AkzoNobel, Itaconix to Develop Bio-Based Chelates for Detergents

AkzoNobel’s speciality chemicals business and Itaconix PLC have signed an application agreement to evaluate and develop innovative bio-based chelates for use in the consumer and industrial detergents and cleaners markets.

It is the second partnership stemming from a joint development agreement signed by the companies earlier this year to develop and commercialize sustainable products made from renewable feedstocks using Itaconix technology. Products from this collaboration will be marketed under AkzoNobel’s Dissolvine brand.

“Bio-based chelates show promise for use in laundry detergents, bathroom cleaners and other consumer and commercial cleaning products, They are replacements for phosphates, which are being phased out due to environmental concerns,” said Peter Kuijpers, general manager chelates and micronutrients, AkzoNobel.

“Our success to date in North America and Europe demonstrates the breakthrough potential for our novel bio-based polymer technology in everyday homecare products. We are excited to work with AkzoNobel, a world leader in chelates, to maximize the commercial potential of these products,” added John Shaw, president of Itaconix US and global homecare.

“Being able to use renewable polymers like these presents a significant sustainability advantage for our customers and will help us to grow our business,” added said Annika Karlsson, RD&I director in speciality chemicals, responsible amongst others for chelates and micronutrients.