BBGI Public Company Limited (BBGI) has entered into a strategic partnership with Keppel Ltd, through its infrastructure division, and CleanEdge Resources Limited (CleanEdge) to jointly develop a Bio-LNG (Liquefied Biomethane) project in Thailand.

The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) marks an important step forward in advancing renewable energy in Southeast Asia.

A Milestone in Renewable Energy

The partnership represents a significant milestone in the region’s renewable energy sector.

Over the next three to five years, BBGI, Keppel and CleanEdge will collaborate to expand production capacity in Thailand, contributing to the growing demand for bio-based fuels in the region.

Commitment to Sustainability

Kittiphong Limsuwanroj, CEO of BBGI said, “We are delighted to announce BBGI’s commitment, in collaboration with our esteemed partners from Singapore, to study and develop a Bio-LNG production project. This initiative will become a new flagship of renewable energy for Thailand and the region. It aligns perfectly with our vision of fostering sustainable green innovations”.

Limsuwanroj further mentioned, “The investment in Bio-LNG production demonstrates our commitment and represents an essential step in achieving Thailand’s Net Zero goals. By producing clean, renewable energy from bio-based fuels, we aim to make a meaningful contribution to the country’s environmental objectives”.

An Eco-Friendly Energy Solution

The Bio-LNG project will provide an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional fuels.

With lower carbon intensity, Bio-LNG helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, making it a crucial part of the renewable energy landscape.

Project Timeline and Production Goals

As per the press release, the project is expected to have a production capacity of approximately 130 tons per day. The target is to begin commercial operations by 2027, with the project expected to play a key role in meeting the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions in Southeast Asia.

The Brands

BBGI specialises in the production of biofuels. The company offers a range of eco-friendly products, including ethanol, biodiesel, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and other high-value bio-based and well-being products.

Cleanedge Resources is into industrial wastewater treatment and resource recovery sector. The brand converts biomass from industrial and agricultural waste into biofuels.

Keppel Ltd., an asset manager and operator, is into sustainable urban renewal and digital connectivity. It is a driving innovation in sectors that promote environmental and social responsibility.

Deepak Chem Tech Limited (DCTL), a wholly owned subsidiary of Deepak Nitrite Limited, announced plans to invest ₹5,000 crore in a polycarbonate manufacturing project.

The plant, set to be located at a greenfield site in Dahej, Gujarat, will have a production capacity of 1,65,000 metric tons of polycarbonate resins annually.

The facility is scheduled for commissioning by the fourth quarter of the fiscal year 2028.

Strategic Acquisition

In a significant move, DCTL has entered into an agreement with Trinseo to acquire its polycarbonate assets in Stade, Germany.

The deal not only includes the acquisition of the assets but also provides DCTL with a technology license.

Additionally, DCTL will gain access to Trinseo’s renowned CALIBRE™ resins and trademark, which enjoy a strong global reputation.

The Applications

Polycarbonate resins are highly versatile and are increasingly used in industries such as automotive (including electric mobility), electronics, electrical, construction, appliances, medical devices, aerospace, aviation, and drones.

With demand for high-quality engineering polymers rising across these sectors, this project aligns well with growing market needs.

Strategic Opportunities

Deepak C. Mehta, Chairman and Managing Director of Deepak Nitrite Limited, stated, “The historic collaboration between DCTL and Trinseo opens strategic opportunities for both companies. These opportunities include exploring partnerships in downstream compounds and complementary technology tie-ups.” The ‘Made in India’ tagline, combined with world-scale capacities and our brand credibility. It brings a new horizon of opportunities in advanced materials”.

Global Expertise and Reach

Trinseo, a player in engineering polymers and compounds, reported net sales of approximately $3.7 billion in 2023.

Major brands across various industries utilize its extensive portfolio.

Trinseo’s advanced expertise will be provided to DCTL. This will happen through the collaboration. It enhance DCTL’s ability to meet India’s rising demand for quality polymer solutions.

Serving Multiple Sectors

Deepak Nitrite a chemical intermediates companies, has built a versatile portfolio that spans numerous industries.

The company caters to a range of sectors, including dyes and pigments, agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, plastics, textiles, paper, and home and personal care.

As reported by prnewswire.com, the brand supplies petrochemical derivatives like phenolics, acetone, and isopropyl alcohol (IPA) to both Indian and international markets.

Haldia Petrochemicals Ltd. (HPL), a player from petrochemical industry, announced a major milestone in its expansion efforts.

