Catalyxx Gets €37 Million Pre-Approval To Build Biobutanol Plant In France

The plant will produce biobutanol and other alcohols. Over the past year, Catalyxx has already raised more than €18 million with support from Axon Desarrollo Andalucía (supported by the EIB and Andalusian government), Aether Chemical Investments, and the European Commission’s EIC Accelerator programme.

“This decision by the EIB is a key milestone for Catalyxx and validates our vision of transforming the chemical industry through sustainability and efficiency. This project not only demonstrates the potential of our technology, but also represents a clear commitment to the industrial future of Europe” said Joaquín ​Alarcón de la Lastra CEO of Catalyxx. “We are excited about the opportunity to advance this collaboration with the EIB and about the role we can play in the continent’s energy and ecological transition.”

Founded in 2017 by Joaquín Alarcón de la Lastra Romero, a former Abengoa executive with over 20 years of experience in bioenergy, Catalyxx is focused on developing sustainable chemicals and researching sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). Its R&D work and demo plant are based in La Rinconada, Seville.

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Catalyxx is now planning to build its first large-scale industrial plant in France, using its own patented technology. This technology turns bioethanol—made from sugar fermentation—into renewable bioalcohols like biobutanol, without using fossil fuels.

The process is both eco-friendly, with a negative carbon footprint, and cost-effective, often cheaper than fossil-based alternatives. These bioalcohols are used in everyday products like paints, resins, adhesives, and cosmetics.

The new French plant is being developed with a local partner to keep logistics efficient. A final review is set for September in Seville, and once approved, the European Investment Bank (EIB) is expected to confirm €37 million in funding. This support highlights the importance of green innovation in meeting Europe’s climate goals and Catalyxx’s potential to lead in the circular, low-carbon chemical industry.

To support its growth, Catalyxx recently raised €3 million in a round led by Axon Partners Group.

About Catalyxx

Founded in 2017 by Joaquín Alarcón de la Lastra Romero, a former Abengoa executive with over 20 years of experience in bioenergy, Catalyxx is focused on developing sustainable chemicals and researching sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). Its R&D work and demo plant are based in La Rinconada, Seville.