Both GS Caltex and LG Chem has entered a Memorandum of Understanding to expand their endeavours on a joint project targeting 3-Hydroxypropionic acid or 3HP which is an important raw material for eco-friendly biodegradable plastics. The signing ceremony was attended by LG Chem CEO Hak Cheol Shin, GS Caltex’s CEO Heo Seo-hong and R&D teams from both companies.
The MOU follows a Joint Development Agreement or JDA between the two companies of 2021 helping with the construction of 3HP testing plant in July at the GS Caltex Yeosu Plant. The plant is the start of prototype production which is yet to begin in Q124.
3HP is an eco-friendly substance which is manufactured by the microbial fermentation of plant-derived materials. The plastics from 3HP depict great flexibility which is a replacement for varied disposable materials. 3HP can further transform into bio-acrylic acid leveraging it as a next-gen chemical with applications in the range of chemicals such as super absorbent polymers or SAP, adhesives, paints, carbon fibre and coating materials.
In the past, there has been many attempts to manufacture 3HP-related technologies but none have been commercialised till date. Hence, the upcoming companies production of the prototype is forecasted to represent the globe’s first 3HP commercialisation.
Both of the companies have agreed to evaluate the 3HP model together and all businesses keen on engaging in discussions related to areas like exploring the creation of a joint venture and examining biodegradable material projects seeing the various bioplastic market conditions.
“We will persist in leading eco-friendly technologies, enhancing our commitment to achieving a 2050 Net Zero by fortifying our partnership for a sustainable future in the white bio sector”, said Hak Cheol Shin, LG Chem CEO.
LG Chem has also manufactured Poly Lactate 3- Hydroxypropionate or PLH in October 2020. PLH is a new biodegradable material with mechanical properties equivalent to synthetic resins.
Also the firm is focussed on realising its decarbonisaton strategy across its supply chain with tasks like converting to 100% renewable energy, targeting to receive 2050 Net Zero., implementing Life Cycle assessment or LCA and advancing technological development in conversion of carbon dioxide.
GS Caltex and LG Chem’s cooperation is possible by synergizing 3HP fermentation platform technologies of LG Chem together with procedure scale-up and refining technology.
Moreover, the company is focused on realizing its decarbonization strategy across its supply chain, with initiatives such as converting to 100% renewable energy, aiming to achieve a 2050 Net Zero.
