Alpha Bio – JV between IFF and Kemira on Enzymatic Biomaterial(TM) commercialization
Mar. 27, 2025, cited from https://www.iff.com/science/alpha-bio/
Growing the bioeconomy
Kemira & IFF are expanding their strategic cooperation. The next step: first full-scale commercial biomanufacture of tailored biomaterials that provide novel high-performing alternatives to fossil-based products.
This venture enables the conversion of up to 44,000 metric tons/a of EU-produced beet sugar to bioproducts using IFF’s patented Designed Enzymatic Biomaterial™ (DEB™) platform technology integrated at the IFF biorefinery in Kotka, Finland.
The DEB™ technology leverages biotechnology to design polysaccharides through the enzymatic polymerization of simple plant sugars with high purity, conversion, consistency and selectivity., advancing product performance across key applications while allowing manufacturers to replace traditional fossil-based synthetic polymers with a more sustainable alternative.
ACS Green Chemistry Institute launches Natural Polymers Consortium
Oct. 9, 2024
link: https://cen.acs.org/acs-news/ACS-Green-Chemistry-Institute-launches/102/web/2024/10
In September, the American Chemical Society Green Chemistry Institute introduced the Natural Polymers Consortium (NPC). This initiative has been in development for the past years with various virtual and in-person meetings taking place to establish the collaboration’s framework and objectives. The NPC aims to promote the sustainable development, production, and application of natural polymers through research, discussion, evaluation, and advocacy.
The founding members of the NPC include Colgate-Palmolive, International Flavors & Fragrances, MonoSol, Procter & Gamble, and founding affiliate member RockyTech. The consortium’s first cochairs are Jun Wang from Colgate-Palmolive and Matthew Wagner from Procter & Gamble.
Historically, natural polymers have been underexplored, as 20th-century industries favored petrochemicals and synthetic polymers. However, natural polymers like cellulose, silk, and rubber, which have been used for thousands of years, are now gaining significant interest. Industries focused on biobased feedstocks, materials, packaging, and consumer products are seeking innovative, sustainable materials.
For membership inquiries, contact gciroundtables@acs.org.