Geno decarbonises Nylon-6 and surfactants

The bio-manufacturing expert has announced two significant breakthroughs. Genomatica (Geno) has joined forces with Sojitz Corporation to accelerate the commercialisation of its Nylon-6. This key polymer, which is used in the automotive, textile, and cosmetics industries, is now produced using renewable carbon instead of petroleum. The partnership aims to rapidly establish a sustainable supply chain to replace the fossil-based version. 

Future Origins, Geno's joint venture with Unilever, Kao and L'Oréal, has successfully completed a large-scale demonstration campaign for Nalo^™. This sustainable, deforestation-free substitute for C12/C14 fatty alcohols (used in surfactants for hygiene and household products) was produced in quantities of over 10 tonnes. The technology uses locally sourced plant-based raw materials. Validated by industry leaders, Nalo^™ improves the traceability and resilience of supply chains, paving the way for imminent industrial production, for which an agreement has already been signed with Kao.