Together with Algo Artis, Japan’s Nippon Shokubai has developed an algorithm-based means for the production planning of superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) based on acrylic acid, and has started operations at its plant in Himeji following all the necessary validations and modifications. This is in line with its ‘TechnoAmenity for the future’ strategy, which was unveiled in April 2021 and will be extended to other products.
Life science ingredients distributor Barentz International has acquired Viachem, a distributor of life science ingredients and speciality chemicals. Based in Texas and Georgia, Viachem claims to have a unique model that combines “a dedicated market research function and digitally enabled sales and marketing capabilities”, using trained and highly specialised technical sales specialists.
Solenis has agreed to acquire the paper process chemicals business of Kolb Distribution, a unit of KLK Kolb. Terms were not disclosed.The deal includes a long-term supply agreement, in which KLK Kolb will manufacture paper process chemicals exclusively for Solenis.
This is the fourth acquisition made by Solenis since Platinum Equity acquired it last year. The two firms will operate independently until closing, which is expected to be by the end of Q1 2023, subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions.
Chemours has announced a planned $200 million investment to increase capacity and advance technology for its industry-leading Nafion ion exchange materials. The company is now evaluating potential locations in the US and Europe for the investment, in accordance with applicable regulatory frameworks.
Following on from other recent announcements in the field, Umicore has announced a 5-50, €3 billion joint venture to supply precursor and cathode material production to the European battery cell factories of PowerCo, the Volkswagen Group’s battery company. No site has yet been chosen.
This will begin in 2025 by supplying PowerCo’s factory in Salzgitter. They aim to reach 40 GWh cell/year capacity in 2026 and to quadruple that to 160 by 2030, depending on market and demand development. This would be equivalent to what is needed to power about 2.2 million full electric vehicles.
Italian CDMO and API supplier Olon has presented a two-year, €30 million plan to expand its Settimo Torinese Biotech Hub near Turin. This focuses on microbial fermentation and is claimed to have “some of the most extensive know-how” on the subject in Europe”. The plan focuses on therapeutic peptides based on Olon’s expertise in the development of rDNA peptides and proteins.
Flavours and fragrances giant Givaudan has agreed a research collaboration for the development of sustainable fragrance ingredients from renewable carbon, with US-based LanzaTech, which describes itself as a carbon capture and transformation (CCT) company. No commercial terms were disclosed.
