CHICAGO — Archer Daniels Midland Co. and DuPont Industrial Biosciences, part of DowDuPont, are collaborating to develop, produce and market cellulase enzymes for operators of grain-based ethanol plants.

The cellulase enzymes assist in hydrolyzing corn fiber, which breaks down the fiber and allows more sugars to be liberated and fermented into ethanol. Ethanol from corn kernel fiber may qualify for D3 RINS under the Renewable Fuel Standard. D3 refers to cellulosic ethanol, and RINS stands for renewable identification number.

“The industry is looking increasingly at enzyme-based tools to boost yields and produce additional ethanol without having to make significant capital investments, and we look forward to working with DuPont to help deliver solutions in this space,” said Collin Benson, vice-president of bioactives for Chicago-based ADM.

Troy Wilson, global industry leader of grain processing for DuPont Industrial Biosciences, said, “We’re thrilled to add yet another significant pillar in our partnership with ADM. We are already working together in high performance renewable bio-materials. Now this agreement brings together substantial resources and capabilities in the pursuit of new innovations for grain-based biofuels.”