Econic Technologies, a UK-based deep tech company focused on renewable carbon, and Sanyo Chemicals, a chemical company headquartered in Kyoto, Japan, have signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at collaboration on the development of CO2-based polyols based on technology developed by Econic.

Econic’s technology is based on a proprietary catalyst and process that allows manufacturers to replace up to 30 percent of the fossil-based component in their polyols with captured CO2. The use of CO₂ offers a more sustainable option while yielding high-performance polyols that can be used in foams, laminates, coatings, and elastomers for a range of applications, from furniture and mattresses to insulation, footwear and apparel.

“Commercialising products based on renewable carbon is increasingly important in light of climate change and the need to shift to a circular economy," said Econic CEO Keith Wiggins. Carbon utilisation technologies have an important role to play by essentially upcycling and extending the life of captured CO2 that is already above ground. "We are pleased to have reached an understanding with Sanyo Chemical to explore bringing our solution for renewable carbon to Japan’s manufacturing sector,” he added.

Changhua in China, Monument Chemical in the US and Manali in India have already licenced Econic’s technology. Industrial quantities of PCE polyols based on Econic’s technology will be available in the market later this year.

Source: Econic