2nd Project Progress Meeting

On March 10, 2026, the 2nd Project Progress Meeting was held in a hybrid format. During the meeting, participants reviewed progress under Outputs 1 to 3 and exchanged views on equipment shipment plans, future facility development, and preparations for the next Joint Coordinating Committee (JCC) meeting.

The meeting highlighted progress in the selection of target biomass resources in Thailand, as well as in pretreatment, fractionation, and catalytic conversion research. Under Output 1, biomass residues from rice, sugarcane, and oil palm were examined, and oil palm empty fruit bunches (EFB) were identified as a particularly promising candidate for near-term practical application. Under Output 2, research progress on lignin fractionation and recovery was reported. Under Output 3, participants shared updates on catalytic conversion research aimed at transforming lignin-derived compounds, sugars, lipids, and other feedstocks into high-value chemicals and bio-hydrocarbons.

The meeting also included an update on the shipment schedule for equipment from Japan to Thailand. Participants confirmed that coordination would continue toward installation at Chulalongkorn University by the end of 2026. In addition, looking ahead to Phase 2, scheduled to begin in February 2027, discussions were held on additional equipment required for larger-scale pretreatment, fractionation, and catalytic conversion, as well as on potential collaboration with SCG Chemicals Public Company Limited (SCGC).

The project will continue to advance research and development toward the high-value utilization of waste biomass and its sustainable social implementation through close collaboration among Japanese and Thai researchers and related organizations.