Enzyme Production Using an Extremophilic Biocatalyst

Bio-detergents are useful in many markets because they contain enzymes that can break down proteins and in turn enhance stain removal. However, many of these enzymes deactivate at high temperatures so sterilization and stain removal must be done in two separate processes. This process produces extremozymes, enzymes derived from extremophilic microorganisms that have optimal activity and stability at harsh conditions, to be used in bio-detergents. The thermostable characteristics of this enzyme allow it to accomplish high levels of protein breakdown at temperatures conducive to sterilization. It is expected that this characteristic provides a 15% price premium over the leading incumbant. The extremophilic biocatalyst used for this process is Natronomonas pharaonis and the selected enzyme has optimal activity at 60℃ and pH 10.0. The target production rate is 4,500 MT per year with the final product being 87% and selling for $36.00/kg. According to a 10-year profitability analysis, the predicted IRR is 15%. In 2021 the Net Present Value will be $880,900. In the third year of production the ROI will be 17.36%.