Phycus Biotechnologies produces sustainable, formaldehyde-free glycolic acid through precision fermentation of renewable plant materials for the cosmetics, skincare, and chemical industries.
Phycus Biotechnologies Inc. specializes in the production of sustainable, bio-based chemicals for the cosmetics and personal care industries. Their primary innovation is Purolic Acid, a high-purity glycolic acid created through precision fermentation using renewable plant-based feedstocks, such as FSC-certified wood. Unlike conventional glycolic acid produced via petrochemical processes, which often contain trace contaminants like formaldehyde, the company's fermentation-based approach delivers a formaldehyde-free, biome-friendly alternative. By leveraging synthetic biology and AI-optimized workflows, the company aims to reduce carbon footprints and provide clean, traceable ingredients for high-performance skincare applications, adhesives, and polymers.
This technology addresses growing consumer demand for clean beauty products and sustainable supply chains. By offering a formaldehyde-free ingredient, Phycus helps cosmetic formulators improve product safety for skin health and the beneficial microbiome. The company has validated its fermentation and purification processes at scale, successfully transitioning from pilot-scale experiments to industrial production. Through strategic partnerships, such as their collaboration with TeselaGen Biotechnology to optimize fermentation workflows, Phycus is scaling its capacity to serve the global market with sustainable, bio-based specialty chemicals.