OPX Biotechnologies says its strains of E. coli can be used to convert sugar to acrylic acid — a key component of paints, diapers, and adhesives — at lower costs than making it from petroleum.

The bacteria-based process produces 75 percent fewer carbon-dioxide emissions than making the same amount from oil, and a single commercial plant using the process could reduce petroleum consumption by over 500,000 barrels per year.