altM, a deep-tech materials company developing sustainable alternatives to fossil-based chemicals, launched a fully integrated biorefinery pilot plant in Bengaluru. The new facility marks a significant step forward in the company’s journey from laboratory research to pilot-scale manufacturing. With this commissioning, altM moves closer to commercialising bio-based materials designed to replace conventional petrochemical inputs across multiple industries.
From Lab Innovation to Pilot-Scale Production
The Bengaluru facility bridges the critical gap between R&D and industrial deployment. By shifting from small-batch laboratory testing to pilot-scale operations, altM can now validate production processes under real-world manufacturing conditions. This transition allows the company to demonstrate consistent product performance while preparing for future large-scale commercialisation. Importantly, the pilot plant produces industrial-grade, bio-derived materials that integrate seamlessly with existing manufacturing systems, eliminating the need for costly process changes for customers.
Capacity Designed for Scale and Performance Testing
The biorefinery operates at a capacity of 15–50 tons per annum, giving altM the flexibility to scale output while fine-tuning operational efficiency. At this stage, the company will rigorously evaluate key metrics such as throughput, yield, quality consistency, and unit economics. These insights will help optimise processes and ensure cost competitiveness before moving to full-scale production. This structured scale-up approach reduces technical risks and strengthens market readiness.
Targeting High-Impact Industrial Applications
altM is initially focusing on sectors where petrochemical dependence remains high and sustainable alternatives can create immediate value.
Materials produced at the pilot plant are currently being tested for use in:
*Cosmetics formulations
*Wood adhesives
*Construction inputs
By targeting these high-volume applications, the company aims to accelerate adoption of greener materials across mainstream industries.
Portfolio of Bio-Based Functional Materials
The facility will manufacture multiple functional materials derived from renewable feedstocks. These include cellulose-based rheology modifiers, formaldehyde-free lignin wood adhesives, and UV blockers — products that not only reduce environmental impact but also match or exceed conventional performance standards. At the same time, the integrated setup improves scalability and cost efficiency, strengthening the business case for sustainable chemistry.
Management Focused on Commercial Viability
Apoorv Garg, CEO and Co-Founder of altM, emphasised, “This pilot is about proving that bio-based materials can meet industrial performance expectations and commercial requirements at scale”. By combining innovation with manufacturability, altM aims to show that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand. As industries worldwide look to decarbonise supply chains, demand for bio-based and low-carbon materials is rising rapidly. As reported by projectstoday.com, with its integrated biorefinery pilot plant now operational, altM is positioning itself at the forefront of India’s green chemistry and sustainable materials ecosystem, paving the way for future scale-up and broader industrial adoption.
