29 Mar 2022
Project with US-based Genomatica could support development of bio-based tire reinforcement
Tokyo - Asahi Kasei has announced a strategic partnership with Genomatica Inc., to produce hexamethylenediamine (HMD) based on biomass-derived raw material.
Asahi currently uses fossil fuel–derived HMD as an intermediate to manufacture its Leona brand polyamide 6.6 (PA6.6) engineering plastics and fibres.
Leona filament is widely used as a tire reinforcing material, particularly for aircraft applications, as well as a yarn for automotive air bags.
Under its deal with Genomatica, Asahi will have preferential access to early volumes of bio-HMD to evaluate its potential as a PA6.6 feedstock.
The Japanese group said it aims to be “first-to-market” with more sustainable polyamide 6.6 made using biomass-derived intermediate.
“Genomatica has an established track record of commercialising manufacturing technology for various chemical products using biotechnology,” noted Asahi’s 16 March statement.
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