Bio‐based adipic acid from renewable oils

Abstract Adipic acid (hexanedioic acid, C 6 H 10 O 4 ) is a high‐volume dicarboxylic acid used as a chemical intermediate in the commercial manufacture of nylon 6,6, thermoplastic polyurethane resins, plasticizers, adhesives and synthetic lubricants, with an estimated global market worth approximately $6.3 billion. We report here the development of a robust industrial yeast strain and fermentation process for production of bio‐based adipic acid at high yield and selectivity from any vegetable oil, regardless of its fatty acid composition. Bio‐based adipic acid could alleviate many of the drawbacks associated with adipic acid produced from petrochemical sources and offer a sustainable alternative to benzene price swings as well as a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.