Publications

First Relement patent granted

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 10:06:35 GMT

Relement proudly announces its first granted patent. This milestone significantly strengthens our existing intellectual property portfolio, which consists of several exclusively licensed patent families from TNO.

Since our inception, with the supervision of our CTO Stefano Iannacone, we have invested in building a robust patent portfolio and deep expertise to secure Relement’ future and create unique value for both our partners and customers.

We build further on our furfural based Diels-Alder platform technology that unlocks several novel aromatic ingredients suitable for various applications. Our launching product is called bio MPA (3-methylphthalic anhydride).

Why it matters?

This newly granted patent reinforces our position as an innovator. And it underlines our commitment to developing chemical ingredients that enable improving the performance and eco-footprint of hard-to-recycle coatings, composites & more.

Meet Dave Dijkhuis: our new Business development & sales managerr

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 10:06:13 GMT

Relement is very happy that Dave Dijkhuis joined our Relement team. He brings over 25 years of technical sales experience to our company. Get to know him through this interview.

What is your role at Relement?

My role as business development & sales manager er is to commercialize our launching product bio MPA, working closely with customers and end-users across Europe. Our primary market will be coatings, so I will focus primarily on this market.

What is your background?

I have gained more than 25 years experience in technical commercial leadership roles in specialty materials serving multiple industries. This includes roles with Momentive in silicone coatings, additives, elastomers, with EP Minerals in specialty minerals for filtration, coatings and plastics, and with Miwon Europe in specialty a crylates for UV-cure coatings. In my last role with Anton Paar, I worked closely with customers in R&D and QC laboratories at industrial customers and universities, working on the forefront of technology. In addition, I support Siloxene, a start-up out of the Swiss EMPA institute to commercialize its functional silane dendrimers. I find it inspiring and fun to work on new technologies with an entrepreneurial team such as Relement.

What do you do in your freetime?

I volunteer as country manager India with not-for-profit organization PUM. We help local SMEs especially youth and female entrepreneurs with our team of experts to improve their business and achieve positive economic, social and environmental impact. During the weekend you can find me volunteering or running with the weekly Parkrun event in Rotterdam or on the water in the rowing boat on the Rotte river.

New Fieldtest for ACE application

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 09:49:18 GMT

Fieldtest for ACE application accomplished

Baril Coatings, Worlée-Chemie and Relement joined forces again and successfully demonstrated a cutting-edge bio MPA based waterborne alkyd industrial coating for ACE application.
In collaboration with Shipcoat B.V. and Brassto BV. several metal pipes were coated which soon will be in use in Rotterdam (NL) at a marketplace...

At the heart of this nove lperformacne waterborne alkyd coating is Relement’s launching product bio MPA (3-methylphthalic anhydride). Its slightly different molecular structure compared to fossil-based alternatives delivers improved performance without compromise. Incorporated into Worlée Chemie’s resin, it allowed Baril Coatings to create a waterborne alkyd coating that dramatically reduces hazardous substances, uses almost no solvents, and emits very low VOCs.

IThis fieldtest shows important proof of applicability of bio MPA in performacne coatings suitable for ACE applications. It is an important step towards commercial introduction.

Relement secures 5.4 M€ seed investment

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 10:01:09 GMT

Relement secures seed investment to scale Bio MPA for the coatings market

Dutch green chemical ingredients company Relement has secured an investment of 5.4 million Euro from investors KIKK Capital, Yield Lab Europe, Brabant Development Agency (BOM), TNO Ventures, and Relement Management. The funding consists of both new equity and conversion of existing loan agreements and will be used to scale up production of Relement’ first product called Bio MPA to make it available for the market.

Relement is a chemical pioneer in the field of specialty aromatics, for which there are no sustainable alternatives today. By using proprietary and patented technology, Relement can convert agricultural waste streams into bio-aromatics. These unique products not just improve the environmental profile and lower CO2 emissions, they enable higher performance of products such as coatings, adhesives and composite materials.

“This investment accelerates our mission to bring high‑performance, sustainable ingredients to market,” said Roger Blokland, CEO and co‑founder of Relement. “With help from our manufacturing partners, we will scale Bio MPA production and support coatings customers to deliver more value. The investors’ participation reflects growing confidence in Relement’s strategy as the company moves from pilots to commercial supply.”

“We invest in promising, scalable technology companies, led by experienced commercial teams, that have the potential to grow into a leader in its field. We are looking forward to add our considerable expertise to help Relement grow” says Johan Sebregts, managing partner at KIKK Capital

“In the future, farmers will not only produce food but also sustainable raw materials, Relement bridges the gap between farmers and such materials” according to Daan Wilms van Kersbergen, Yield Lab Europe

“Relement contributes directly to an unmet need in the circular economy and therefore potentially reduces the ecological foodprint of in an increasing number of companies. BOM has been supporting Relement since the early hour, and we are proud to contribute to the first winner of the LEVEL UP AWARDS”, Martijn van der Vleuten, investment manager, Brabant Development Agency (BOM)

“Relement has translated TNO innovation into a scalable route to Bio MPA. This investment round confirms confidence in the team and technology as they advance sustainable coatings and materials, impact we’re proud to support.” stated Hans Boumans, Director TNO Ventures

About Relement

Relement develops bio‑based chemical performance ingredients that enable manufacturers to improve product performance while reducing environmental impact—starting with Bio MPA for coatings. The company builds on a multi‑year R&D foundation and works with industry partners to bring sustainable aromatics to market.

Bio MPA (which is short for biobased 3-methylphthalic anhydride) is a novel, bio‑based ingredient that makes coating formulations stronger, harder, and faster‑drying. These benefits stem from Bio MPA’s unique structure, which increases crosslink density and reduces VOC through lower viscosity formulations. To this end, Relement is actively working with a number of leading coating companies. For more information, visit https://www.relement.eu/

About KIKK

KIKK Capital is a Deep Tech investor that partners with start-up companies to build strong, successful, and sustainable businesses. KIKK Capital supports ambitious, determined, and motivated management teams by providing not only the funding required for business growth but also by actively supporting and assisting in maximizing and leveraging growth opportunities. For more information, visit https://www.kikkcapital.com/

About Yield Lab Europe

Yield Lab Europe is an impact VC fund investing into early stage European AgriFoodTech companies, with the aim to make global food and agriculture production systems more sustainable and more efficient whilst improving profitability. Yield Lab Europe has offices in Ireland, the Netherlands and France and has made over 30 investments to date. For more information, visit https://theyieldlab.eu/

About BOM

Entrepreneurship is the driver of innovation – from sustainable food sources to a healthy future, climate-neutral energy, and developing promising key technologies. The Brabant Development Agency (BOM) ensures that startups playing a role in these fields receive the right support and funding to get off to a flying start and grow into scaleups, and that companies that aspire to go global can actually do so. BOM is an executive body of the Province of Brabant and the Ministry of Economic Affairs. For more information, https://www.bom.nl/

About TNO Ventures

TNO Ventures builds tech companies that matter. We turn TNO research into spin‑offs and support external startups through licenses and participations, opening access to TNO’s technology, expertise, and facilities. By bridging the “valley of death,” we accelerate the path from lab to market in partnership with investors and industry. For more information, visit https://ventures.tno.nl/

Media contact:

Roger Blokland • info@relement.eu • +316 1127 6055

Relement Unveils Bio MPA Innovation at European Coatings Show

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 12:55:12 GMT

At the European Coatings Show in Nuremberg, Relement’s launching product Bio MPA (3 methylphthalic anhydride) took centre stage at the Worlée Chemie and HOBUM Oleochemicals booths. Attendees were captivated by innovative products with this novel bio-based performance ingredient integrated into new resin solutions designed to revolutionize coatings and composites. At the Worlée booth one could see the new Concept Paint from Royal Van Wijhe Verf called BIOmotion70 as well as new innovative waterborne industrial alkydcoating for metal protection formulated by Baril Coatings. Hobum displayed a biobased composite door panel.

CEO Roger Blokland and CCO Monique Wekking represented Relement at the 2025 event, which drew >25,000 industry professionals. Witnessing Bio MPA showcased in both alkyd resins and composite materials firsthand was truly inspiring.

Further discussions and meetings at ECS centred on bio MPA integration into alkyd coating resins and broader resin systems, emphasizing its potential to enhance performance while reducing reliance on petrochemical precursors and as a result reducing CO2-footprint significantly.

Food for Thought: Building Future Alliances

At ECS, we engaged in forward-thinking exchanges across the value chain—from bio-based raw material sourcing to resin formulation and further commercial scale-up. There is a mutual interest in driving sustainability through innovation, deeper partnerships, and novel product development.

Notably, Worlée Chemie and Relement recently formalized an offtake agreement securing volumes of bio MPA from Relement’s first industrial production launch in 2026.

Field validation BIOmotion70 Concept Paint with Royal Van Wijhe Verf and Worlée Chemie

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 12:13:48 GMT

Dutch paint company Royal Van Wijhe Verf has been collaborating with Worlée Chemie and Relement over the last year to develop Concept Paint BIOmotion70. With our novel biobased ingredient bio MPA (3-methylphthalic anhydride) in a new Worlée alkyd resin, Dutch company Royal Van Wijhe Verf was enabled to develop BIOmotion70; a high-gloss exterior paint with 70% biobased content. It matches traditional alkyds in finish and durability while reducing fossil solvents by 85% to just 4%.

Validation BIOmotion70 with professional painters

BIOmotion70 has undergone successful field trial validation with professional painters from Dutch property maintenance companies SW Vastgoedverbetering and Koestr. Our CEO Roger Blokland and our CCO Monique Wekking were present at Royal Van Wijhe Verf to witness this validation field test.

Though BIOmotion70 is still in its “Concept Paint” phase, the painters responded enthusiastically—remarking, “You’re on the right track”—echoing above-average approval in terms of processing and result. It is important to Royal Van Wijhe Verf to include professional painters in the process early on and to listen to what they need to remain successful and distinctive. Valuable feedback was received so that Royal Van Wijhe Verf can further optimize the paint. Overall, the painters were very satisfied with the application and initial results. They did not expect such a sustainable synthetic paint to achieve such high performance.”

