Itaconix plc announced the commercial launch of BIO*Asterix, a new line of plant-based building blocks. These products are used in paints, coatings, and adhesives. The company aims to offer safer, more sustainable alternatives to fossil-based monomers.
BIO*Asterix products are derivatives of itaconic acid. They can partially or fully replace acrylates, methacrylates, and styrene in resins and composites. The initial offering includes three products, including a patented new monomer. They target the $2.6 billion market for butyl acrylates in Europe and North America.
The company will sell BIO*Asterix through its ecommerce website. Early customers are expected from North American labs focused on developing greener polymers. The products are designed to meet demand for safer chemical alternatives.
Itaconix developed these derivatives as part of a long-term growth strategy. Previous efforts focused on limited customer applications. The new product launch aims to expand opportunities in the large paints and coatings market.
Dr. Yvon Durant, CTO of Itaconix, said the monomers have safety benefits, plant-based content, and multi-functional properties. They meet the needs of polymer research labs seeking alternatives to traditional chemistries. He expects other researchers will find similar uses in various applications.
John R. Shaw, CEO, emphasized the importance of itaconate derivatives for safety and sustainability. He sees the BIO*Asterix launch and ecommerce as key steps for the company’s growth. Shaw expressed optimism about the future of these products in safer, greener paints and coatings.
This launch marks a significant move for Itaconix toward expanding its product portfolio. The company plans to add more proprietary and non-proprietary products to the BIO*Asterix line in the future.
