100% bio-based coatings are now one step closer as AGC Vinythai’s research project with Prof. Mojgan Nejad at Michigan State University (MSU) moves into its next phase. For this second phase, the partners are joined by allnex, a global leader in industrial coatings, resins and additives.
To increase the bio-based content of coatings and epoxy resins, AGC Vinythai worked with Prof. Nejad to explore the use of lignin as a bisphenol A (BPA) substitute for epoxy resin formulations. The results of this initial work were published in January 2021 in the paper ‘Choosing the right lignin to fully replace Bisphenol A in epoxy resin formulation’ in the ChemSusChem Journal (https://doi.org/10.1002/cssc.202002729).
The second stage of the project started in November 2023 when allnex also came on board. allnex is a global leader in specialty polymers for industrial coatings, additives and composites, headquartered in Frankfurt, Germany.
Mr. Masayoshi Namba, Business Director, AGC Vinythai said, “Innovation and sustainability are key values for AGC Vinythai and EPINITY® is a leading example in our product portfolio. By working with partners, we are continuously improving the sustainability of our products.”
Professor Mojgan Nejad from Michigan State University said, “We are thrilled to share the exciting collaboration between MSU, AGC Vinythai and allnex to develop a bio-based epoxy coating. By completely replacing Bisphenol A with technical lignins and using bio-based epichlorohydrin from AGC Vinythai, we’re paving the way for greener, more sustainable coatings.”
Florian Lunzer, Director, Strategic Research, allnex said, “As a leader of industrial coating resins, allnex focusses on innovative chemistry to meet the needs of our customers and advance sustainability. We are pleased to collaborate with MSU and AGC Vinythai to bring lower carbon footprint and Bisphenol A free epoxy solutions to the markets we serve.”
The project is expected to run until October 2026.
EPINITY® Media contact
Kathryn Sheridan
Sustainability Consult
ks@sustainabilityconsult.com
About EPINITY®
EPINITY® is a bio-based Epichlorohydrin (ECH) mainly used as a precursor to epoxy resins, with uses in protective coatings, electronic components, adhesives and advanced composite materials. Other applications include paper and water treatment chemicals, mild surfactants in personal care and fine chemical applications.
See https://epinitychem.com for more information.
About AGC Vinythai Public Company Limited
AGC Vinythai Public Company Limited (AGC Vinythai) was established following the successful integration between AGC Chemicals (Thailand) Company Limited and Vinythai Public Company Limited on July 1, 2022 with AGC Inc. and PTT Global Chemical Public Company Limited as major shareholders. AGC Vinythai and its subsidiaries produce and supply various products, mainly Caustic Soda, PVC and Bio-based Epichlorohydrin to a wide range of industries in the emerging markets in Asia and worldwide.
About MSU and Prof. Mojgan Nejad
Michigan State University is recognized as the US premier land-grant university and one of the top research universities in the world. Dr. Nejad is an Associate Professor at MSU and holds a joint appointment in the Department of Forestry and the Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science. Her current research projects are focused on the development of lignin-based bioproducts, including biobased coatings, adhesives, foams, and composites. https://www.canr.msu.edu/greenbioproducts
About allnex
allnex is the leading global producer of specialty polymers for industrial coatings, ink, composites and adhesives. allnex is recognized as a specialty chemicals pioneer and offers an extensive range of products including innovative liquid resins and additives, radiation cured and powder coating resins and additives, and crosslinkers for use on wood, metal, plastic and other surfaces. Today, allnex has a strong global presence with 4000 employees worldwide, 33 manufacturing sites, and 23 research and technology support facilities. Since 2022, allnex is a subsidiary of PTT Global Chemical Public Company Limited. http://www.allnex.com
