Evonik Industries recently announced that a research team led by Matthias Beller, Ph.D., director of the Leibniz Institute for Catalysis at the University of Rostock (LIKAT Rostock), and Robert Franke, Ph.D., of Evonik Performance Materials GmbH, has succeeded in double carbonylating 1,3-butadiene directly to produce adipates (salts of adipic acid).

Isocyanates react with compounds that have active hydrogens. For example, in coating applications, isocyanates are typically reacted with polyols to form polyurethanes, or with primary and secondary amines to form polyureas. Catalysis of the polyol/isocyanate reaction, which is often required to develop sufficient cure response, can be achieved with a variety of compounds.

The transaction includes technologies, patents, trademarks and the transfer of BASF's production plants.

Under the terms of the agreement, the two companies will cooperate to develop processes for bio-based chemicals of interest to Stora Enso.

The acquisition includes technologies, patents, trademarks, and production plants in Pasadena, Texas and Tarragona, Spain.

Silane-modified organic polymers have been around for more than 40 years, and have proliferated in the coatings, adhesives, sealants and elastomers (CASE) industry over the past 20 years.

This company offers the Valikat range of novel catalysts for polyurethane sealants and adhesives, which can reportedly serve as a substitute for mercury and tin catalysts while keeping equivalent performance and cure profile.