Arkema, a global leader in specialty materials, has announced a major step toward sustainability by converting its entire European production line of acrylic thickeners to bio-based alternatives. This strategic move delivers the same high-performance results as their standard counterparts while introducing up to 30% bio-based content and reducing product carbon footprints by up to 25%.

This development aligns with Arkema’s commitment to sustainable innovation and supports the growing demand for eco-friendly materials across industries. These next-generation rheology additives are designed for use in a wide range of applications including architectural paints, industrial coatings, plasters, renders, adhesives, and sealants—helping optimize the consistency, application, and performance of these systems.

Helene Pernot, Global Sustainability Marketing Director at Arkema’s Coating Solutions business, emphasized the importance of this milestone: “These bio-based specialty additives pave the way for a more sustainable future in coatings and adhesives. They empower our customers to meet their own environmental goals, particularly in reducing their carbon footprints. Delivering greener solutions for the construction and coatings market is key to satisfying modern market demands and improving everyday living environments.”

Yohann Trang, Global Market Director for Construction Materials at Coating Solutions, highlighted that the transition will not compromise product performance or cost: “Our customers will experience the same quality and performance they’ve come to expect. These bio-based thickeners are fully interchangeable with traditional grades, offering a seamless switch to a more sustainable option. This transformation reflects Arkema’s broader commitment to embedding sustainability across the entire value chain.”

The bio-based acrylic thickeners will be marketed under the established Rheotech™, Thixol™, and Viscoatex™ brands. These are the first products to incorporate bio-sourced ethyl acrylate, recently launched at Arkema’s acrylic monomer production facility in Carling, France. This new raw material marks a significant milestone in reducing reliance on fossil resources and reinforces Arkema’s leadership in responsible innovation.

This initiative not only strengthens Arkema’s position in the sustainable materials space but also sets a new benchmark for the coatings and adhesives industry. By delivering drop-in, bio-based alternatives that match conventional performance standards, Arkema demonstrates how innovation can meet environmental responsibility without compromise.

Rheotech™, Thixol™, and Viscoatex™ are registered trademarks of Coatex, an Arkema company, continuing to drive value through high-performance and eco-conscious product offerings.

Leveraging its deep expertise in materials science, Arkema delivers a comprehensive portfolio of advanced technologies designed to meet the increasing global demand for innovative and sustainable materials. The company develops high-performance solutions that address key global challenges, including renewable energy, water access, recycling, urban development, and sustainable mobility. Arkema maintains ongoing collaboration with its stakeholders to drive meaningful progress. In 2024, the Group reported sales of approximately €9.5 billion and operates across roughly 55 countries, employing around 21,150 people worldwide.