In a move to further broaden its portfolio for bio-based monomers, BASF (Ludwigshafen, Germany; www.basf.com) said it has developed a new process for producing 2-Octyl Acrylate (2-OA) at industrial scale. 

Due to the bio-based content of 73%, which is traceable via the carbon-14 method, the German group said it has won certification for the end-product according to ISO 16620.

Two versions are now being produced in an industrial scale pilot plant in Ludwigshafen, the company said, leveraging BASF’s biomass balance (BMB1) approach. Alongside the basic 2-Octyl Acrylate, the chemical giant noted that it can now offer a 2-Octyl Acrylate BMB ISCC Plus version, which has a remaining fossil-based content certified according to the ISCC standard.

Reaping the benefits of its own biomass approach, BASF said the high-performance acrylate made from castor oil-derived 2-O-Octanol feedstock possesses a reduced Product Carbon Footprint (PCF2) and with its balanced solvency can easily replace fossil-based monomers such as 2-Ethylhexyl Acrylate (2-EHA) and n-Butyl Acrylate (BA) in formulations for adhesives or coatings applications.

With performance benefits comparable to fossil alternatives, the new acrylic monomer is claimed to offer improved scrub resistance in coatings and shear resistance in adhesives, as well as superior UV-resistance.

According to Reiner Geier, senior vice-president for European industrial petrochemicals at BASF, the new product is already registered in the EU, the US, and Japan, and it is one of the few carbon 14-traceable monomers suitable for use in both standard and performance applications.