German chemical specialist LANXESS will become the first company globally to produce bio-based EPDM rubber from bio-based ethylene, should its set deadline by the end of the year.
EPDM, conventionally produced using the petroleum-based raw materials ethylene and propylene, is largely used in the automotive industry, but is also has applications in plastics modification, cable and wire, construction and oil additives industries.
Its properties, which include very low density, good resistance to heat, oxidation, chemicals and weathering as well as good electrical insulation properties, are reportedly ideal for reducing energy consumption as well as CO2 emissions due to it versatile and durable compound coefficient.
LAXNESS is also looking at developing alternative sources to produce the premium synthetic rubber product butyl rubber, predominantly use in tyre manufacturing.
The company has indentified the tyre industry as a main market for potential growth stating that demand for passenger vehicles is expected to almost double in growing economies, such as India, and demand for tyres will rise accordingly.
LANXESS is currently developing isobutene from renewable resources, starting with corn under a partnership with Colorado-based Gevo, LANXESS. Isobutene is a key raw material needed in the manufacture of butyl rubber.