Cargill Dow Polymers Introduces Family Of Polymers Made From Renewable Resources
Cargill Dow Polymers and Dow Chemical has introduced a breakthrough line of resins.
NEW YORK — Cargill Dow Polymers LLC (CDP), a 50-50 joint-venture between Cargill Inc. and The Dow Chemical Co., has introduced a breakthrough line of resins. NatureWorks™ PLA polymers are made from annually renewable resources, such as corn, and can be used in a range of fiber, textile and nonwoven-fabric applications. The venture company anticipates that the resin products will also find uses in adhesives, paint, coatings and other products.
The NatureWorks PLA polymers are produced by a proprietary process using natural plant sugar to create a polylactide polymer. Cargill Dow Polymers says the polymers are expected to find use in a number of emerging applications over the next few years, including emulsions, chemical intermediates, packaging and foams. Initially, the process will use sugars derived from corn as the basis for production of the polymers. Eventually, other sources will be used, including wheat, sugar beets and agricultural waste, the company says.