The company has signed a license amendment agreement with Lummus Technology to increase its phenol production capacity at the upcoming Phenol and Acetone Plant in Haldia, West Bengal.

The agreement was formalized by Navanit Narayan, Whole-time Director and CEO of HPL, and Dr. Romain Lemoine, Chief Business Officer of Polymers and Petrochemicals at Lummus Technology.

Enhancing Production Capabilities

The Haldia and Lummus agreement paves the way for HPL to boost its phenol production capacity from 300 KTPA (kilotons per annum) to 345 KTPA.

The expansion is part of HPL’s larger growth strategy and reflects the company’s commitment to strengthening India’s chemicals industry.

The enhanced capacity will enable HPL to better meet the increasing domestic demand for phenol and acetone.

Investment and Technological Innovation

As part of its broader investment plan, HPL is committing over ₹5,000 crore to develop a greenfield facility in Haldia.

In addition to phenol, the plant will focus on the production of cumene and acetone, further contributing to the growth of India’s downstream chemical sector.

The facility will also house India’s first on-purpose propylene plant, utilizing olefins conversion technology (OCT) provided by Lummus Technology.

The first quarter of 2026 is the targeted completion date for this project.

Strengthening Strategic Partnerships

Navanit Narayan, Whole-time Director and CEO of HPL, stated, “The agreement will enhance our production capabilities. It will also help address the growing demand for phenol and acetone in India.” The capacity upgrade to 345 KTPA underscores our commitment to delivering high-quality products. These products support the country’s chemical and allied industries”.

Dr. Romain Lemoine, Chief Business Officer, Lummus Technology added, “The Haldia and Lummus collaboration demonstrates our shared commitment to innovation and progress in the petrochemical sector. We are proud to support HPL in scaling its operations and meeting the demands of the market”.

Industrial Growth

The expansion marks a significant achievement for HPL. It solidifies the company’s role as a vital contributor to India’s industrial growth.

As per the press release, by enhancing its production capabilities, HPL is poised to play a critical role in the production of essential chemical intermediates. It supports India’s evolving petrochemical and manufacturing industries.

Veolia Water Technologies has introduced its innovative mobile water services tailored for the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and life sciences industries in Europe.

The service provides a complete range of technologies and solutions available as a rental service, offering consistent, sustainable water treatment options essential for manufacturing, cleaning, and complex liquid waste management.

Reliable Water and Pure Steam Solutions

To supply purified water (PW) and cold water for injection (WFI), Veolia deploys its multi-technology Orion™ and Ionpro™ units, ensuring compliance with stringent industry standards. For applications requiring apyrogenic pure steam, the Polaris™ system is available.

These advanced units support a range of uses while meeting European and US Pharmacopeia standards, as well as FDA, cGMP, and GAMP requirements.

Efficient and Sustainable Waste Management

Veolia also offers solutions for managing complex waste streams, especially those with solvents and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).

The Evaled™ evaporation technology and MPPTM liquid-to-liquid extraction system effectively recover valuable resources from waste, reducing the need for offsite disposal.

By lowering the environmental impact of waste streams, these technologies provide an eco-friendly and cost-efficient waste management approach.

Flexible and Scalable Service Options

Veolia’s mobile units operate flexibly as standalone solutions or in combination, depending on client needs. Businesses can rent these units for short-term periods (weeks to months) or for extended durations (up to several years).

The flexibility allows companies to supplement or even replace fixed plants, adapting to demand changes without long-term commitments.

Commitment to Ecological Transformation

Veolia integrates sustainability into its mobile services, aligned with its GreenUp 24-27 strategic plan.

The units are engineered to optimize water recovery, lower energy use, and contain a significant proportion of recyclable materials.

The rental program includes responsible end-of-life management, furthering Veolia’s dedication to sustainable resource management.

Challenges and Expert Support

Veolia’s mobile water services address various operational challenges that can lead to significant costs or disruptions.

These scenarios include water shortages, technology failures, spikes in demand, or new drug developments. By renting a mobile unit, businesses gain access to reliable water treatment with full maintenance, spare parts, and consumables covered by Veolia.

Environmental compliance is simplified, and live system monitoring is available through Veolia’s advanced technical expertise.

Performance-Driven Service Delivery

Mark Dyson, Vice President of Mobile Business for Veolia Water Technologies stated, “Our output performance-based service optimizes both the quality and quantity of treated water delivered, while managing complex wastewater in a compliant, sustainable manner. This service provides customers with expert water management without capital expenditure, supporting compliance and reducing environmental impact”.

