BASF, Cargill and Novozymes sign an agreement to develop technologies to produce acrylic acid … a super absorbent material primarily used in baby diapers … from renewable raw materials. Usually, the materials are made of crude oil products.
“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.
“BASF and Cargill are global leaders in their industries and we are very excited to partner with them,” says Novozymes CEO Steen Riisgaard. “By offering bio-based alternatives to fossil-based products we will take a big step towards a more sustainable economy.”
“Cargill is pleased to bring its global expertise in sourcing renewable feedstocks and large-scale fermentation to this collaborative project”, said Chris Mallett, Cargill Corporate Vice President of research and development.
The global market for acrylic acid is estimated to be more than $11 billion annually.