Among the technology advances profiled in this month’s Chementator section are these: A pulp bleachin enzyme; A catalyst to improve biomass gasification; An antiviral, antimicrobial molding compound An extruder that continuosly extracts components using supercritical CO2; A wood adhesive made from bacteria from a cow’s stomach A better way to filter fragile materials.

Foam control in fermentation processes While chemical defoamers are ideal for preventing the formation of unwanted foam, mechanical systems can help process operators cope with unwanted foam through a combination of gentle foam destruction and foam recycling.

A maintenance road map The successful pursuit of stepwise improvements in plant operation and maintenance, and asset utilization, requires rigorous planning and analysis.