BASF Launches Bio-Based Ethyl Acrylate to Embrace Sustainability

BASF’s transition to bio-based Ethyl Acrylate (EA) marks a significant step in advancing the biotransformation of its (Meth)Acrylate portfolio, highlighting the company’s dedication to sustainable innovation. Starting in Q4 2024, BASF will produce EA with a 40% bio-content that is 14C-traceable according to DIN EN 16640, offering a ~30% reduction in Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) compared to its fossil-based counterpart. This shift not only supports BASF’s sustainability goals but also enables customers worldwide to reduce their environmental impact. Additionally, the introduction of bio-based Ethyl Acrylate BMB ISCC Plus, featuring an even lower PCF through BASF’s biomass balance approach, further strengthens the company’s leadership in promoting eco-friendly solutions.

BASF’s bio-based ethyl acetate (EA) is manufactured at its Ludwigshafen site using bioethanol exclusively as the alcohol source, ensuring a sustainable alternative to conventional production methods. Despite the shift to bio-based feedstock, the chemical and technical properties of this new ethyl acetate remain identical to those of the traditional fossil-based version. This innovation allows customers to maintain the same product performance while benefiting from a more environmentally friendly production process, aligning with sustainability goals.

BASF’s bio-based Ethyl Acrylate is derived from sustainable bioethanol, primarily sourced from Europe, with grain serving as the feedstock. BASF adheres to stringent sustainability criteria for biomass usage, ensuring that the bioethanol they procure does not compete with food production. Bioethanol is largely produced from by-products of starch production, lower quality grains, or molasses, none of which are utilized in food production. Additionally, grains that are unsuitable for food or feed purposes can be repurposed for bioethanol production, aligning with BASF's commitment to sustainability and responsible resource management.

Dr. Reiner Geier, Senior Vice President of Industrial Petrochemicals Europe, emphasized the company's commitment to sustainability with the introduction of bio-based Ethyl Acrylate (EA). He highlighted that this readily available drop-in solution would help customers meet their sustainability goals while also marking a significant step in the company’s own sustainability journey. Dr. Geier announced that starting from Q4 2024, the company will phase out fossil-based EA entirely, shifting exclusively to bio-based Ethyl Acrylate. This move signals the company's dedication to driving positive change in the market and supporting the broader transition to more sustainable industrial practices.

BASF’s bio-based Ethyl Acrylate (EA) is a versatile product with a wide application range, making it ideal for various polymer dispersion uses. It is particularly well-suited for the Coatings and Adhesives industries, which are the primary markets for this innovative material. In recognition of its sustainability, BASF's bio-based EA received the prestigious ‘OK biobased’ certification from TÜV Austria in March 2024. This certification underscores the product's commitment to environmental responsibility, as it is derived from renewable resources.