A Collaborative Effort

We believe genuine sustainability requires a value chain partnership approach: from raw material suppliers to applicators. Innovation is only successful when customers are open to it and accept new products. They way we collaborate with Worlée and Royal Van Wijhe Verf and their customers exemplifies this model.

It’s not enough for a product to be sustainable—it must also perform better and be accepted by its users. Including professional painters by Royal Van Wijhe Verf in the testing process, has not only built confidence, but provided insights that will be used to fine-tune performance.

Relement, Worlée and Royal Van Wijhe Verf will continue joint efforts to launch the new Concept Paint BIOmotion70 on the market.

For more information please contact our CCO Monique Wekking: monique.wekking@relement.eu

Meet Amyke Veurink: our new Senior Technical Sales Support Manager

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 15:18:29 GMT

Relement is very happy that Amyke Veurink joined our team since June 1st. She brings over 25 years of technical coating application experience to our team. Get to know her through this interview.

How has your career developed so far?

I have worked for large and smaller companies, binder manufacturers and paint producers, like Akzo Nobel, DSM (now Covestro), Holland Colours and Van Wijhe Verf. I started as a researcher into coating properties and how to influence them by the adjustments of coating formulations. Also, I determined the properties of coating binders to steer the development in the right direction. Later I increased my interest in more fundamental studies and was project leader and team leader.

At Relement I can work exactly in my field of knowledge, but on a new subject, a new green ingredient for binders. I like this a lot, and I am very lucky to have found such a professional and nice team of colleagues.

What is your role at Relement?

I am a Senior Technical Sales Support Manager. Relement is on a mission to change the world of aromatic chemicals and is a frontrunner in renewable chemistry by creating aromatics from non-food biobased raw materials. These biobased aromatics are the missing renewable element for many products such as coatings, adhesives, and other materials. My focus is to investigate and understand the technical aspects of resin production with our launching product bio MPA (3-methylphthalic anhydride) and to increase the knowledge about the technical advantages of using bio MPA in end applications of our customers.

What do you want to achieve at Relement?

We see significant improvements with bio MPA compared to the fossil equivalent PA in various applications and I want to know the underlying reason. For this I will partner in projects with Applied Universities and Research Institutes. With this information, I will develop bio MPA user guides for our customers to help them understand how to process and use our product bio MPA. At the moment my focus is on Relement's launching market alkyd coatings.

5 years of Relement: Interview with CEO Roger Blokland

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 14:36:47 GMT

The Relement team celebrated its first lustrum.
Our CEO Roger Blokland took a moment to reflect on the past five years.

5 years of Relement: what was the 'aha' moment that led to its birth?

Sustainable materials offer huge potential, but customers buy value, not just sustainability. The moment I realized our biobased products could improve performance in hard-to-recycle materials, the opportunity became clear: combining sustainability and performance.

How has your vision for Relement evolved?

My vision remains the same: building the sustainable specialty chemicals company of the future, based on furfural. What changed is the focus—from being a green alternative to emphasizing the unique performance of our products. But our customers’ challenge is still the same: make very hard-to-recycle materials like coatings more sustainable.

What strategic pivot made the biggest impact?

Shifting to contract manufacturing. Letting go of our own facility significantly lowered capital needs, aligned better with venture funding, and made entry easier—especially once we proved our product works in batch-wise processing - which is typical for contract manufacturing.

What was the most unexpected lesson in year one?

CEOs spend 95% of their time fundraising. The other 100% is for running the company. ��

And the most unexpected milestone?

Discovering our first product added crosslinking functionality—a game changer for material strength and durability. This insight helped secure our first off-take agreement with Worlée.

How has your company culture evolved?

We focus on transparency and continuous improvement. Feedback is built into our daily rhythm because we believe learning never stops—and that’s how you build excellence.

What makes a great co-founder team?

Persistence is key. Co-founders must keep pushing through challenges. We also believe in diverse teams. We’ve analyzed our strengths and gaps to keep growing, supported by a community of peers who generously share insights. We try to do the same.

And as last, what is your dream for Relement?

To build a successful, sustainable specialty chemicals company that sets new standards—and is a fun, challenging place to work!

Relement collaborates with Royal Van Wijhe Verf and Worlée Chemie

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 11:37:55 GMT

Relement collaborated with paint & coating company Royal Van Wijhe Verf and resin manufacturer Worlée Chemie to unveil a groundbreaking new biobased alkyd paint called BIOmotion70. With BIOmotion70, an 85% reduction in fossil solvent is achieved. Only 4% of that remains. This paint, with a reduction of the fossil content of approximately 50%, is a major step towards a fossil-free (paint) world.”

This coating achieves performance close to Van Wijhe’s best performing flagship product, LBH SDT Ultra Gloss Paint, while being significantly more environmentally friendly.

The BIOmotion70 concept paint, containing Relement's bio MPA, is made of 70% renewable materials according to the carbon 14 method, making it unique in the market. It offers excellent durability and quality, whilst reducing 60% solvent content. Relement’s launching performance ingredient bio MPA is the key enabler for achieving this result. The concept paint is a durable high gloss coating for exterior timber and is intended for professional painters, real estate maintenance management as well as quality-conscious consumers.

Key Features:

Bio MPA - Enabling ingredient BIOmotion70 incorporates bio MPA, replacing traditional petrochemical components. Bio MPA enables a low viscous alkyd resin, which results in the durable BIOmotion70 paint with only 4% petrochemical solvent (down from 30%).

Durability BIOmotion70 has been extensively tested. Excellent drying at low temperatures, processability, flow and other properties are in line with current solvent-borne systems. The Concept Paint provides the ‘bulging gloss’ that is so desired by painters. We tested outdoor durability with rapid ageing. This is better than the known market references and it approaches the quality of our LBH SDT Ultra High Gloss Paint.

Sustainability BIOmotion70, once commercially on the market can achieve an unique 3-star "OK Biobased" TÜV rating (C14 measured), with potential for further improvement.

For more information please contact our CCO Monique Wekking: monique.wekking@relement.eu

Relement contracts Weylchem-Allessa for production bio MPA

roger.blokland@tno.nl — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 07:57:24 GMT

Relement team is happy to announce we have contracted Weylchem-Allessa GmbH in Germany, to initiate industrial-scale production of our launching product bio MPA (3-methylphthalic anhydride).

The first ton-scale production campaign is planned for late 2025, targeting commercial market introduction of bio MPA. For the production of bio MPA standard chemical unit operations are needed. Allessa (part of Weylchem Group) has extensive expertise and capabilities in chemical contract manufacturing that will ensure efficient large-scale production of bio MPA while upholding Relement’ high standards for quality and sustainability.

Relement’ outsourcing strategy reduces time-to-market significantly compared to building our own flagship plant. We are impressed with Allessa’s capabilities and professionalism, which are a good fit with Relement’ needs. Furthermore, the close distance between Allessa and our largest customers will further facilitate logistics and communication.

We are excited about the next step for our company. We are building a world scale, sustainable valuable chemical ingredients business. Our unique bio aromatic ingredients improve sustainability and product performance for e.g. coatings, adhesives and composite materials.

For more information please contact our CTO Stefano Iannacone: stefano.iannacone@relement.eu

Pre-order bio MPA

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 12:53:01 GMT

Relement has contracted Weylchem-Allessa GmbH as Contract Manufacturing Organisation. Ton-scale industrial production of our launching product bio MPA (3-methylphthalic anhydride) will start in 2026.

It is possible to pre-order sample material now to start a labscreening or a pilot. Also, offtake agreements can be negotiated.

Please indicate to us the volume bio MPA you would like to purchase to boost performance ánd sustainability of your products.

Please fill in the form below and we will contact you as soon as possible.

Relement and Worlée sign offtake agreement

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 12:43:45 GMT

Relement is pleased to announce the signing of an offtake agreement with Worlée Chemie GmbH, a leading German chemical company. The agreement secures a fixed volume of bio MPA, a novel high performance biobased ingredient for use in coating resins .

Bio MPA, our launching product, is scheduled for ton-scale production by late 2025 via contract manufacturing. This innovative material is designed to replace fossil-based components in alkyd resins, offering improved sustainability alongside performance benefits. Over the past four years, Relement and Worlée have worked closely to integrate bio MPA into coating resins, achieving results such as enhanced hardness, lower viscosity for reduced solvent use, faster drying times, and improved gloss.

Worlée plans to introduce a range of alkyd resins featuring bio MPA to selected European coating formulators. The agreement also sets the stage for further development of resins aimed at a wider range of applications, underlining both companies’ commitment to sustainable innovation in the coatings industry.

Joachim Freude, Managing director at Worlée Chemie, commented:

“We are delighted to introduce new biobased alkyd resins on the market that will allow our customers to create more sustainable coatings without compromising on quality. Bio MPA is a key step toward replacing fossil-based ingredients in our formulations.”

We are very excited to expand our partnership with Worlée, it is an important milestone. It brings us closer to the commercialization of bio MPA and demonstrates the value of strong partnerships in building a sustainable, biobased value chain. We are proud to work with Worlée to meet the growing demand for greener and more efficient products.

For more information please contact our CCO Monique wekking: monique.wekking@relement.eu

Bio MPA in polyols for PUR and PIR foams

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 15:03:41 GMT

Relement has successfully integrated bio MPA (biobased 3-methylphthalic anhydride) in a (polyester, polyether) polyol for use in polyurethane (PUR) and polyisocyanurate (PIR) rigid foams. Such foams are often used as insulation material in buildings.

