The aim of the cooperation between the Beckers Group and the Canadian biotech company Anodyne Chemistries is to develop a CO₂-based and more sustainable alternative to petrochemical HHPA. HHPA is a key component in high-performance coating systems. There is currently no environmentally friendly HHPA alternative on the market.
Enzymes convert CO₂
Hexahydrophthalic anhydride (HHPA) is produced exclusively from fossil raw materials. Anodyne's new approach is based on specially developed enzymes that convert CO₂ into HHPA. Combined with an energy supply from renewable sources, this is a way to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of HHPA production. The approach could also represent a breakthrough in the development of renewable raw materials for coatings. Although the current focus is on HHPA, both companies see greater potential in applying the anodyne technology to other coating raw materials.
Comprehensive strategy for raw material substitution
"We are targeting HHPA because there is currently no renewable way to produce it," explains Gavin Bown, CTO at Beckers. "However, the underlying process opens up further opportunities. This partnership is part of our wider sustainable innovation strategy, which includes working with upstream partners to accelerate the commercialization of new, sustainable technologies."
Focus on coil coatings and potential beyond HHPA
Anodyne's research will be conducted in Vancouver, Canada, while Beckers will carry out mixing and performance testing at its FutureLab innovation center in Liverpool, UK, which specializes in coil coatings.