BASF, Cargill and Novozymes target commercial bio-based acrylic acid process

Key raw material for the production of bio-based superabsorbents for baby diapers

21-Aug-2012 - Germany

BASF, Cargill and Novozymes have signed an agreement to develop technologies to produce acrylic acid from renewable raw materials.

Presently, acrylic acid is produced by the oxidation of propylene derived from the refining of crude oil. BASF, Cargill and Novozymes will develop bio-based technologies to produce acrylic acid from renewable feedstocks.

“The cooperation combines BASF’s global market strength and innovation power with the excellent know-how and competencies of Novozymes and Cargill who are global leaders in their respective industry segments. Together we are uniquely positioned to more sustainably meet market and society needs”, said Michael Heinz, Member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE.

New milestone towards commercialization

Novozymes and Cargill have collaborated on renewable acrylic acid technology since 2008. Both companies have worked to develop microorganisms that can efficiently convert renewable feedstock into 3-hydroxypropionic acid (3-HP), which is one possible chemical precursor to acrylic acid. BASF has now joined the collaboration to develop the process for conversion of 3-HP into acrylic acid.

The three companies bring complementary knowledge to the project. Novozymes, the world-leader in industrial enzymes, has years of experience with developing technologies for bio-based production of chemicals used in plastics, ingredients, etc.

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