Since there is more attention for sustainable building materials and energy conservation measures, increasing the biobased content of such materials is of interest. Petrochemical phthalic anhydride is often used as an ingredient in aromatic, rigid PUR and PIR foam. Relement’s launching product bio MPA can be used as a biobased substitute and performance enhancer. Due to steric hindrance of the additional methyl group in bio MPA compared to phthalic anhydride, it is expected that bio MPA based insulation foams will be more rigid, improving the compressive and tensile properties and increasing the glass transition temperature. In collaboration with Avans Applied University in the Netherlands, Relement successfully synthesized basic polyester polyols with bio MPA.

Relement won a Tech Tour Bio-Based Industries 2024 Award

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 14:25:27 GMT

Relement is honored and grateful to be among the winners of the Tech Tour Bio-Based Industries 2024 Award.

The Tech Tour event highlighted >30 selected companies at the forefront of bio-based innovation, chosen through a rigorous selection process led by a panel of active investors.

Our CEO Roger Blokland was on site to present our activities. He pitched about transforming sustainable biomass residues into high-performance bio-aromatics for coatings, adhesives, and materials, offering a renewable alternative to fossil-based ingredients while also enhancing product performance.

The expert jury acknowledged Relement as one of the companies that is setting new benchmarks in sustainability, circular materials, and green technology.

The Tech Tour Bio-based Industries 2024 event was co-organized by Bio-based Industries Consortium (BIC) and co-hosted by Circular Valley and City of Wuppertal, as well as supported by partners like Bayer, DWNRW, ZAZ Ventures, and Shaping Bio.

Of course, we would also like to congratulate the other winners: Arda Biomaterials, Blue Ocean Closures, Mevaldi, Origin by Ocean, Quorium and SenseUP Biotechnology.

Collaboration project with Fontys University of Applied Sciences completed

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 08:03:48 GMT

Relement has completed its first collaboration project with Fontys University of Applied Sciences, Eindhoven (The Netherlands). During a 18 months period, a team of teachers and 21 students worked on alkyd coating research based on Relement’ launching product bio MPA.

To accelerate the research, coating experts Joost van Dijk (Puroc) and Henk van den Haak (Resinconsult) advised the students with experimental setup and formulation work. A wealth of knowledge has been created supporting the commercial use of bio MPA in performance alkyd coatings.

The Relement team enjoyed the project and is convinced about the effectiveness of collaborative applied research. We are thankful with at least 21 new ambassadors for sustainable chemistry!

This project is partially funded with subsidy from KIEM GoChem, a joint subsidy program from the Dutch Regieorgaan SIA and ChemistryNL.

Bio MPA production process improved

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 10:28:57 GMT

Relement has contracted R&D partners to further optimize the production process for our launching product bio MPA (3-methylphthalic anhydride), enabling us to commence industrial-scale manufacturing soon.

The efforts resulted in:

a leaner and more robust process;
increased bio MPA product recovery;
reduced formation of byproducts such as humins;
reduced the use of organic solvents;
reduced energy requirement.

After the summer, we will select a Contract Manufacturing Organisation to begin the production of our launching product bio MPA.

Join us on our mission towards a greener chemical future. Get in touch if you would like to purchase bio MPA for your coating, adhesive or composite resin.

For more information please contact our CTO Stefano Iannacone: Stefano.iannacone@relement.eu

HOBUM and Relement created high performing biobased composite material

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 10:29:05 GMT

Relement achieved an important milestone by successfully demonstrating the use of our ingredient bio MPA in high-quality composite materials. Relement worked with Hobum to create this game-changing material: a high-performance, biobased composite material with a glass transition temperature of >110 degrees Celsius.

Hobum aimed to develop composites parts made of plant fibres and a vegetable oil-based resins using a resin-transfer moulding process to create a bisphenol A-free product. Hobum reached out to Relement for the utilisation of our ingredient bio MPA to replace fossil-based anhydrides such as MHHPA in their resins.

After 1.5 year of testing of various formulations, the partnership hit a breakthrough with a recipe based on admergenic acid (ADA), epoxidized linseed oil (ELO) and Relement’s ingredient 3-methylphthalic anhydride (bio MPA). This resulted in a prototype car interior panel part. The composite material reached the highest % biobased (85%) and the highest glass transition temperature (Tg 95-120 °C depending on catalyst and temperature). A higher Tg results in enhanced strength, stiffness and heat resistance.

There is a strong demand worldwide on availability of lightweight composite materials with high performance. Bio MPA can be a gamechanger for this industry. HOBUM recently showed all technical data at their HOBUM Innovation Exchange Webinar. Please view the complete record using the link below:

Akzo Nobel entered into a collaboration with Relement

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 10:38:12 GMT

Following meetings with AkzoNobel, Relement is excited to note that AkzoNobel has been following our progress and technology development to date with interest.

Relement and Akzo Nobel are working together to explore use of Relement's launching product bio MPA (3-methylphthalic anhydride) in coatings and measure the impact of our bio MPA in coating performances. Together, we have also identified a number of other opportunities that can broaden the scope of this partnership and add value in multiple areas.

For more information please contact our Chief Commercial Officer Monique Wekking: monique.wekking@relement.eu

Relement part of AROMATICS consortium

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 11:35:25 GMT

We are excited to be part of the consortium AROMATICS in which 3 promising bio-aromatics production platforms will be further developed and scaled, including furfural based aromatics such as our launching product bio MPA

The consortium consists of 14 partners and the entire value chain is on board including brandowners. We are looking forward to explore new applications based on bio MPA and bio HMA.

AROMATICS stands for Aromatic Renewables as an Opportunity for MATerials with Improved Circularity and Sustainability and this 3-year project is performed with MOOI-funding from the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs & Climate.

First biobased industrial coating demonstrated with partners Worlée Chemie and Baril Coatings

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 10:34:41 GMT

An important milestone for Relement has been achieved: the successful demonstration of bio MPA in industrial coatings! Relement teamed up with Worlée Chemie and Baril Coatings to successfully demonstrate this game-changer industrial coating: a first of a kind, high performance, waterborne alkyd coating. Incorporating our ingredient bio MPA to replace the fossil-based ingredient phthalic anhydride.

After three years of tinkering and testing various formulas, the partnership hit a breakthrough with a pilot run of this eco-coating. And as a final check, it is showcased by Straalbedrijf Boxtel on an electric wheelloader made by TOBROCO-GIANT. A successful demonstration that proofs industrial performance coatings can be sustainable. It contains the highest percentage biobased content ever achieved. This coating saves the planet while looking slick.

For many years the coating resin industry tried to replace fossil phthalic anhydride. Our launching product bio MPA (3-methyl phthalic anhydride) turns out it to be a renewable solution: it not only replaces fossil-based ingredients but on top of that a waterborne coating has been developed to lower emissions and improve the safety profile. Additionally, other benefits were found that can be attributed to the use of bio MPA.

Relement is committed to get rid of fossil resources, starting with fossil free coatings. This demonstration is a major milestone for Relement towards achieving this goal and is proof that it can be done.

Relement is now ready to scale up the production of bio MPA to ton-scale, which will lead to the commercial introduction of much more sustainable coatings, composite resins, adhesives and more.

This partnership was part of the Bright Coatings project, see www.brightcoatings.eu

Pre-order bio MPA from our 2024 production

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 10:33:12 GMT

Relement is in the final stage of selecting a European Contract Manufacturing Organisation that will produce our launching product bio MPA at ton-scale in 2024.

It is possible to pre-order samples now.

Please indicate to us the volume bio MPA you would like to purchase in 2024 to boost the sustainability and performance of your products. Fill in the form below:

Carbon footprint study conducted for product bio MPA

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 15:05:04 GMT

Relement conducted a carbon footprint analysis as part of the initial Life Cycle Assessment for our launching product bio MPA (3-methylphthalic anhydride)

A cradle-to-grave analysis has been carried out by E-hoch-3 and confirms: the production of specialty bio-aromatics from furfural, derived from non-edible residual streams, results in a significant reduction in CO2 emissions compared to fossil equivalent.

It’s Relement’s mission to change the world, starting with fossil free coatings. We provide the missing renewable element for coatings and more. Our specialty bio-aromatic products provide an unmatched combination of sustainability and performance.

All elements matter.

Are you interested in the details and would you like to join us and green the chemical industry together?

Please contact Roger Blokland for more information at roger.blokland@relement.eu

Relement selected for the Pole Position batch 2023 of Techleap.nl

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 12:48:16 GMT

Relement is one of the 10 startups selected for the Dutch Pole Position Greentech Program of Techleap.nl in 2023. This batch showcases the brightest minds and boldest innovations with a focus on sustainability and environmental impact in the Netherlands.

Relement is part of this the Greentech Pole Position program together with CarbonX, CyBe Construction, OneThird , Photanol, QuinteQ Energy, SeaQurrent®, Tarnoc, RIFT and Thorizon.

The team will experienced coaches, entrepeneurs, investors and of course it is always good to challenge and learn from other passionate deep tech entrepreneurs.

The program runs until January 2024 and will accelerate our biobased scale-up journey.

Relement received award for most promising startup in Brabant

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 11:52:49 GMT

We are honoured that Relement has won the prestigious Brabant40 award. The Dutch Minister of Economic Affairs and Climate Mickey Adriaansens handed over the award to our CEO Roger Blokland at the Level UP Event on September 25th in front of 750 startups, investors and other stakeholders.

Relement was nominated as 1 of the 40 most promising start-ups in the province of North Brabant, next to AI, medtech, SAAS and hardware deeptech startup companies. An expert jury selected 3 companies to pitch on stage in front of the audience from which Relement was selected as winner. The first response of our CEO Roger Blokland was “wow, this is really unexpected! All 40 nominated startups deserve to be winners, since change in the world is needed. Today we are the lucky ones, fantastic”

The jury recognised the impact Relement can make with their company in providing the missing renewable element for coatings and more.

This award is a great recognition to our Relement team and our commitment to getting rid of fossil resources by introducing bio-aromatic ingredients for coatings and more. Our launching product bio MPA provides an unmatched combination of sustainability and improved performance. All elements matter.

A big thank you to everyone who has supported us on our journey so far!

Furthermore, we also congratulate the runners-up AgroExact and VivArt-X.

