Wilfried Schmidt

Title: The Innovative Mind of Wilfried Schmidt: Revolutionizing Acetone Production

Introduction: Wilfried Schmidt, an accomplished inventor based in Gelsenkirchen-Buer, Germany, has made significant strides in the field of biochemistry. With a focus on the sustainable production of acetone, his innovative work has the potential to transform industrial processes using renewable resources.

Latest Patents: Schmidt holds a notable patent titled "Fermentative production of acetone from renewable resources by means of novel metabolic pathway." This invention details a cutting-edge process for synthesizing acetone using acetyl-coenzyme A. The approach includes three primary steps:

1. An enzymatic conversion of acetyl-CoA into acetoacetyl-CoA,

2. An enzymatic conversion of acetoacetyl-CoA into acetoacetate and CoA,

3. Decarboxylation of acetoacetate to yield acetone and carbon monoxide.

What sets this invention apart is that the CoA is not transferred to an acceptor molecule in the enzymatic step, which is entirely unprecedented for any known microbial enzyme.

Career Highlights: Wilfried Schmidt has dedicated his career to advancing chemical processes, and his work at Evonik Degussa GmbH marks a significant chapter in his professional journey. His expertise in metabolic pathways has positioned him as a key figure in the development of sustainable chemical production methods.

Collaborations: Among Schmidt's respected colleagues at Evonik Degussa GmbH are Stefan Verseck and Steffen Schaffer. Together, they form a collaborative team that strives to push the boundaries of innovation in their respective fields.

Conclusion: Wilfried Schmidt stands out as a pivotal inventor in the realm of sustainable chemical production. Through his patent on the fermentative production of acetone, he illustrates the power of innovation in addressing modern industrial challenges. His contributions not only enhance the efficiency of chemical processes but also align with global sustainability goals.