Recent developments
Biocatalysis efficiency
Toray Industries disclosed an immobilized-microorganism bioreactor technology that targets 80–90% lower energy use than high-temperature, high-pressure routes. A sealed reactor and wood-based carriers enabled >99.5% conversion of acrylonitrile to organic acids, with suitability for volatile compounds. The platform is tunable via a ~500-microbe library, and Toray plans technical verification and operational design toward commercialization at internal and external sites.
Portfolio realignment
Arkema will divest plastic additives to Praana, covering global MBS copolymers and European/Asian AIMPA used in PVC and engineering plastics. The scope generated €44 million sales in 2024. The Vlissingen, Netherlands plant (50 employees) transfers, while the Mobile, US site and American AIMPA remain with Arkema. Closing is targeted for Q1 2026, subject to Dutch employee consultations.
Legal and compliance
Clariant received damage claims from MOL Group and Braskem linked to the European Commission’s 2020 decision on the ethylene purchasing market. The claims, filed in Munich, total approximately €548 million and €402 million, respectively. Clariant rejects the allegations, states the conduct had no market impact, and intends to defend its position with economic evidence.