Relement is advancing into the next level – seeking manufacturing partnerships.

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 13:38:52 GMT

Following the successful technology demonstration at pilot scale, Relement is now ready to take the launching product bio MPA to the market. In order to expedite the introduction and adoption of this innovative solution, Relement is actively seeking a manufacturing partner to outsource the production process.

Relement aims to leverage their expertise and make use of existing manufacturing facilities b y collaborating with a company specialized in chemical manufacturing processes, This strategic decision holds several key advantages. First, it enables us to accelerate the market entry of bio MPA. Second, Relement will be able to minimize capital investments, thereby reducing the risks associated with scaling up operations.

By promoting the use of our launching product bio MPA and supporting the development of sustainable alternatives, we contribute to a greener and more responsible economy. Our commitment to core values, such as co-creation, is exemplified by the intention to co-operate with a manufacturing partner.

Relement created a whitepaper together with Dutch impact investor Invest-NL on why outsourcing can be a winning strategy especially for chemical start-ups. Relement wants to inspire other chemical start-ups to consider alternative scaling up routes. To download the whitepaper, follow the link below:

Download whitepaper

For more information, please contact CTO Stefano Iannacone: Stefano.iannacone@relement.eu

Relement featured in newly launched SER podcast

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 13:20:59 GMT

Our Chief Commercial Officer, Monique Wekking, was recently featured in the newly launched "Impact in the Polder" podcast by the Social and Economic Council (SER) of the Netherlands. The SER, which provides advice on social and economic policy to the Dutch Government and Parliament, released their recommendations on the Dutch National Program Circular Economy in April 2023. They highlighted the lagging progress in the chemical transition compared to the energy transition .

In light of this, the SER created a podcast dedicated to exploring the chemical transition and circularity. Hosted by Marnix Kluiters, the podcast features interviews with Professor Henri de Groot from the University of Amsterdam, Joshua van der Hurk, the Founder of Bamboovement, and our CCO, Monique Wekking. During her interview, Monique had the opportunity to discuss our Relement mission and our efforts to revolutionize the chemical industry by introducing bio-aromatics, the crucial renewable biobased component for coatings and more.

The podcast, -in Dutch language only, is available on various podcast platforms and can also be accessed on the SER website:

(https://www.ser.nl/nl/actueel/zicht/podcast)

Relement successfully completed pilot plant run for bio MPA

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 10:41:24 GMT

Relement proudly announces a major milestone achieved: the successful completion of a ground-breaking pilot plant run to produce 3-methylphthalic anhydride (bio MPA). Last year, Relement contracted Solvay Research and Innovation Centre in Lyon (F) for this scale-up. This achievement marks a significant step towards revolutionizing the chemicals industry with our sustainable and innovative solutions, starting with bio MPA which is a suitable ingredient for coating resins, epoxies, polyols and more.

After extensive laboratory studies, Relement gave the green light to proceed with the pilot plant run. Throughout this process, several important optimizations to enhance the production process were implemented. Relement’ technology, hailed as "marvellous" by the experienced pilot plant crew, delivered flawless execution and consistent, robust production runs.

What sets the bio MPA process apart is its accessibility. By utilizing commonly used industry-standard equipment, Relement has developed a solution that enables larger contract manufacturing organizations to produce substantial quantities of bio MPA. This accessibility positions Relement as a company capable to meet the increasing demand for sustainable chemical solutions. Bio MPA increases the biobased content of an application, and additionally, it can also boost the performance.

The successful completed pilot plant run provided Relement 10s of Kgs of sample material for customers. With the delivery of the technology package to produce bio MPA, Relement is now ready to explore strategic partnerships with contract manufacturing organisations.

Relement expresses gratitude to the Solvay R&IC team for their invaluable knowledge, support, and assistance throughout this endeavour. Their assistance has been instrumental in propelling us closer to our goal. Relement dares to inspire: all chemistry green!

Basis of design for the first commercial bio-aromatics plant completed

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 16:36:05 GMT

An important milestone for Relement has been completed: a conceptual process design for the first commercial plant for the production of specialty bio-aromatics is in place. Relement has recently completed, together with Dutch engineering company TransitionHERO, the basis of design for a flagship plant capable of producing 5.000 ton of bio-aromatic MPA (3-methylphthalic anhydride) and 1.000 ton of bio-aromatic HMA (hemimellitic acid) per year. The manufacturing process starts with the intake of bio-based furfural, a promising raw material for bio-based chemicals that is made entirely from agricultural non-edible residues such as bagasse, wood residues, sugar beet pulp, etc. The design includes a cost estimate for the investment, operational costs and a preliminary CO ₂ -footprint calculation.

Relement coordinated a consortium consisting of Stichting Circular Biobased Delta, Catalok and TNO to make this happen. Various technologies for the production of the bio-aromatics were evaluated. Subcontractor TransitionHERO integrated all data into a conceptual process design, to identify the main cost drivers, and to scale up the design from bench scale to a flagship plant for the production of bio-aromatics MPA and HMA.

Conclusion and way forward

The bio-aromatics flagship plant is commercially feasible. Due to the initial investment required, start-up Relement has decided to pivot its strategy into scaling up bio-aromatics by pursuing an asset light strategy. Relement’s choice is to set up production for our launching product bio MPA first, making use of a contract manufacturing organization. Our time to market for bio MPA will be shortened to 2024 which is an advantage for our launching customers. Relement is currently in the phase of selecting the right production partner. After bio MPA has been successfully launched at scale, Relement will revisit the opportunity to build a dedicated production facility.

It is Relement’s mission to change the world, starting with fossil free coatings. We are crazy about chemistry and serious about getting rid of fossil resources. We provide the missing renewable element for coatings. Our specialty bio-aromatic products provide an unmatched combination of sustainability and coating performance. All elements matter.

Are you looking forward to joining us on our scale-up journey and accelerating the development and commercial implementation of bio MPA? Please contact us for more information: Roger Blokland at roger.blokland@relement.eu

Consortium partners for conceptual process design

Subcontractor

This project is made possible by a financial contribution from Topsector Energie from the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs

Relement featured in Tecnon Orbichem blog about biobased phthalic anhydride

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 08:11:29 GMT

Relement is happy to be featured by Tecnon Orbichem in their recent elaborate blog by Jane Denny regarding biobased phthalic anhydride. Tecnon Orbichem data platform OrbiChem360 calculates global phthalic anhydride production capacity at 6.4 million metric tons in 2022 – over half in China or Northeast Asia, and they confirm this is all coming from petrochemical-based sources. Since there are currently no commercial biobased phthalic anhydride (PA) products available, a non-fossil aromatic could prove a gamechanger.

Tecnon OrbiChem’s PA expert Ben Edmunds says although our Relement MPA innovation is still too early in development, many of his contacts are interested to know more. If Relement’s bio-aromatic MPA is indeed capable of outperforming traditional PA for particular end-use industries, then those downstream markets will likely be willing to pay a premium over traditional PA for that improved performance. Read the complete blog here:

https://www.orbichem.com/blog/a-green-future-for-phthalic-anhydride-biomass-boost

Relement wins game-changer company award at TechTour Bioeconomy

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 12:12:19 GMT

Relement won an award as game-changer company at TechTour Bioeconomy held at October 5 ^th 2022 in Wuppertal. The event showcased 30+ of the best in class emerging bioeconomy companies and were divided amongst topics Agro-industry & Forestry, Bio-based chemicals, Home & personal Care and Other bio-economy.

For more than 20 years TechTour has been bringing together the most active corporates and investors in Europe and connecting them with the most promising entrepreneurs to establish smart partnerships and drive innovation. It’s one of the largest investor-oriented communities in Europe.

An independent jury panel of industry and venture experts selected Relement, represented by CEO Roger Blokland, to receive the Award in the Field of Bio-based chemicals for its work on sustainable biobased aromatics with improved performance compared to fossil oil products. The jury valued the inspirational pitch from Roger Blokland showing a clear business opportunity for Relement’s launching ingredient bio MPA for products like coatings, lubricants and adhesives and having a solid view on the path forwards for successful exploitation.

Relement is thankful to the organization consisting of TechTour, MPowerBIO, Circular Valley and Biobased Industries for recognising the potential of our specialty bio-aromatics and we are even more energised to create impact and contribute our share in changing the future of chemical industry starting with fossil free coatings.

And last but not least we congratulate the other award winners of TechTour Bioeconomy : BIOWEG, Bright Day Graphene, FarmInsect, GS Bavaria, Niskus Biotec, Pherosyn, Sophie’s BioNutrients and Traceless Materials.

Relement raises 1 million Euro seed round to scale-up renewable coating ingredient

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 04:21:31 GMT

Sustainable chemicals company Relement announces closing of its seed financing round by adding Brabant Startup Fonds (BSF), the Brabant Development Agency (BOM) and TNO as early investors. Smart Industries Fund, managed by Innovation Industries, already invested into Relement last year. In addition, Rabobank has recently provided an Innovation Loan to Relement. The total investment amount adds up to 1 million Euro.

This investment will allow Relement to proceed with scaling-up its launch product named bio MPA. It will also enable pre-commercial trials with selected front runner coating resin customers. Bio MPA is a unique bio-based chemical ingredient. It provides the missing link to make bio-based alkyd coatings. By replacing fossil oil based ingredients, a significant reduction of the coating CO2-footprint will be achieved. In addition, bio MPA will improve key properties of paint and coating such as scratch resistance.

Roger Blokland, CEO Relement: “The Relement team is very pleased with the support provided by our investment partners. These early and local investors subscribe to our mission, which is to provide sustainable chemical ingredients for everyday products which are difficult to recycle. The chemical industry is at the brink of a massive change towards sustainable products and Relement will be providing a solution for key markets.”

Relement, a spin-off from the Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), is building on 7 years of research and development by TNO (Biorizon). Relement will provide sustainable chemical ingredients for everyday products such as coatings, adhesives, insulation materials, lubricants and many more. These are very difficult to recycle products and require better, more sustainable ingredients to lower their CO2-footprint. Relement will offer sustainable chemical ingredients made from locally sourced agricultural non-edible residues, not fossil oil.

