Kemira and IFF have decided to relocate the manufacturing facility of their Alpha Bio joint venture from Kotka to Hanko, Finland. The move marks a significant development in the companies’ strategy to commercialize renewable biobased materials and expand sustainable production capabilities. The partners initially announced the project in 2025, with plans to establish the facility at IFF’s biorefinery in Kotka. However, they have now selected IFF’s Hanko site as the preferred location for the investment.
Joint Venture Continues Focus on Sustainable Materials
Alpha Bio operates as a 50-50 joint venture between Kemira and IFF and focuses on producing renewable biobased materials using IFF’s proprietary Designed Enzymatic Biomaterial (DEB) technology. The technology utilizes plant-based sugars to manufacture high-performance biomaterials that can replace fossil-derived polymers across several industrial applications. Kemira retains exclusive global commercialization rights for DEB-based materials in paper, board, and water treatment markets.
Project Timeline Extended
Alongside the site relocation, the companies have revised the project timeline. Commercial production, which was originally scheduled to begin in late 2027, is now expected to start in 2029. Despite the delay, both companies remain committed to scaling up sustainable material production and meeting growing market demand for renewable alternatives. The project represents an investment of approximately EUR 130 million.
Technology Supports Circular Economy Goals
The Alpha Bio facility will leverage DEB technology to convert plant-based feedstocks into advanced biopolymers for industrial use. These materials offer enhanced purity, consistency, and performance while reducing dependence on conventional fossil-based products. Consequently, the project aligns with broader industry efforts to advance sustainability and support circular economy objectives.
Industry Commitment Remains Strong
Furthermore, the relocation highlights the partners’ long-term commitment to renewable innovation. Kemira and IFF have collaborated on DEB technology since 2020, steadily advancing the platform from development to commercial-scale production.
As per the Chemanalyst, the chemical industry continues to accelerate investments in sustainable and low-carbon technologies, reflecting growing demand for environmentally responsible manufacturing solutions. In this context, the Alpha Bio project represents another important step toward expanding the availability of renewable materials for industrial applications.
Supporting Future Market Demand
Looking ahead, the Hanko facility will play a key role in supplying biobased materials to multiple sectors, including paper packaging, coatings, and water treatment. Additionally, the project is expected to strengthen Finland’s position as a hub for sustainable industrial innovation while supporting the transition toward renewable and resource-efficient manufacturing.
