Technology

MetGen integration with NewEnergyBlue will create full array of biochemicals refined from agricultural waste

Published

2 months ago

November 18, 2024

LANCASTER, Pa. and KAARINA, Finland, Nov. 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — NewEnergyBlue, the clean-technology designer of biomass refineries that turn agricultural waste into highly decarbonized biofuels and biochemicals, and MetGen, the Finnish pioneer in advanced enzymes and lignin fractionization, today began integrating their renewable technologies and business units to vigorously compete with fossil-carbon products not just environmentally but economically.

“NewEnergyBlue’s biomass conversion technologies, augmented by MetGen’s capabilities, can create a broader array of higher-value, lower-carbon biochemicals without wasting a molecule,” says Alex Michine, founder of MetGen. “We envision this partnership delivering specific end-to-end solutions from raw material to finished product that will attract a wellspring of capital investment to build out biomass refining projects around the world.”

NewEnergyBlue’s first U.S. biomass refinery is expected to begin operations in 2027 in Mason City, Iowa. By converting locally-sourced corn stalks left behind during the annual grain harvest, New Energy Freedom can produce 21 million gallons of second-generation biofuel and 150,000 tons of clean lignin.

“We know how to break down biomass into clean sugars and clean lignin—the foundation of all plants,” says Thomas Corle, Chairman and CEO of NewEnergyBlue. “MetGen has spent 18 years developing enzymes that can do it more economically. And lignin fraction technology that can be scaled up to expand high-value markets for us.”

About half of New Energy Freedom’s lignin could become a solid that asphalt producers use as a natural binder, replacing oil-based bitumen in road paving. The other half would be liquids: high-performance phenols for sports equipment like Nike, toys like Lego, and fire-resistant construction materials; eco-friendly polyols for strong yet lightweight insulation foams; and other fractions for lighter, stronger weather-shielded cardboard that companies like Amazon might use for tape-free, moisture-resistant packaging.

“We’re very excited by a carbon-neutral platform converting our lignin stream into a diverse range of bio-products that are competitively priced against oil-derived products,” says Corle. “This significantly enhances revenues and profit to the biomass refinery operations.”

Beyond the financial are game-changing environment benefits. MetGen’s lignin-based products reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90% compared to burning lignin for energy. This aligns with global climate targets and further underscores the partners’ commitment to sustainable industry transformation.

“While we scale up MetGen conversion technology at the Freedom refinery, the integration also brings new opportunities for Finland as a strategic hub,” say Matti Heikkila, who heads up MetGen operations. “We’re planning a commercial lignin-to-chemicals project next door to our Kaarina laboratories for early 2026.”

The lignin will come from Meliora Bio, a Danish refinery processing wheat straw using Inbicon bioconversion technology. MetGen has tested the lignin and found it “highly suitable for our separation technologies.” MetGen intends to explore alternate feedstocks, such a black liquor, and develop new high-value products with a strong environmental advantages. “We’re just getting started—like the oil industry in the past century,” says Heikkila.

After years of helping develop Inbicon technology, NewEnergyBlue recently purchased it from Ørsted. Over the next five years, plans call for building four additional American refineries that fully incorporate Inbicon and MetGen technologies. “For the Midwest, it means good construction and manufacturing jobs, a second income for corn farmers, and rural revitalization,” Corle says.

In pulp-and-paper regions, Corle sees new opportunities for lignin and pulp refining that could revive a struggling industry. Internationally, interest already runs high for licensing the company’s tech and business platform to refine sugar bagasse, corn stalks, wheat and other grain straws, and energy grasses like miscanthus. “Adding MetGen technologies lets us tell a powerful financial and climate story.”

Media Contact:
Roger Moore
rogermoore@newenergyblue.com
717-224-0245

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Technology

LB Technology Partners with Motorq to Integrate OEM Data Services

Published

57 minutes ago

January 13, 2025

MEMPHIS, Tenn., Jan. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — LB Technology, a leader in fleet management and telematics solutions, is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with Motorq, a leading connected vehicle data platform, to integrate OEM data services into LB Technology’s suite of fleet solutions. This collaboration enhances LB Technology’s ability to provide real-time insights, streamline operations, and offer data-driven decision-making capabilities to its clients using factory-installed OEM telematics hardware from some of the world’s leading automakers, including General Motors, Ford, Toyota, Stellantis, Volkswagen, Volvo, BMW and more.

