Changhua Commences Construction of China's First Plant for CO2-Based Polyols

Changhua Chemical is commencing the construction of China’s inaugural production facility for eco-friendly polyols derived from renewable carbon sources. Situated in Lianyungang, this cutting-edge facility will manufacture Carnol™, a novel series of polycarbonate ether (PCE) polyols designed to emit 20-30% less greenhouse gases than conventional chemical processes.

Carnol™ utilizes proprietary technology and catalysts from Econic Technologies, enabling the substitution of fossil feedstocks with captured CO2. Changhua's new facility aims to achieve initial commercial production of approximately 80,000 tons per year by early 2025, with plans to scale up to over 1 million tons in the future.

Carnol™ polyols are versatile materials suitable for producing polyurethane foams, coatings, and elastomers, offering enhanced environmental benefits and performance attributes. These polyols contribute to reducing carbon footprints and supporting circular design principles by sequestering CO2 from the atmosphere into products such as furniture, mattresses, automotive components, apparel, footwear, and construction materials. Incorporating captured carbon at a molecular level allows formulators to precisely adjust and improve performance characteristics, including mattress foam comfort, coating durability, and tensile strength across diverse applications.

Carnol™ polyols are compatible with innovative recycling technologies and can be blended with recycled and bio-based polyols to further reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

“The chemical industry in China is crucial for advancing both national and global sustainability objectives. Changhua Chemical takes pride in pioneering the introduction of innovative sustainable polyols. Carnol™ polyols will enable manufacturers in various industries to bring innovative solutions to market that produce fewer greenhouse gases and generate less waste,” stated Dr. Gu, Chairman and Owner of Changhua Group.

“Climate change is one of the most critical challenges of our time. Changhua Chemical demonstrates exceptional leadership by investing in innovative technologies that will aid in reducing carbon emissions and fostering sustainable solutions for future generations,” said Keith Wiggins, CEO of Econic Technologies.

Changhua Chemical is a premier supplier of high-quality polyether polyol, with its materials and application solutions being integral to everyday life. Innovation and sustainable development propel the ongoing enhancement of Changhua Chemical’s products, processes, and facilities. A holding subsidiary of Jiangsu Changshun Group, Changhua Chemical was established in 2010 and is situated in the Yangtze River Chemical Industrial Park, a provincial fine chemical park surrounding the port in Zhangjiagang city, Jiangsu Province.

Econic Technologies, a UK-based company focused on advanced carbon renewal solutions. Its groundbreaking catalyst and process technology enable manufacturers to create polymers using CO2 instead of petrochemicals, enhancing sustainability and producing cost-effective, high-performance end products. Econic licenses its technology to polyol and surfactant manufacturers, who supply some of the world's most renowned consumer brands. Founded in 2011 by Dr. Charlotte Williams at Imperial College London, Econic is recognized as part of Cleantech Group’s Global Cleantech 100. The company’s global headquarters are located in Alderley Park, near Manchester, UK.