Global specialty chemicals player Nouryon introduced FinnFix® PB MAX, the cleaning industry’s first carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) with a 100% renewable carbon index score, helping detergent manufacturers significantly lower product carbon footprints without sacrificing performance. With sustainability now a top priority for consumer brands, formulators are under pressure to reduce emissions while maintaining cleaning efficiency. In response, Nouryon is delivering a next-generation, fully biobased solution that supports both environmental and performance goals.
A Fully Renewable, Biodegradable Alternative to Synthetic Ingredients
FinnFix® PB MAX replaces conventional synthetic detergent additives with a 100% biobased and biodegradable CMC that offers equal or better functionality. Unlike traditional ingredients, the new solution enhances sustainability while maintaining the high cleaning standards consumers expect. Moreover, the product improves anti-redeposition performance by preventing removed dirt and soils from reattaching to fabrics during the wash cycle. As a result, garments retain their brightness, cleanliness, and overall appearance for longer.
Renewable Raw Materials Backed by Certified Production
Nouryon manufactures FinnFix® PB MAX using natural wood-based cellulose, combined with ISCC Plus-certified monochloroacetic acid produced at the company’s Delfzijl, Netherlands facility. Consequently, the final CMC is derived entirely from renewable carbon sources, strengthening its environmental credentials and supporting circular economy targets.
Meeting Growing Demand for Low-Carbon Formulations
According to Nouryon, brand owners worldwide are actively seeking solutions that cut emissions while maintaining product effectiveness. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from brand owners who need to reduce product carbon footprint while maintaining the cleaning performance consumers expect,” said Brad Pearson, Vice President of Nouryon’s Cleaning Goods business line. “As the world’s largest CMC producer with manufacturing heritage dating back to the early 1940s, our application experts provide customers with a clear pathway to meet consumer expectations and evolving regulatory requirements for sustainable formulations,” Pearson added.
Easy Integration for Detergent Manufacturers
Importantly, FinnFix® PB MAX integrates seamlessly into existing powdered laundry detergent formulations, requiring minimal reformulation. This enables manufacturers to adopt the ingredient quickly without disrupting production lines. In addition, Nouryon supports customers through its global network of application laboratories, offering technical assistance and formulation guidance to accelerate product development.
Strengthening Nouryon’s Home and Personal Care Portfolio
As per the press release, within Nouryon’s Consumer and Life Sciences segment, FinnFix® PB MAX expands the company’s Home and Personal Care portfolio, which supplies essential performance ingredients for everyday consumer products. Through continued innovation, the company aims to help detergent brands deliver effective, sustainable, and future-ready formulations.
