South Korean chemicals and plastics group LG Chem (Seoul; www.lgchem.com) has signed an agreement with polymer producer CheilJedang (CJ, Seoul; www.cj.net) to form a JV to produce and sell eco-friendly PA 6.6 based on pentamethylenediamine (PDMA). A precursor production plant is also to be set up as part of the JV, according to LG Chem.

CheilJedang said it plans to produce PDMA made by fermenting corn, sugarcane, and other crops, using microbial precision fermentation technology. Polymerisation and distribution are to be handled by LG Chem. Both believe that this will enable them to produce materials with the same properties as the petroleum-based variants in terms of heat stability and durability. The bio-nylon is suitable for use in the automotive, textiles, and electronic devices sectors, the company said.

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LG Chem estimates that demand for bio-based PA 6.6 will grow by around 30% per year – from the current 400,000 t to 1.4 mn t in 2028. CheilJedang has so far mainly been active with the biopolymers PHA and PLA, activity stemming from the acquisition of the former biopolymer specialist Metabolix.