According to the press release, Veolia’s mobile water services offer a seamless solution to water and waste management. This solution is eco-friendly and serves Europe’s pharmaceutical and life sciences sectors. It enables efficient operations in an environmentally responsible way.

Indorama Ventures Public Company Limited, a global leader in sustainable chemicals, announced that its Indovinya business segment, through subsidiary Indorama Ventures Oxides LLC, has signed an agreement to acquire two major brands in the energy extraction sector from Cargill Bioindustrial UK Limited.

The acquisition is a strategic move to expand Indovinya’s specialty surfactants offerings, particularly in demulsifiers and flow assurance products, supporting its growth trajectory in this market.

Key Assets Included in Acquisition

The acquisition brings valuable assets to Indovinya’s portfolio, including highly regarded trademarks, long-standing customer relationships, 25 patents, tolling rights, and an R&D facility based in Houston, Texas.

Central to the deal are the renowned KEMELIX and FLOWSOLVE brands. It is known for their advanced formulations and excellent performance in the oil and gas sector.

By integrating these solutions, Indovinya aims to enhance its capacity to address the sector’s critical challenges and improve operational efficiencies for its clients.

High-Performance Demulsifiers

KEMELIX, a flagship brand in the demulsification segment, offers high-performance demulsifiers that support efficient water separation from crude oil.

With an extensive product line that includes alkoxylates, polyamine derivatives, and modified polyols, KEMELIX delivers effective solutions even in challenging conditions such as heavy oil, low temperatures, and varying water levels.

The design of these demulsifiers optimizes operations, thereby providing economic advantages for oil and gas operators.

Enhanced Flow Assurance Solutions

The acquisition also includes the FLOWSOLVE brand. It is a leader in asphaltene and wax inhibitors.

FLOWSOLVE’s advanced additives improve the flow of crude oil from the reservoir to the refinery, optimizing the entire extraction process.

The product line is designed to suit different crude oil environments, including onshore, offshore, and deepwater applications. This makes it highly adaptable to varied operational needs.

A Strategic Step Forward

Alastair Port, Executive President of Indovinya, expressed happiness about the acquisition.

Port said, “The acquisition is a significant milestone for Indorama Ventures and our Indovinya segment. Integrating these established brands with their strong customer relationships enhances our presence in the energy extraction market. It allows us to meet evolving customer needs with superior service and innovative solutions. This move supports Indovinya’s strategy to lead high-growth markets across Home & Personal Care, Crop Solutions, Coatings & Construction, and Energy and Resources by prioritizing customer-centric innovation, strategic partnerships, and targeted acquisitions”.

Through this acquisition, Indorama Ventures strengthens its Indovinya segment and reinforces its commitment to innovation in the specialty surfactants market. It enhances footprint in the energy sector while continuing to diversify its portfolio across multiple high-growth industries.

The inaugural edition of the UTECH India – Sustainable Polyurethane & Foam (ISPUF) Expo is scheduled to take place from December 4-6, 2024 at Hall 4, NESCO, Bombay Exhibition Centre.

The event promises to be an unmissable experience for professionals across the PU and foam sectors.

Platform for Innovation and Networking

UTECH ISPUF Expo will offer an ideal opportunity for both industry leaders and emerging innovators in the polyurethane and foam sectors to showcase groundbreaking technologies.

It will also serve as a hub for networking, enabling professionals to connect with potential business partners from across the globe.

In addition, the Sleep Expo, a leading Middle Eastern brand, will set up a pavilion at the expo.

This further amplifies the event’s significance, making it a prime destination for professionals in the PU, foam, and mattress industries to explore cutting-edge technologies and stay ahead of the curve.

Diverse Range of Applications

The expo is specifically designed for professionals in various sectors, including manufacturers, suppliers, buyers, and end-users of polyurethane materials, foam solutions, insulation technologies, and mattress products.

Visitors will find a wide range of applications, from technical foam solutions to sustainable insulation products, catering to industries such as construction, automotive, packaging, and more.

Gain Insight at the Conference

In addition to the exhibition, attendees can benefit from a three-day dedicated conference, where over 25 top industry leaders will share their expertise.

The conference will cover the latest trends and sustainable practices that are shaping the future of the polyurethane and foam sectors.

An excellent chance to learn from the best, connect with industry experts, and gain valuable insights to drive your business forward.

