KATZEN International, Inc., a U.S. pioneer in bioethanol technology and engineering, announced today its selection by Be8 S.A. to supply process technology and design for the second phase of Be8’s flagship wheat-based ethanol facility in Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul. Scheduled for launch in late 2026, the plant will integrate the production of high-value wheat gluten, as well as ethanol and DDGs (Distiller’s Dried Grains with Solubles).
The unit will process 525,000 tons of winter cereals annually, including wheat, triticale, and corn, to produce 210 million liters of ethanol, 153,000 tons of DDGS and 27,000 tons of vital gluten. The project will be executed using KATZEN’s proprietary technology through its subsidiary, KATZEN Brasil, which will oversee engineering design, construction coordination, and plant commissioning.
Currently, ethanol demand in Rio Grande do Sul is entirely met by imports from other Brazilian states. The development of this plant is a major step toward reducing the state’s reliance on external fuel sources. Additionally, Brazil imports about US$40 million worth of vital gluten annually, mainly from Europe, according to the Brazilian Wheat Industry Association (Abitrigo). The Be8 facility is expected to meet domestic demand and generate surplus for export, enhancing Brazil’s role in the global gluten market.
During construction, the project is projected to generate over 1,000 direct and indirect jobs, with 175 permanent positions once operational. It will also support the animal protein sector through increased DDGS production and contribute to advancements in wheat-to-ethanol genetic research, ultimately boosting income for farmers growing winter cereals in the region.
“This partnership reflects our dedication to delivering innovative, high-efficiency solutions for grain-based biofuels, both in Brazil and globally,” said Dave Lococo, CEO of KATZEN. “We are proud to support Be8’s forward-looking vision with our technology, which enhances both economic and environmental outcomes.”
Be8 President Erasmo Carlos Battistella highlighted the strategic nature of the collaboration: “We are progressing with the ethanol plant project by aligning with key partners who share our goals for innovation and development. We’re pleased to move forward with KATZEN’s expertise as we prepare for operations in 2026.”
KATZEN’s process technology currently supports 60% of Brazil’s grain ethanol production and half of Europe’s ethanol market. Notable projects include a 400-million-liter wheat-based ethanol facility in the United Kingdom and a 200-million-liter ethanol and gluten production plant in Austria. The Be8 project marks a significant step in Brazil’s strategy to diversify biofuel sources beyond sugarcane, transforming underutilized crops into valuable national assets.
[…] Source : Chinimandi […]