AGC Vinythai’s research project with Professor Mojgan Nejad at Michigan State University (MSU) is moving into its next phase, bringing the possibility of 100% bio-based coatings a little closer. For this second phase, the partners are joined by allnex, a global leader in industrial coatings, resins and additives. The project is expected to run until October 2026.

To increase the bio-based content of coatings and epoxy resins, AGC Vinythai worked with Prof. Nejad to explore the use of lignin as a Bisphenol A substitute for epoxy resin formulations. The results of this initial work were published in January 2021 in the paper "Choosing the right lignin to fully replace Bisphenol A in epoxy resin formulation" in the ChemSusChem Journal.

The second stage of the project started in November 2023 when allnex also came on board. Headquartered in Frankfurt, Germany, allnex is a global leader in specialty polymers for industrial coatings, additives, and composites.

Mr. Masayoshi Namba, business director, AGC Vinythai, explained, “Innovation and sustainability are key values for AGC Vinythai and EPINITY^® is a leading example in our product portfolio. By working with partners, we are continuously improving the sustainability of our products.”

Professor Nejad commented, “We are thrilled to share the exciting collaboration between MSU, AGC Vinythai and allnex to develop a bio-based epoxy coating. By completely replacing Bisphenol A with technical lignins and using bio-based epichlorohydrin from AGC Vinythai, we're paving the way for greener, more sustainable coatings.”

Florian Lunzer, director, strategic research, at allnex, said, “As a leader of industrial coating resins, allnex focusses on innovative chemistry to meet the needs of our customers and advance sustainability. We are pleased to collaborate with MSU and AGC Vinythai to bring lower carbon footprint and Bisphenol A free epoxy solutions to the markets we serve.”

Additional information about AGC Vinythai is available at agcvinythai.com. To learn more about Professor Nejad and her research, visit canr.msu.edu/greenbioproducts. To get additional information about allnex, visit www.allnex.com.