Arkema Launches Bio-Based Performance Additives for Sustainable Coatings and Adhesives

Arkema Introduces Bio-Based Additives for Enhanced Sustainability

In a significant step toward promoting eco-friendly manufacturing, Arkema, a leader in specialty materials, has announced the production of bio-based rheology additives in Europe. The new line includes thickeners that boast up to 30% bio-based content and a reduction of up to 25% in product carbon footprints compared to traditional products. This initiative showcases Arkema's commitment to driving sustainability in the coatings and adhesives industry.

Helene Pernot, Global Sustainability Marketing Director at Coating Solutions, emphasized the importance of these bio-based specialty additives, stating, "These innovations pave the way for the next generation of sustainable coatings and adhesives products, enabling our customers to meet their sustainability goals." As consumers and industries alike prioritize reduced environmental impact, Arkema's new offerings aim to set a new standard in the market.

The bio-based acrylic thickeners, which are critical in optimizing the rheology of various applications, maintain performance standards equivalent to conventional products, thereby ensuring cost-effectiveness for consumers. Yohann Trang, Global Market Director for Construction Materials at Coating Solutions, highlighted this point, stating that the new products fulfill market demands for sustainability without compromising quality or price.

Working actively towards building sustainable solutions, Arkema’s thickeners will be marketed under the Rheotech™, Thixol™, and Viscoatex™ brands. These products are produced utilizing bio-sourced ethyl acrylate from Arkema’s acrylic monomer facility in Carling, France. The raw materials for these innovations primarily come from sustainable sources like beetroot and sugarcane, underpinning Arkema's strategic shift towards greener production methods.

The introduction of these bio-based additives not only marks a technological advancement but also aligns with Arkema's broader mission of becoming a dedicated player in Specialty Materials. Arkema has structured its operations into three segments—Adhesive Solutions, Advanced Materials, and Coating Solutions—which collectively accounted for over 90% of the Group's sales in 2024. This realignment will enable the company to better address the increasing demand for sustainable materials and solutions across various industries.

As the world grapples with pressing environmental issues, Arkema is fostering innovation while maintaining a dialogue with all stakeholders to ensure that its solutions meet the evolving needs of its customer base. The Group reported approximately €9.5 billion in sales for 2024 and operates in around 55 countries, employing 21,150 people globally.

In conclusion, Arkema's introduction of bio-based performance additives represents not only a product advancement but also a strategic commitment to sustainability in the materials sector. As industry leaders push towards greener practices, Arkema’s initiatives reflect its adaptability and forward-thinking approach in addressing contemporary challenges in the coatings and adhesives market.

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