- Toray aims to offer bio-based polyamide 4 by March 2029.
- The technology uses bio-based 2-pyrrolidone from sugars and biomass.
- Polyamide 4 microparticles match conventional sizes and shapes.
- Bio-based 2-pyrrolidone also supports semiconductor and pharmaceutical applications.
Introduction
Toray Industries has developed a proprietary technology to produce bio-based 2-pyrrolidone, a key raw material in polyamide 4, aimed at addressing microplastic pollution in cosmetics.
Environmental Impact
The bio-based polyamide 4 offers excellent biodegradability in marine and other environments, helping to mitigate the environmental issues caused by microplastics from cosmetics and facial cleansers.
Production and Applications
Traditionally, 2-pyrrolidone is petroleum-based, but Toray's new method uses sugars and other biomass sources. The resulting polyamide 4 microparticles are comparable in size and shape to conventional ones, ensuring no impact on end products.
Broader Implications
Beyond polyamide 4, bio-based 2-pyrrolidone serves as a feedstock for N-methylpyrrolidone, used in semiconductor materials and engineering plastics, and N-vinylpyrrolidone, a monomer for high-performance polymers in pharmaceuticals.
Future Plans
Toray plans to scale up production and offer bio-based polyamide 4 by the fiscal year ending March 2029, contributing to a circular economy and reduced carbon emissions across the value chain.
