POET-DSM Advanced Biofuels

POET-DSM Advanced Biofuels was a joint venture between US-based POET and Netherlands-based Royal DSM, established to scale the production of cellulosic ethanol. The company utilized advanced biotechnology, including proprietary enzymes and yeast, to convert non-edible corn residue into biofuel. Their primary asset was 'Project Liberty,' a commercial-scale plant located in Emmetsburg, Iowa, which was designed to process 770 tons of corn stover per day. The venture represented a significant milestone in industrial biotechnology by demonstrating the conversion of agricultural waste into renewable energy at scale. In 2021, POET acquired DSM's interest in the venture, fully integrating the technology and operations into its own business.