Relement contracts Solvay Research & Innovation Centre Lyon to scale-up bio MPA manufacturing

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 07:39:29 GMT

Relement B.V., a technology company focused on renewable chemistry, announces that it has selected Solvay Research & Innovation Centre with the help of Dutch impact investor Invest-NL, to carry out process optimization work. Solvay R&IC will assist with the scale-up of its proprietary product 3-methylphthalic anhydride (bio MPA). Relement has received support from Invest-NL for this scale-up work, which is a key milestone to become production ready.

Relement offers a disruptive, renewable chemical ingredient called bio MPA (3-methyl phthalic anhydride). Bio MPA has the unique ability to replace the fossil ingredient phthalic anhydride in coatings, to make coatings more sustainable. In addition, bio MPA offers improved properties such as increased hardness of coatings. Coating customers have expressed interest to purchase bio MPA once the product becomes commercially available.

Relement CTO Stefano Iannacone explains “Carrying out process optimization studies are important milestones for bio MPA commercialization. In the chemical world, innovative start-ups like Relement often encounter financial hurdles to scale-up their production process. Typically, a pilot facility is needed which requires significant capital investment and resources. To minimize risks and to speed up our technology scale-up, we have therefore scouted the chemical innovation landscape and found that several large chemical companies have R&D assets and know how open for external selected collaborations. We believe that Solvay R&IC Lyon is a great partner to assist Relement in our journey towards commercial scale.”

Invest-NL Business Developer Guus Dubbink adds: “We helped Relement to develop an innovative new business model helping to overcome the first financial hurdles, based on outsourcing the demonstration step. Invest-NL supports Relement in its mission to commercialize and scale-up production. Furthermore, the learnings will be shared to the bio-based chemistry community, thereby helping similar Dutch start-ups.

Solvay is a science company whose technologies bring benefits to many aspects of daily life. The Group seeks to create sustainable shared value for all, notably through its Solvay One Planet roadmap crafted around three pillars: protecting the climate, preserving resources and fostering a better life. As stated by Grégory Landelle, Organic Chemistry and Process Development Lab Manager, "the mission of Solvay Research and Innovation Center of Lyon is to invent and design materials of the future, products and processes with the lowest environmental footprint during industrial production and consumer (re)use.

The Center is also actively engaged with external partners sharing the same values, with the aim of accompanying innovation actors in the development and scale-up of their products/processes. Relement, like Solvay, develops sustainable solutions based on innovative technologies using renewable products from biomass. Solvay is glad to support Relement in its development of bio MPA '', he concludes.

Are you interested in testing bio MPA in your application? Do you want to learn more about the bio MPA scale-up journey? Please contact Stefano Iannacone, CTO at Relement : stefano.iannacone@relement.eu

Pre-commercial demonstration of bio-aromatic MPA in a 100% sustainable alkyd coating

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 06:39:41 GMT

Relement is very excited to announce we have been awarded a React-EU Grant to start as coordinator of a great value-chain consortium the Bright Coatings project. Objective of the project is the realization of a pre-commercial demonstration for the production and application of the ‘missing-link’ in a 100% sustainable alkyd coating application: our biobased aromatic MPA, based on local available starting materials.

The coating industry is in an urgent need to lower the CO2-footprint. At end of life a coating will be burned as waste, since recycling is very difficult. This results to more CO ₂ in the air since coatings are made from fossil resources. Therefore, making biobased coatings is key. However, 1 important ingredient is missing to make a 100% sustainable coating, which is the chemical called aromatic. It is the aromatic that makes the coating glossy, scratch resistant and UV-stable.

Within the Bright Coatings project Relement will scale-up and demonstrate this missing link: the bio-aromatic MPA towards (sub)commercial scale (>100kg) production, which as of today has not been done before. Subsequently, bio-aromatic MPA will be formulated in a 100% sustainable alkyd coating. In doing so, the bio-aromatic MPA will be the first biobased aromatic product that can replace fossil phthalic anhydride in alkyd coating and that can be produced on industrial scale.

To achieve a sizable impact with this project, the full production chain for these coatings will be researched, developed, evaluated and improved upon. Non-beneficiary partners Straalbedrijf Boxtel and Tobroco Giant will be involved for the demonstration of the 100% sustainable alkyd coating on an electric wheel loader vehicle.

The starting material for biobased aromatic MPA is 2-methylfuran (2MF) which can be made from biobased furfural. For this reason, upcoming European biorefineries join this consortium to align with their local hemicellulose feedstock to convert it into 2MF.

It is expected that the Bright Coatings project will have a positive impact on the economy as well as any industry that is reliant on the use of specialty aromatics. This industry and market has been waiting for a long time on sustainable aromatic solutions. Through the establishment of the aforementioned local value-chain from biomass to coatings, this project contributes to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to making climate actions a reality such as the climate plan 55 % net reduction target as presented under the Fit for 55 package.

For more information please look at www.brightcoatings.eu
or contact Monique Wekking Monique.wekking@relement.eu I +31(0)6 468 473 58

Relement selected for Dutch chemical start-up stage

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 06:31:14 GMT

In October Relement has finished the first sample production campaign to produce >25 kg MPA at >99,5% purity of bio-aromatic 3-methylphthalic Anhydride (bio-MPA). Relement used Biorizon’s facilities at the Green Chemistry Campus in the Netherlands for this campaign.

ChemistryNL is the name of the Top Sector Chemistry and executes the mission-driven topsector and innovation policy of the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate in the Netherlands. ChemistryNL has the goal to come up with the best solutions for the business community, universities, research centers and the government and to work together on knowledge and innovation. The Top Sector approach is typically Dutch: open, inclusive and inventive.

For this brandnew start-up stage our CCO Monique Wekking explains in this video in very easy layman language the needs in coating industry and why the plant-based Relement solution can result in a 100% sustainable coating.

1st small production campaign bio-aromatic MPA realised

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 13:56:56 GMT

CTO Stefano Iannacone says he is happy with this initial production carried out with the assistance of TNO, allowing simultaneously tech transfer from TNO to the spin-off company Relement.

“It is exciting to learn about the Diels-Alder chemistry and process details to produce bio-aromatic MPA and the best way is to perform the actual process yourself. I can notice TNO has put a lot of effort in designing the chemistry and convert it into a workable process at Kg-scale and now I am keen to scale-up and improve this procedure to the next level”.

Relement will soon start scale-up projects and collaborations with leading chemical manufactures partners toward the next stage: bigger scale demonstration. In summer 2022 a process book will be ready to allow subsequent contract manufacturing of bio-aromatic MPA starting a ton-scale.

Nieuwe aliBio-aromatic 3-methylphthalic anhydride (bio-MPA) is the first bio-aromatic Relement will launch at the market, using its versatile platform technology. The ingredient can only be made via non-edible biomass residues and can be applied in applications like coatings, specialty polymers, adhesives and material resins.

Bio-MPA is thé missing ingredient to make a 100% renewable performance coating. Relement is the first company worldwide that can offer this biobased aromatic ingredient for coatings. Our ingredient is slightly different then the fossil ingredient, therefore it results in an even better coating. Costumer validation of bio-MPA show improved properties in coatings such as:

· Easier film spreadability due to lower viscosity

· Reduced yellowing effect due to UV exposure

· Enhanced hardness and film performance

External studies show bio-MPA can lower the CO ₂ -footprint with 3.1kg CO ₂ eq /kg bio-MPA compared to the fossil equivalent.
We will change the future of coating industry so that we can make a big step forward to a more sustainable planet now and in the future. All elements matter. That is Relement’s mission.

We encourage companies to take the opportunity to conduct application testing to evaluate the properties and benefits of bio-MPA in your application. Would you like to request a sample? Please contact us:

Monique Wekking I +31 (0)6 468 473 58 I monique.wekking@relement.eu

Relement has been awarded with NWO Take-off grant

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 09:10:32 GMT

Relement has been awarded with a 40kEUR NWO Take-off grant to establish a financial and business model to exploit our bio-aromatic 3-methylphthalic anhydride (3MPA) in coatings.

Recently, Relement participated in a kickoff meeting together with NWO Take-off team. The goal of this Grant is to validate the business case of our bio-aromatic 3-methylphthalic anhydride as ingredient for high performance alkyd and polyester coatings.

Bio-aromatic 3MPA is an interesting ingredient, it is the missing link to create a 100% biobased coating and reduce the CO2-footprint of coatings significantly. Very importantly, bio-aromatic 3MPA results in better performing coatings. Early customer validation shows hardness and UV-stability can be improved. It is the unique combination of unmatched performance and sustainability which makes bio-aromatic 3MPA the Renewable Element. 3MPA can only made via biobased feedstock.

For more information please contact our CCO Monique Wekking I + 31 6 468 473 58 I Monique.wekking@relement.eu

BAroC: Bio-Aromatic Conceptual Factory

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 07:07:56 GMT

BAroC

Bio-Aromatic Conceptual Factory

Relement started in May 2021 with the creation of a conceptual process design of the best commercial production route to bio-aromatics MPA and HMA. This conceptual design will be made in a consortium with TNO, Stichting Circulair Biobased Delta and Catalok, funded by Topsector Energiesubsidie from the Dutch Ministery of Economic Affairs.

This concept of process design will provide information for the business case and should strengthen confidence among the customers of bio-aromatics and lead to purchasing intentions for bio-aromatics MPA and HMA. The conceptual design is an important Milestone for Relement and should enable to attract further investment for a follow-up to a first commercial functional bio-aromatic plant from 2025. When the bio-aromatics plant is realized, a large energy and CO2 saving is expected, a raw materials transition and an economic value that will greatly strengthen biobased chemistry in the Netherlands.

