100% bio-based succinic acid with lower environmental footprint

23-Apr-14

At Chinaplas 2014, Reverdia will demonstrate the benefits of Biosuccinium™, a succinic acid with 100% bio-based content and lower environmental footprint. Biosuccinium™ enables the production of a bio-based PBS (polybutylene succinate) with a substantially improved carbon footprint. PBS is a biodegradable polymer that can be used as a single polymer or in compounds for both durable and biodegradable applications. Other applications include polyols for polyurethanes, coating and composite resins and phthalate-free plasticizers. End products include footwear, packaging, paints and many more. According to Tristen Li, Reverdia’s NBD Manager for greater China, Biosuccinium™ is a drop-in replacement for fossil-based succinic acid in PBS. Furthermore, he explains:“Various studies have demonstrated the technical feasibility in a multitude of applications, with similar or even improved performance when compared to the typical fossil-based benchmark. Examples include improved abrasion resistance in microcellular polyurethanes and better chemical resistance in thermoplastic polyurethanes based systems.” Biosuccinium™ is produced from renewable, plant-based resources. Using a proprietary biotechnology process, feedstock is converted to Biosuccinium™, via a unique low pH yeast process, developed by Reverdia, the joint venture between DSM and Roquette. This yeast-based fermentation process ensures a consistent product quality. It is also environmentally friendly it uses non-fossil raw materials, sequesters carbon dioxide (CO2), is energy efficient, and does not produce unnecessary by-products. In December 2012 Reverdia began operations for Biosuccinium™ in Cassano Spinola, Italy, with a capacity of about 10,000 tpa, the world’s first dedicated large-scale plant for the production of succinic acid from renewable resources. With this facility up and running, Reverdia is preparing for a next phase with further expansion of its production and business opportunities towards a truly global leadership position in succinic acid.