BASF, Cargill and Novozymes in biotech advance

London – BASF, Cargill and Novozymes have signed an agreement to develop technologies to produce acrylic acid from renewable raw materials. The chemical feedstock is currently produced by the oxidation of propylene derived from crude oil.

Novozymes and Cargill have been jointly seeking to develop microorganisms that can efficiently convert renewable feedstock into 3-hydroxypropionic acid (3-HP) – a precursor to acrylic acid. BASF has now joined the collaboration to develop the process for conversion of 3-HP into acrylic acid.

The cooperation combines BASF’s global market strength and innovation capabilities with the know-how and competencies of two global leaders in their respective industry segments, said Michael Heinz, a board director of BASF SE.

BASF is the world´s largest producer of acrylic acid and has substantial capabilities in its production and downstream processing. The company plans initially to use the bio-based acrylic acid to manufacture superabsorbent polymers.

Novozymes, meanwhile, claims to be the world-leader in industrial enzymes. It has years of experience with developing technologies for bio-based production of chemicals used in plastics and ingredients.

Acrylic acid is a high-volume chemical that feeds into a broad range of products. One of the main applications is in the manufacture of superabsorbent polymers that can soak up large amounts of liquid and are used mainly in baby diapers and other hygiene products.

Acrylic acid is also used in adhesive raw materials and coatings. The annual global market volume of acrylic acid is around 4.5 million tonnes with a value of $11 billion at the end of 2011. The market has been growing at a rate of 4% per year.