The Exhibitors

The expo will feature a diverse line-up of key exhibitors, including:

• Duroflex
• Chemie Products Pvt Ltd
• AS Enterprises
• Super Bond Adhesives Pvt. Ltd.
• Jay Elastomers Private Limited
• Saan Global Ltd
• K B Polychem India Ltd.
• Meenakshi Polymers Pvt. Ltd.
• Shakun Industries

The companies will showcase their latest products and innovations, offering attendees a unique opportunity to explore new solutions and establish valuable business relationships. The event is a must-attend for everyone from the polyurethane and foam industries.

Register to visit: https://utechindia2024.evenuefy.com/dashboard/r/669b79d3161fc5769bf8863e?utm_source=CID%20Barter&utm_medium=Website&utm_campaign=visitor%20promo&utm_content=UTECH%20ISPUF%20Expo%202024

Topsoe, a player in carbon emission reduction technologies, entered into an agreement with Refinaria de Petróleo Riograndense SA (Riograndense) to supply its cutting-edge HydroFlex™ and H2bridge™ technologies.

These technologies will be used to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel at Riograndense’s renewable fuels plant in Rio Grande, Brazil.

Meeting Growing Demand

The collaboration comes in response to the growing global demand for SAF. According to the International Energy Agency’s Net Zero Scenario, over 10% of fuel consumption in aviation must be SAF by 2030 to achieve net zero CO2 emissions by 2050.

However, in 2023, the International Air Transport Association estimated that global SAF production accounted for only about 0.2% of total jet fuel demand.

Emissions Reduction Goals

Elena Scaltritti, Chief Commercial Officer at Topsoe, stated, “With Brazil setting ambitious airline emissions reduction targets in October this year, Riograndense is one of the country’s early movers to ensure SAF supply is available for airline operators on time. We look forward to partnering with Riograndense to grow the supply of renewable fuels in Brazil”.

SAF Leadership

Felipe Jorge, Managing Director at Riograndense said, “We believe Topsoe is the right partner for Riograndense to progress towards the total conversion to a biorefinery, which will allow us to become a reference in SAF production in Brazil”.

Global Reach

Topsoe’s collaboration with Riograndense follows several successful implementations of its HydroFlex™ technology in other global projects.

Notable examples include renewable fuels refineries in Hamburg (HOLBORN), Canada (Braya Renewable Fuels), Spain (Cepsa Bioenergia), and China (Guangxi Hongkun Biomass).

HydroFlex™ technology allows customers to convert various fats, oils, and greases into drop-in renewable jet fuel and diesel that meet all globally accepted specifications for these fuels.

The technology is versatile, with applications in both grassroots units and revamps for co-processing or fully renewable operations.

Green Hydrogen Production

Topsoe’s H2bridge™ technology complements HydroFlex™ by enabling the production of green hydrogen.

It does so by processing waste propane and off gases from the HydroFlex™ process and converting them into hydrogen. Later it is consumed in the same process.

This integration not only improves the efficiency of the operation but also reduces the carbon intensity of the final product.

As per the press release, by leveraging both HydroFlex™ and H2bridge™, Topsoe offers a comprehensive solution for renewable fuel production that significantly reduces carbon emissions and aligns with global sustainability goals.

Waters Corporation opened a state-of-the-art 45,000 square foot manufacturing facility at Longbridge Business Park in the West Midlands, marking a significant expansion in its global operations.

The new site, which more than triples Waters’ existing manufacturing space, is poised to boost the company’s capacity for producing critical components used in Waters’ mass spectrometry products.

The advanced scientific instruments serve industries such as life sciences, food safety, environmental science, and materials analysis.

The Commitment

The Longbridge facility exemplifies Waters’ commitment to the West Midlands region and aligns with the company’s long-term goal of supporting local innovation and workforce development.

“The opening of our Longbridge facility is an important next step for Waters and our employees with a modern, fit-for-purpose space to support their innovative and important work,” stated Chris Ross, Senior Vice President of Global Operations at Waters.

He added that the precision engineering center not only expands Waters’ manufacturing footprint in the area but also provides a high-quality working environment to foster future growth.

Government Endorsement

David Clay, British Consul General to New England, stated, “The UK Government is delighted.” He added, “Waters Corporation is opening a new site at Longbridge.” This investment brings new jobs and innovative technology in precision engineering to the West Midlands. The region has long welcomed industrial innovation.

Clay emphasized that Waters’ choice to expand in the UK highlights the nation’s expertise and talent in engineering. He anticipates a positive, lasting impact in the West Midlands.

Sustainable Design

In collaboration with St. Modwen and Briggs & Forrester Engineering Services, Waters designed the Longbridge facility with sustainability in mind.

Built to the BREEAM Very Good standard, the facility has achieved an Energy Performance Certificate rating of “A.”