BAroC partners:

BAroC subcontractor:

Project Activities

In this BAroC project, the partners will go through in detail the status of the synthesis of functional bio-aromatics MPA and HMA from bio-based furfural. Together with engineerings company Transition Hero (as subcontractor of Relement), a technoeconomic and LCA analysis, based on mass- and energy balance and a simplified process description, will determine the selection of the best process route. The most critical process steps and missing information or critical process improvements are completed with literature research, possibly additional small-scale experiments and a recommendation for improvement. On this basis, the Concept Process Design for a first production plant for MPA and HMA is designed. BAroC will also realize an initial elaboration for REACH, CLD.

Result

The BAroC project delivers an optimized conceptual process design of a first commercial factory for bio-aromatics MPA and HMA, including a cost estimate for CAPEX and OPEX and CO2 intensity and a sensitivity analysis containing recommendations for further research into the realization of the commercial plant. Furthermore, attention is given to a step-by-step plan of the further commercialization process of bio-aromatics MPA and HMA, which can be applied in coatings and lubricants, among other things.

About Bio-aromatics

More than 40% of all necessary chemical building blocks are aromatics, so far they can only be made from fossil raw material. The BaroC project is relevant because bio-aromatics are used in high-quality products that are difficult to recycle such as coatings and lubricants; a logical application of biobased.

Bio-aromatic technology development, based on furfural, is initially developed by TNO in Biorizon Shared Research Centre. On a kilogram scale, it has been confirmed that bio-aromatics MPA and HMA improve the properties of coatings and lubricant. Because of that, TNO established spin-off company Relement that will further commercialise these bio-aromatics.

About Relement

Relement is a spin-off of TNO established in 2020 as a result of technology development in Biorizon Shared Research Centre. Relement converts biomass residues into high-quality chemical ingredients; bio aromatics. Aromatics are essential raw materials for coatings, adhesives, insulating foam and other high-quality applications. Aromatics are important chemical building blocks, needed today and in the future which can only be produced from fossil feedstock and are thus not sustainable.

Relement aims to replace current fossil aromatics with special bio-aromatics. These special bio-aromatics are not only much more durable, but above all of better quality: for example, paint becomes more resistant to sunlight and insulating foam becomes stronger. Relement is a company for the development, production and marketing of bio-aromatics.

If you want to know more about this Milestone or bio-aromatic technology implementation, please contact us

This project is made possible by a financial contribution from Topsector Energiesubsidie from the Dutch Ministery of Economic Affairs.

A step forward towards a more sustainable chemical industry: bio-aromatics company Relement secures first capital investment.

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 06:54:07 GMT

Today, Relement BV has raised their first capital investment from the TTT Smart Industries Fund that is managed by Innovation Industries, a leading deep-tech Venture Capital fund. Relement BV is a spin-off from Dutch Research and Development institute TNO. The company is uniquely positioned as a manufacturer of ingredients for coatings and materials, for which there is no renewable alternative today. The investment will enable Relement to contract partners for scaling up sample production for customers and strengthen technological development. An important milestone in the realisation of a more sustainable chemical industry.

“Relement is very happy with the support from Innovation Industries. This is an important step in making the critical change towards a more sustainable chemical industry. Innovation Industries is known for investing in knowledge-intensive and deeptech companies. Relement is such type of company and welcomes visionary investors who understand the large opportunities that the chemicals market has to offer” comments Roger Blokland, CEO of Relement. “Relement is managed by a strong team of founders, has access to disruptive technology and impactful customers. This first investment will enable Relement to reach important milestones towards the realisation of greener chemicals, coatings and materials industry.”

Innovation Industries considers this impact investment as a way to support Relement in its journey to make the chemical industry more sustainable. “Relement has proven that it is possible to use inedible biomass instead of a fossil feedstock while making a product that has superior quality and durability. We have invested with our Technology Transfer Fund and are aware that our support is only a modest step towards a more sustainable world. We hope that our investment encourages other investors to support Relement and to join this round.” – according Harm de Vries, partner at the fund.

About TTT Smart Industries and Innovation Industries

The Smart Industries Thematic Technology Transfer (TTT) consortium is a cooperative alliance between the Technology Transfer Offices of TNO, the four Dutch technical universities and Innovation Industries. It aims to bring promising early-stage tech spin-offs to the next level. The Smart Industries TTT Fund is managed by Innovation Industries. Please visit www. tech-transfer.nl for more information.

Innovation Industries is a leading Netherlands-based venture capital firm focused on high tech, med tech and agri-food tech companies. Next to financial support, Innovation Industries provides operational and strategic support in order to optimally position portfolio companies for success. Innovation Industries has over € 250 million under management and invests across all growth and development stages. For more information, please visit: www.innovationindustries.com

About Relement BV

Relement BV is a spin-off from Dutch Research and Development institute TNO. The technology, to which Relement has an exclusive world-wide license, has been developed by TNO within the shared research centre Biorizon. Relement can convert inedible biomass residues into high-quality chemical ingredients called bio aromatics. Today’s aromatics can only be produced from fossil feedstock and are not sustainable. Relement bio-aromatics are the missing link to obtain fully renewable products.

Relement is a company for the development, production, and marketing of bio-aromatics. Bio-aromatics are essential raw materials for coatings, adhesives, insulating foam and other high-quality applications. These special bio-aromatics are not only much more sustainable, but they also provide better performance: for example, improved hardness of paint and stronger insulating foam. It is Relement’s mission is to change the world by creating a fossil free chemical industry.

Relement in spotlight during launch agenda for green chemistry, new economy at EnZuid

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 09:23:30 GMT

"It's possible! Transforming into a fossil-free industry by 2050. This option is more relevant than ever. Within "Green chem istry, new economy", the large chemical companies, SMEs, start-ups, financial institutions and governments are taking this seriously. Starting from the three chemical clusters in the south of the Netherlands, with parties from the rest of the Netherlands and across borders. Not by managing the probable, but by guiding the possible. We are working on upscaling innovations, which are preferably first demonstrated at the industrial complexes in Zeeuws-Vlaanderen, Moerdijk and Geleen and then also exported to the world market. ”

Arnold Stokking, Managing Director Brightsite and driver of "Green chemistry, new economy"

The action agenda "Green chemistry, new economy" focuses on the accelerated greening of the process industry; starting in the south of the Netherlands. The ambition is to replace substantial quantities of crude oil by recycled and biobased raw materials by 2025, in addition to the use of green electricity-based processes. By upscaling innovations, the industry contribute to the climate goals and new employment.One of the nine upscaling innovations mentioned in the this action agenda are the bio-aromatics from Relement. For that reason Roger Blokland, CEO at Relement has been interviewed to share his vision

Interview Roger Blokland for EnZuid / Groenechemie.nl

Relement, enormous potential of functional bio-aromatics

“Relement, a spin-off from TNO, created from the Biorizon shared research center, stands for 'Renewable Element', says Roger Blokland, Founder and Managing Director of Relement BV. Aromatics are the building blocks for the chemical industry. 40% of the chemical materials are aromatics. But it is also a bottleneck for the chemical industry, because aromatics are not really biobased yet. We are changing this and making bio-aromatics from biomass residues. Consider, for example, sugar beet pulp and corn on the cob that are left behind when you remove the grains. This hemicellulose is the basis of our bio-aromatics. These are valuable compounds that ensure the strength of materials such as paint, insulation materials and special lubricants, such as those used in industrial ovens. ”

Phase

“We do a lot of tests with customers. For the next phase of upscaling in the coating market, we have formed a project consortium with raw material suppliers, paint manufacturers and users in the south of the Netherlands. We have previously run a number of Proof of Concept projects in collaboration with Biorizon.

Our first launching customers come from the coating market, followed by the lubricants. The first results are satisfying. Our customers are very positive, may of them see our bio-aromatics performing better than currently used fossil products. What exactly? For example, the coating is harder, but also more UV-stable. While the lubricants last longer. ”

Upscaling of product

“We currently still work on a limited, specialty chemistry scale. But bio-aromatics have enormous potential, involving hundreds of billions of euros. We are starting with a "specific obtainable market that still accounts for 2.5 billion euros." Unfortunately, "more expensive" and "more sustainable" do not always go together. We must therefore move towards a scale that will lower the price. Only when sustainable products have a good price, offer a better performance and are also sustainable, will companies join in. And that is exactly what Relement aims for. ”

Chain formation, financing and policy?

“Perhaps what bother us the most: the lack of legislation. Unlike other sectors, the chemical industry does not yet have a legal framework for sustainability. The expectation is that this will now change.

Financing, and in particular seed money for the first phase, is also very difficult. Why? We are aiming for the transition of chemicals production which requires a long lead time. And that is less attractive for capital funds. They prefer a return of investment within a few years. There is interest, but structuring the financing funds does not always allow for this.

In addition, the price is an obstacle. As long as fossil products are very cheap, the chemical industry will not always change towards sustainable products. The oil industry has also been optimized over decades to such an extent that it is hardly possible to compete against it by starting companies with sustainable technology.

Solutions and contribution to Action Agenda "Green chemistry, new economy"

“Legislation requiring sustainability in terms of sustainability requirements would accelerate the transition enormously. In addition, the financing issue: seed money for the 1st phase. Parties such as Invest-NL are working to increase the availability of seed capital in Deep Tech, seed money is really necessary for sustainable start-ups in green chemistry.

Regarding chain formation: we are in contact with several companies. These represent complete valuechain, for example, bio-refineries as raw material suppliers and coating manufacturers as buyers. Entrepreneurs in sustainable chemistry can help and stimulate each other enormously. A network is important.

A very good analysis has been done for the Action Agenda, it will certainly help! I am also very pleased that it provides insight into the scope of green chemistry.

Whether you are talking about your mobile phone, your keyboard or desktop: there are aromatics in everything. But nobody knows!

