Changhua Chemical, polycarbonate ether (PCE) producer from China, commenced construction on the nation’s inaugural CO2 based polyols plant. Situated in Lianyungang, the facility will utilize technology from the UK-based company Econic. The technology replaces fossil feedstocks with captured carbon dioxide to produce polyols.
The proprietary catalyst and process developed by Econic allow manufacturers to substitute up to 30% of the fossil-based component in polyols with CO2. The approach not only enhances sustainability, but also produces high-performance polyols suitable for various applications such as foams, laminates, coatings, and elastomers, which are used in furniture, mattresses, insulation, footwear, and apparel.
The new plant in China aims to produce around 80,000 tons annually by early 2025, with plans to increase production to over 1 million tons in the coming years.
Dr. Gu, chairman and owner of Changhua Group stated, “The chemical sector in China plays a crucial role in achieving both national and global sustainability goals. At Changhua Chemical, we are proud to lead the way by introducing new sustainable polyols. Carnol polyols will aid manufacturers across various industries in developing new solutions that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and waste”.
Econic has also licensed its technology to Monument Chemical in the US and Manali in India. As reported by sustainableplastics.com, the potential applications of its carbon-to-value technology extend beyond the polyurethane market, including CO2 based surfactants.