Notably, the heating and hot water systems consume zero natural gas. The temperature-controlled production environment allows for manufacturing components with sub-micron precision, enhancing both product quality and environmental responsibility.

As per the press release, Waters Corporation strengthens its global manufacturing capabilities through this investment. It also reinforces its role as a leader in precision engineering and scientific innovation in the West Midlands region.

The Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC) expects significant export opportunities emerging from the eventual reconstruction of Ukraine and Russia.

EEPC Chairman Arun Garodia highlighted that, although estimates for Ukraine’s rebuilding costs vary, some reports suggest it could reach $1 trillion.

Regardless of the specific figure, Garodia believes that substantial opportunities will arise once the country begins to rebuild after the ongoing war with Russia concludes.

“Ukraine wants to buy from us; Russia also wants to buy from us,” Garodia remarked.

He expressed optimism that the war would soon come to an end, particularly once Donald Trump returns to the US presidency.

He also noted that India has maintained friendly relations with both nations throughout the conflict.

EEPC’s Flagship Event

Garodia made these comments during a media conference held to announce the EEPC’s flagship event, the International Engineering Sourcing Show (IESS), scheduled to take place in Chennai from November 27 to 29, 2024.

The IESS will serve as a platform for showcasing India’s engineering capabilities and fostering global trade relations. Garodia also emphasized that many countries now prefer buying from India instead of China.

Engineering Export Growth

Garodia forecasted that India’s engineering goods exports, including steel and aluminum, would surpass $118 billion in 2024-25, up from $109 billion in 2023-24.

This increase is part of a broader trend. In the first half of the year (April-September), India’s engineering exports rose by 5.3%, reaching $56 billion.

Since the second half of the year usually sees stronger performance, Garodia is confident that the $118 billion mark will be exceeded, with potential to reach $125 billion.

Ambitious Export Targets

The government has set ambitious engineering export targets for the future: $300 billion by 2030 and $1.5 trillion by 2047.

Garodia acknowledged that while they are ambitious, they are not unattainable. He explained that the government set these targets after consulting with industry leaders.

Garodia also pointed out that emerging sectors, such as renewable energy and electric vehicles, are key areas that provide significant growth potential for India’s exports.

Tariff Policy and Its Impact

In the context of global trade dynamics, Garodia discussed the US’s tariff policies under former President Donald Trump.

During his first term, Trump used Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 to impose a 25% tariff on all countries, excluding Canada and Mexico, with a particular focus on China.

The policy continued under President Biden, who, on September 27, 2024, finalized additional tariffs on Chinese imports under Section 301 of the Trade Expansion Act.

As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, these tariff measures have had a lasting impact on global trade and trade relations, with many countries, including India, benefiting from the shifting trade landscape.

British biopharmaceutical firm GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) marked a significant milestone, completing hundred years of operations in India.

The journey of GSK in India has been marked by groundbreaking innovations, from producing the antibiotic penicillin to developing Augmentin and pioneering pediatric vaccines.

The company’s recent launch of the shingles vaccine further underscores its commitment to advancing healthcare solutions.

Success Amidst Challenges

Bhushan Akshikar, Managing Director of GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Ltd, highlighted that the company’s century-long success is no accident.

Akshikar emphasized that GSK’s resilience and strategic foresight had enabled it to navigate challenges in the pharmaceutical industry, including issues related to patents and drug pricing.

This journey has not been without its hurdles, but the company has consistently weathered them with perseverance.

Pillars of GSK’s Journey

Akshikar acknowledged that GSK’s enduring success lies in its ability to reinvent itself and demonstrate resilience.

From its early association with infant formula and the Glaxo Baby to producing penicillin in India, the company has consistently adapted to the changing healthcare landscape.

Akshikar also noted that the leadership’s long-term vision has been crucial in overcoming challenges, especially those related to patent issues and pricing concerns – issues that are once again prominent today, just as they were in the 1970s.

Adapting to Change

GSK continues to look for ways to evolve, with a strong focus on adopting advanced technology and exploring new opportunities. With a presence in nineteen global clinical trials, GSK’s footprint in India and abroad continues to expand.

Vision for the Future

As global multinationals eye the Indian market, GSK to focus on unmet healthcare needs, particularly in the context of an ageing population.

With healthcare expected to remain a core priority for the country, GSK’s continued success will depend on its ability to address evolving challenges. It must also seize opportunities in the Indian healthcare ecosystem.

As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, GSK’s centennial celebration reflects its past achievements. It also reaffirms the company’s commitment to shaping the future of healthcare in India and beyond.