Integrating Motorq’s cutting-edge OEM data services will enable LB Technology to deliver richer, more accurate vehicle data, including diagnostics, driver behavior analytics, and predictive maintenance insights across many different vehicle manufacturers to deliver actionable insights on one single platform without needing external devices.

“Integrating Motorq’s OEM data services into our platform represents a significant step forward in our mission to deliver smarter, more efficient solutions on one single platform for fleet operators,” said Matt Courts, CTO of LB Technology. “This partnership empowers our customers with the tools and data they need to operate more safely, cost-effectively, and sustainably. We are excited about the possibilities this collaboration brings.”

“We’re thrilled to partner with LB Technology, a company that shares our vision of harnessing data to drive smarter fleet management,” said Matt Naiman, Senior Vice President of Sales at Motorq. “Our OEM data services bring unparalleled accuracy and depth, providing LB Technology’s customers with the insights they need to optimize their operations and achieve their goals.”

The partnership between LB Technology and Motorq is poised to set a new standard in fleet management. It will enable businesses to unlock the full potential of mixed fleet-connected vehicle data while enhancing safety, efficiency, and productivity.

For more information about this partnership and its benefits, please visit www.fleettrack.com.

About LB Technology
LB Technology is a leading provider of fleet management solutions, delivering cutting-edge telematics technology and data-driven insights to businesses worldwide. By leveraging innovative tools and expertise, LB Technology empowers fleet operators to improve safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

About Motorq
Motorq is a leading connected vehicle data platform that helps businesses unlock the power of OEM data to optimize fleet performance and operations. With a focus on accuracy, security, and actionable insights, Motorq is revolutionizing how organizations manage their fleets.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lb-technology-partners-with-motorq-to-integrate-oem-data-services-302349476.html

SOURCE LB Technology, Inc.

Technology

InventHelp Inventor Develops New Set of Audio Accessories (BDH-351)

Published

57 minutes ago

January 13, 2025

PITTSBURGH, Jan. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — “I wanted to create a way to use either earphones or open-air speakers with one accessory,” said an inventor, from Deridder, La., “so I invented the RACHAL – JOHNSON INVENTION. My design increases options when listening to music or other digital content.”

The patent-pending invention provides a new set of accessories for digital music/media consumers. In doing so, it allows for wireless earphone and speaker use. As a result, it increases convenience. It also offers uninterrupted listening, even when charging the earphones. The invention features a versatile design that is easy to use so it is ideal for the general population. Additionally, a prototype is available.

The original design was submitted to the National sales office of InventHelp. It is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, write Dept. 23-BDH-351, InventHelp, 100 Beecham Drive, Suite 110, Pittsburgh, PA 15205-9801, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. Learn more about InventHelp’s Invention Submission Services at http://www.InventHelp.com.

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SOURCE InventHelp

Technology

Proper Good, Inc. Successfully Secures New Funding to Fuel Growth

Published

57 minutes ago

January 13, 2025

AUSTIN, Texas, Jan. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Proper Good, Inc., a leader in ready-to-eat meal solutions, announced today that it successfully secured additional funding in the fourth quarter of 2024 to support the expansion of its 19 affordable meal options, which include oats, soups, and pastas. This milestone underscores the company’s ongoing growth and dedication to providing accessible, ready-made meal choices to a broader audience.

Available in thousands of Walmart locations for under $5 each, Proper Good meals are designed to make healthy and convenient eating accessible to all. The funding round was primarily backed by internal investors and board members, with a strategic focus on driving retail growth and introducing Proper Good to new households in 2025.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to have the incredible backing of our investors as we deepen our retail partnerships,” said Christopher Jane, Co-Founder & CEO of Proper Good. “This support empowers us to bring an even wider variety of delicious, easy meals to Walmart shelves in 2025—making mealtime a breeze for everyone!”

These funds will be strategically deployed to accelerate product development, expand operations, and enhance customer offerings, ensuring Proper Good continues to innovate and lead in the ready-to-eat food space

With a proven track record, innovative solutions, and visionary leadership, Proper Good has garnered significant interest from the investment community. The company remains dedicated to making wholesome, affordable, and convenient meals a staple for households across the nation.

For more information about Proper Good, Inc or to inquire about this offering, please contact:

Media Contact
Jenelle Hamilton PR
Jenelle Hamilton
388645@email4pr.com
+1 646.421.9139

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SOURCE Proper Good Inc.