Zeon and Sumika Polymer advance sustainable chemical production

Chemical and materials companies are advancing sustainable production and recycling technologies to meet evolving regulatory requirements, particularly within the automotive sector.

In Japan, Zeon Corporation has completed a pilot plant in Tokuyama for the CO2-neutral production of butadiene. Developed in collaboration with Yokohama Rubber and supported by the agency Nedo, the facility tests a process using plant-based ethanol. The goal is to create sustainable polybutadiene materials for tire production, with commercial use targeted for 2034.

In France, Sumika Polymer Compounds Europe is investing over 13 million euros in a new mechanical recycling plant in Saint-Martin-de-Crau. The facility is expected to produce more than 10,000 tonnes of recycled polypropylene annually, specifically for the automotive industry. This expansion aims to help manufacturers meet upcoming EU mandates requiring recycled content in new vehicles.

Additionally, Envalior is developing circular polyamide 6 (PA6) routes and electric vehicle (EV) powertrain materials. Their work includes high-purity caprolactam through catalytic depolymerization and bio-based polyphenylene sulphide grades to support end-of-life vehicle regulations.