What we see is that everyone is of good will. We all want to move towards a new and more sustainable chemical industry. Relement is eager to contribute to this necessary transition. ”

Read more (Dutch) here on groenechemie.nl

Relement settles on Green Chemistry Campus

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 14:31:39 GMT

TNO's Biorizon spin-off Relement settles on the Green Chemistry Campus. The company will produce and sell bio-aromatics on a commercial scale for use in lubricants and coatings, among other things. Nowdays aromatics are made from fossil feedstock and the production of these chemical building blocks has a negative impact on the climate. Relement's bio-aromatics are a qualitatively better and more sustainable alternative to fossil aromatics in existing products. In this way, Relement contributes to a green chemical industry and better products.

“The Green Chemistry Campus is a logical location for us,” says Relement CEO Roger Blokland. “Our team works closely with TNO, which has advanced equipment in the Campus demo facility to produce samples of bio-aromatics. In addition, the Campus offers everything we need: laboratories, offices, experts and a community of like-minded entrepreneurs who want to help each other. ”

“The Campus has been home to Biorizon since 2013,” says Green Chemistry Campus director Connie Paasse. “Where better than on Campus could Biorizon's first spin-off land? Relement is a great addition to our community. I wish Roger and his team the best of luck!”

Bio-aromatics: sustainable alternative for the chemical industry

Relement stems from the work that TNO does within Shared Research Center Biorizon. Biorizon, an initiative of TNO and VITO, has been working on the Campus on technologies for the production of functional bio-aromatics since 2013. Aromatics are essential building blocks for the chemical industry: no less than 40% of all chemicals are aromatics. They add functionality to products such as plastics, paints, coatings and lubricants, including scratch resistance, stability and UV resistance.

Relement markets bio-aromatics

Last summer Relement B.V. was established to produce and sell the bio-aromatics developed within the TNO part of Biorizon on a commercial basis. The name Relement refers to "the renewable element": the renewable nature of the essential element aromatics. Relement uses renewable biomass residual flows as a raw material instead of petrochemical raw materials. The market size for high-quality aromatics is € 2.5 billion, so the potential to green these so far petrochemical building blocks is enormous. In time, Relement wants to build commercial factories for various premium bio-aromatics and thus contribute to a greener chemical industry.

Substantial CO2 reduction & superior properties

One of the first bio-aromatics to be launched by Relement is an alternative to fossil phthalic anhydride that is used in alkyd paint, among other things. For the first time, 100% biobased alkyd paint can be made with Relement's bio-aromatics. This paint not only lasts longer due to better scratch resistance and UV resistance, it is also considerably more durable, as shown last month from a study by CE Delft commissioned by Circular Biobased Delta. By replacing petrochemical phthalic anhydride by biobased 3-methylphtalic anhydride, Relement can achieve a CO2 reduction of 3.1 kg CO2-eq per kilogram from 2027. realize. In total, this means an annual CO2 reduction of 94 kt CO2-eq.

Relement

Relement converts biomass residues into high-quality bio-aromatics. These functional bio-aromatics are not only much more durable, but also of better quality: for example, paint becomes more resistant to sunlight and insulating foam becomes stronger. For more information, please contact CEO Roger Blokland via roger.blokland@relement.eu or +31 (0) 6 11 27 60 55.

Monique Wekking and Stefano Iannacone join management Relement

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 14:33:59 GMT

On March 1, 2021, Monique Wekking (CCO) and Stefano Iannacone (CTO) have joined the management of Relement as co-founders. With this expansion of the management team, the innovative Dutch chemical company, which was presented to State Secretary Mona Keijzer last December as the 25th startup from TNO's Tech Transfer program, is ready for further growth and to make the next step in its ambition to work on a more sustainable chemistry.

Relement develops and produces bio-based chemical aromatics. Aromatics provide essential value-adding properties in, for example, paint or lubricants. In paint they provide hardness, gloss or UV stability and in lubricants they are used for improving stability, especially at higher temperatures. Bio-based aromatics are produced from biomass feedstock instead of fossil resources, which is currently the base for all aromatics. Relement's bio-aromatics provide better properties in an end product than can be achieved with fossil feedstock-based aromatics. Bio-aromatics therefore add double value.

Wekking comes over from TNO, where she was a Program Manager for the Biorizon program. With her experience in setting up and expanding customer relationships, she will further shape the commercial side of Relement. “My heart is with chemistry and I love connecting people, companies and knowledge to create new collaborations and innovative products. I would like to clarify the potential of Relement’s bio-aromatics.

Iannacone has broad experience in developing and expanding new technologies, both in-house development and in close collaboration with partners. “It is great to be able to develop chemical components that can change the world: they not only provide better quality products, they are also more sustainable. I am convinced that with this bio-aromatic technology we have an very important positive and big impact on the industry. ” Thus Iannacone.

CEO Roger Blokland is pleased with the addition of the management team. “With Iannacone's technical experience and Wekking's commercial focus, we can follow up on the great interest in our bio-aromatics. And we will increase Relement's contribution to a greener, future-proof chemical industry and a more sustainable world. ”

New elegant way for more efficient biomass conversion

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 12:08:35 GMT

Utrecht chemistry researchers develop elegant trick for more efficient biomass conversion

Chemistry researchers at Utrecht University have found a much more efficient way of converting biomass into so-called bio-aromatics. Previously, these useful chemical building blocks could only be made out of sugars from wood via an inefficient detour, resulting in many unwanted by-products. Under supervision of Prof. Pieter Bruijnincx, Master’s student Bart Fölker developed a clever trick that no longer requires this detour: by linking two chemical reactions in a ‘tandem conversion’, the raw material is now converted more directly and efficiently into the desired end product. The results were published in the scientific journal Angewandte Chemie.

In his graduation project, Fölker and his supervisor Chris Lancefield studied the Diels-Adler reaction, an important step and a bottleneck in the conversion of such sugars into bio-aromatics.

“The semi-finished products that are readily made from wood sugars cannot be easily seduced to engage into a Diels-Adler reaction,” says lead researcher Prof. Pieter Bruijnincx. Not only are these products not very reactive, but if they do react at all, they often produce various undesirable by-products: in this case, three out of four reaction products were unwanted.

Yahtzee

In the newly found method, the one desired product is extracted from the reaction, after which the others are converted back into the raw material. This process is repeated until the entire raw material is converted into the desired product.

The method can be compared to a game of yahtzee with an unlimited number of turns. After each roll, you set aside the dice that show sixes – the desired end product – and roll the rest of the dice again. By repeating this often enough, you eventually end up with only sixes.

Patent and spin-off

In this project, the researchers collaborated with TNO, which was so enthusiastic about the outcome that they applied for a patent together with Utrecht University and are now working on further developing and upscaling this process. The patent, which has now been granted, is included in the technology portfolio of the recently established TNO spin-off Relement.

Biomass as a circular raw material

Although biomass is often referred to as an energy source, it is actually better suited as a renewable raw material for high-value material applications. Biomass can replace fossil raw materials in the production of plastics, paints and coatings, composites, lubricants and consumer care products, for instance. A major challenge in this process is finding efficient ways of converting biomass. Utrecht researchers have been working on this challenge for a number of years now in order to contribute to closing the carbon chain. This is also one of the spearheads of the Circular Economy hub.

Original posted by Utrecht University, read the here >>

Relement officially released as 25th spin-off company of TNO in presence of the EZK state secretary

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 09:32:37 GMT

TNO’s 25th spin-off company was announced during a digital working visit by Mona Keijzer, State Secretary for the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy (EZK). This company, Relement, creates chemical building blocks based on bio-residuals instead of oil, thereby helping to make the chemical industry more sustainable.

Relement originated in the Tech Transfer programme that was set up more than three years ago to bring TNO’s knowledge to the market and thus realise societal impact. It was fitting that the State Secretary who is responsible for innovation and entrepreneurship (among other things) be involved in this important milestone.

Relement uses TNO knowledge to create new chemical ingredients based on bio-residuals instead of oil. These ingredients are of a higher quality than the fossil variants. For example, paint with these ingredients is more resistant to sunlight and insulating foam becomes stronger.

State Secretary Mona Keijzer (EZK): “I congratulate Roger Blokland, Managing Director and Founder of Relement, on this new company based on Dutch knowledge. And, of course, the same goes to TNO for their 25th spin-off. It is enormously important that a smart idea reaches the market quickly via entrepreneurs. This creates jobs and is also good for society – in the case of Relement, by making residual products (which everyone turns their noses up at) usable again. Thanks to institutions such as TNO, innovation can benefit our entire country.”

RELEMENT

Relement is a spin-off of TNO and was established for the development, production and marketing of bio-aromatics developed by TNO within the Biorizon Shared Research Center. Aromatics are essential raw materials for coatings, adhesives, insulating foams and other high-quality applications. 40% of all chemical building blocks consist of aromatics, which can currently only be produced from fossil raw materials. Relement wants to replace the current fossil aromatics with special bio-aromatics which are both much more sustainable and – above all – higher quality.

Roger Blokland, CEO and co-founder of Relement: “It’s fantastic news that Relement has become the ‘silver anniversary’ 25th spin-off of TNO. This helps us to find investors who share our sustainable vision. Paints, adhesives and lubricants are all products that we use every day. Our chemical ingredients are able to make these products not only more sustainable but also much better in terms of quality. I’m convinced that this unique technology will make an important contribution to increased sustainability in the chemical industry.”

TECH TRANSFER

TNO’s mission is to develop innovative knowledge and to apply that knowledge in order to create societal impact. This knowledge leads mainly to application by existing partners of TNO, companies and public authorities. When external capital is required to convert the knowledge into products, TNO opts for an additional method of achieving this: the creation of new companies. TNO therefore began the Tech Transfer programme over three years ago with the aim of getting the knowledge to the market.

Within the programme, this is done by developing business cases, doing market research, connecting entrepreneurs and involving investors. This creates new companies which can use TNO knowledge for employment and economic growth. In addition, these companies contribute to societal challenges such as the energy transition, security and health.

“The Tech Transfer programme makes an excellent contribution to the actual application of TNO’s innovations on the market. This applies to Relement but also to the 24 spin-offs which were previously established – results to be proud of,” says Cis Marring, CFO and a member of the TNO Executive Board.

