DSM aims to produce green PA6, targets fully bio-based portfolio by 2030

LONDON (ICIS)–DSM has signed an agreement with Neste under which the Finish refiner will supply sustainable feedstocks for production of polyamide 6 (PA6), a push for green polymers it will aim to complete by 2030, the Dutch specialty chemicals major said on Friday.

A spokesperson at DSM confirmed to ICIS the company aims to produce polyamide 6 and polyamide 6,6 (PA66), also called nylon 6 and nylon 6,6, in the first phase of the project.

Financial details were not disclosed.

DSM said it was aiming to start in due course the process of replacing fossil fuels-based feedstock – still dominating the engineering plastics industry –  with more sustainable feedstocks coming from recycled waste plastics as well as “100% bio-based” hydrocarbons.

“Over time and toward 2030, DSM will have a complete range of bio-based and recycled-based alternatives for all grades of our portfolio,” the spokesperson added.

Neste has taken significant steps to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels. In the wake of the pandemic’s hit to the crude oil markets, Neste said in September if would overhaul its Porvoo refinery operations to co-processing renewable and circular raw materials.

Neste produces its bio-based hydrocarbons from renewable raw materials, such as waste and residue oils and fats; for production of waste plastic-derived feedstock, the Finnish firm picks plastics that cannot be mechanically recycled that used to be sent to landfill or for incineration.

“The new strategic cooperation underlines a strong commitment from both partners to contribute to a circular economy by collaborating throughout the value chain, and addressing the increasing consumer, societal and regulatory demand for more sustainable circular solutions,” concluded DSM.

Additional reporting by Mark Victory