis has teamed up with thyssenkrupp Uhde to launch a revolutionary enzymatic fat-splitting process using the Lipura® Split enzyme, replacing traditional high-pressure thermal methods. By leveraging biosolutions at lower temperatures and atmospheric pressure, this method reduces energy and water consumption while improving yield and reducing CAPEX by up to 60%. A pilot plant has been developed to validate real-world performance, enabling producers to scale efficiently from 50 tons per day. As market demands shift and sustainability expectations rise, this adaptable, low-investment solution offers oleochemical producers a more flexible, profitable, and environmentally responsible pathway forward. Leaders from both companies emphasize the partnership’s role in accelerating sustainable innovation in the sector.

(PRESS RELEASE) COPENHAGEN, 18-Nov-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Novonesis has announced a strategic partnership with German chemical technology leader thyssenkrupp Uhde to transform fatty acid production through biosolutions. The collaboration introduces an innovative enzymatic fat-splitting process powered by Novonesis’ Lipura® Split enzyme, marking a shift from conventional thermal methods toward a more sustainable and cost-efficient model for the oleochemical industry.

Traditionally, fatty acid producers have been challenged by high capital expenditure (CAPEX) and lengthy lead times associated with thermal fat-splitting towers, operating at 260°C and 60 bar pressure. However, Novonesis and thyssenkrupp Uhde’s joint process—operating at a gentler 70°C under atmospheric pressure—promises significant operational advantages: reduced energy consumption, greater yield, and enhanced production flexibility.

A pivotal component of this initiative is a dedicated pilot plant designed to validate the new process under industrial conditions. This facility offers a crucial step between laboratory development and full-scale plant deployment, giving manufacturers the confidence to adopt enzymatic methods without operational setbacks.

Nadja Håkansson, COO at thyssenkrupp Decarbon Technologies and CEO at thyssenkrupp Uhde, highlighted the broader impact of the partnership:
“Our collaboration with Novonesis showcases the potential of joint innovation in driving sustainable progress. This breakthrough gives customers the dual benefit of environmental gains and economic performance.”

The adaptability of the Lipura® Split process is another cornerstone of its value proposition. Producers can scale production from as low as 50 tons per day, integrate the system into existing facilities, and potentially reduce CAPEX by up to 60%, offering swifter returns and responses to market shifts.

Hans Ole-Klingenberg, Vice President of Global Marketing for Household & Industrial Biosolutions at Novonesis, added:
“With this collaboration, we simplify the journey from conventional to enzymatic fat splitting. Producers gain agility, increased profitability, and a pathway toward a more sustainable, resilient future for oleochemicals.”

Key benefits of the enzymatic fat-splitting process include up to 40% lower energy use, 40% reduced water consumption, and up to 2% yield improvement, making it a compelling option for manufacturers aiming to balance performance with sustainability.

Learn more about the Novonesis-Uhde solution here.

Media Contact:

Emma Ulrikke Ljung
Communication Specialist
media-relations@novozymes.com
+45 30 77 23 64

SOURCE: Novozymes A/S