Article about Relement on AGRO&CHEMISTRY

Wed, 28 Oct 2020 07:36:37 GMT

Relement bv introduces bio-aromatics to the market

Read the articles original publication here

Relement bv was founded in Bergen op Zoom in the quiet of summer this year: the first company to focus on the commercial production and marketing of bio-aromatics developed under the Biorizon programme. Relement was founded by and is a spin-off of TNO, the developer of this specific bio-aromatics technology within the Biorizon programme.

Better properties

Moreover, Relement is not focusing on bulk chemistry, but specifically on speciality bio-aromatics responsible for a special function within the end product. ‘In many cases they are able to create better properties than is otherwise possible with petrochemical aromatics. The fact that they are biobased is a bonus for our customers. This is a far better proposition than if they were only better for the planet.’

Aromatics are indispensable in, for example, paint or lubricants. Due to their rigid chemical structure, they provide for hardness, gloss or UV stability. In lubricants they are used as a liquid base to stabilise lubricants and make them more resistant to higher temperatures.

‘This provides for various benefits. It means that a lubricant or coating has a much longer service life, as a result of which you need less and achieve sustainability in various ways, not only through the product’s greener formulation, but also by reducing consumption.’

Excellent choice

‘Furthermore, this involves the application of products that are difficult to recycle. This is the common denominator of all of our end products: because they are not very easy to recycle, the only option to make them sustainable is to look at their ingredients and properties. This makes biobased an excellent choice.’

In any event, the market in which Relement will be operating is big enough. ‘In comparison to bulk chemistry, the market for speciality aromatics is relatively small, but the added value is high and the global market size nevertheless is a respectable €2.5 billion. It is therefore a very interesting segment in which to introduce speciality biobased chemistry.’

Up until now only samples on a kilogram scale have been supplied to a number of important customers. They have been received with enthusiasm. ‘These kilogram-sized samples have been available for some time now due to the Biorizon programme

Biorizon . This provides Relement with an excellent base. The initial results are very promising.’

The next step is to bring the products to market in a strategic relationship with a toll manufacturer. ‘As soon as we achieve commercial sales, we will continue by designing a commercial plant. Our ultimate dream is to be able to construct a number of commercial plants for our speciality aromatics.’

This article was created in cooperation with Circular Biobased Delta and posted on AGRO&CHEMISTRY on 06/10/2020

Image above: TNO.

ZCORE: Seaweed Residues for Superior Bio-Coatings

Tue, 29 Sep 2020 10:16:58 GMT

In the ZCORE project, 6 partners (among which Relement ) have joined forces to demonstrate that seaweed residues can be utilized for the production of biobased coatings (paints) with superior application properties.

Fast-growing seaweed is used to produce high-value proteins. A by-product is non-edible sugars streams, a potential valuable raw material for the chemical industry. In this project, these sugars will be converted to biobased aromatics which will be tested in coatings applications. By the end of 2022, this will result in 100% biobased alkyd resin coatings that are more durable, cost-effective and sustainable when compared to their fossil-based counterparts. The ZCORE project will positively contribute to CO2 reduction goals and help to strengthen the chemical industry as well as the open innovation network in the south of the Netherlands.

Please take a look at the project animation:

Climate agreement: fast-growing seaweed ideally suited to reduce CO₂

With the Climate Agreement, the Netherlands is committed to a greenhouse gas reduction of 49% in 2030 compared to 1990. For the chemical industry, this means, among other things, that by 2030 the share of biobased raw materials will have to quadruple compared to 2016 (from 4% to 15%). Seaweed is ideally suited for this: with an increase of 30% per day, it is one of the fastest growing plants. Furthermore, because of its cultivation at sea, it does not compete with land-growing biomass. To conclude, seaweed contains, in addition to proteins for food applications, residual sugars and these non-edible sugars can be a valuable raw material for the chemical industry.

40% of all chemicals are aromatic; the greening potential is enormous

The sugars from seaweed residual flows can be converted into bio-aromatics. Of all chemicals produced by the chemical industry, 40% are aromatic in nature. It represents a global annual volume of 122 million tons, worth more than 115 billion euros and has an annual growth of 4-5%. Aromatics are used in plastics, paints, additives such as UV stabilizers and pigments, fibers, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and food ingredients such as vitamins, colorants and flavouring additives. So far, aromatics are extracted from petroleum and this has a negative impact on the climate. That is why finding renewable feedstock is urgent.

Shared Research Center Biorizon: The Way to Aromatics

Biorizon is the most advanced and valued research program in bio-aromatics worldwide. Shared Research Center Biorizon, an initiative of TNO and VITO, has been co-creating technologies for the commercial production of bio-aromatics since 2013 at the Green Chemistry Campus in Bergen op Zoom. Together with industrial partners, Biorizon develops innovative technologies to use residual biomass and recycle streams for the production of bulk and specialty aromatics. The ZCORE project is a good example of this.

More durable and cost-effective coatings with superior properties

In the ZCORE project (from Seaweed to COating REsin applications), seaweed residues are converted into bio-aromatics and these will be tested in coatings, among other things. The coating industry is keen to develop a fully biobased coating in order to respond to the climate objectives as well as market demand. The ZCORE project is specifically working on 100% biobased alkyd resins (paint). So far, a content of 50-60% biobased has been achieved because no bio-aromatics were available on a sufficiently large scale. ZCORE changes this. In addition to doubling the sustainability, ZCORE also brings potential cost reductions because Biorizon has developed a unique shortened route for the production of functionalized bio-aromatics compared to the fossil production route. Finally, the bio-aromatics also bring improved properties including superior wear resistance, gloss and UV resistance.

These three advantages allow this bio-coating to be competitive with fossil-based coatings. With a global coating market of 4 Mton on an annual basis, this means a huge breakthrough in the field of 100% biobased coatings and this will accelerate the realization of a biobased economy.

ZCORE project partners represent entire value chain

The ZCORE project brings together the entire value chain for the valorization of seaweed in bio-aromatics and its application in coatings.

The SME partners Relement and Engineering Chemicals, together with 5 leading coating producers, form an important link to practice with their knowledge of seaweed production and applications of bio-aromatics in industrially relevant applications (such as coatings). The knowledge institutes TNO, Avans and Maastricht University have leading knowledge and technology in the field of biorefining, bio-aromatics production, coating resins and sustainability analyses. In addition to its function as headquarters, the Green Chemistry Campus is also involved in dissemination activities and interaction with SMEs.

Strengthening the biobased economy in the South of the Netherlands

The South Netherlands region has a unique potential for growing seaweed, unlocking the biomass and making it suitable as raw material for the chemical industry via (bio) chemical conversion technology. The region houses a large number of agro and chemical companies and there are strong partnerships between knowledge institutes and industry. The biobased economy is a spearhead in the Regional Innovation Smart Specialization Strategy (RIS3) of the Southern Netherlands, with a focus on green raw materials and green building blocks. The link between the knowledge platforms in the fields of seaweed production and refining (Zeeland), bio-aromatics production (Brabant) and in the fields of coating resins and sustainability (Limburg) within ZCORE results in a broadening and strengthening of the open innovation system.

OPZuid

The ZCORE project is made possible by the European Regional Development Fund and the provinces of Noord-Brabant, Zeeland and Limburg in the context of OPZuid.

Sustainable business cases in the chemical industry

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 06:35:28 GMT

The chemical industry is currently not a

leading example of green innovation

Now that large sums of money are being made available for ‘post Corona’ economic support, many are arguing to link sustainability criteria to economic support , to direct a fundamental change to more sustainable business models. This is good thinking, because to continue to do what we have always done, means continue to practice unsustainable business models. One of my worries is the unconstrained use of fossil fuels and fossil based chemistry.

I especially liked the words from IMF’s Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva “What we do now will not only reshape our economies and societies; it will also reshape humanity’s future on this planet. Coming out of one crisis need not be a prelude to getting into another—a ‘green recovery” is our bridge to a more resilient future”. It is important that we keep prioritizing sustainability, and don't fall back into the old ways. This includes putting a price to carbon emissions, promote green finance and use public support wisely.

The chemical industry is currently not a leading example of green innovation , locked into capital intensive production assets, readily available & low cost fossil feedstock, fierce competition from low cost countries where environmental governance less evolved, who can blame us? The chemical industry still is an important source of direct and indirect emissions world-wide. At the same time the products produced by the chemical industry are essential for daily life and energy conservation, think of insulation foams to conserve heat.

It is true, sustainability and carbon footprint are important drivers for the chemical industry . Awareness within the industry about the impact of raw materials used and the end-of-life emissions of its products is high as is the need to address these emissions urgently. Key players in the industry are well aware that there is no option but to keep heading towards a much more sustainable industry and products. The world will continue to need essential materials and products such as coatings to protect wood and metal, adhesives and materials to manufacture electronics, insulation materials, car dashboards, safety glasses, shoe soles, etc etc.

So where will the required change and innovation come from if the established industry is willing but not always able? A growing landscape of ambitious start-ups are willing to improve and offer more sustainable alternatives. However they have been struggling to achieve significant growth rates. Why? Key to the chemical industry is to look at sustainable business cases and in reality, many improvements in sustainability result in higher cost under the current price structures and mechanisms.

Relement has decided to focus on specialty, renewable chemicals . To offer higher value and performance improvement is our way forward. Not just greener. Our business case is based on product improvement and improved sustainability is a bonus. Wrong priority? I argue that if this is the way to get results and to build a sustainable chemical enterprise.

However I want to call governments to action. Use those ‘Post Corona’ funds to introduce sustainability criteria and more support mechanisms. Create a level playing field between sustainable products and the lower cost fossil feedback based materials. otherwise the blunt economics of 40 USD/barrel oil will dictate what happens, not the good intentions of the many willing start-ups.

In the meantime, we at Relement will focus on sustainable business cases using specialty chemicals. Relement is ready to take its place and offer better solutions, not only for product but also for planet.