Market News
Recent Developments
New product launches
- In January 2021, Arkema announced the launch of a new castor oil-based polyamide 11 resin for 3D printing. The material provides improved durability and chemical resistance. Arkema S.A. is a publicly listed, multi-national manufacturer of specialty materials, headquartered in Colombes, near Paris, France. It has three specialty materials segments; adhesives, advanced materials, and coatings.
- In March 2022, Stepan Company launched its NATSURÄ+Castor-Based Surfactants line. The biosurfactants are suitable for home and personal care applications. Stepan Company is a manufacturer of specialty chemicals headquartered in Northbrook, Illinois. The company was founded in 1932 by Mr. Alfred C. Stepan, Jr., and has approximately 2,000 employees. It is currently run by his grandson, Mr Quinn Stepan, Jr.
- In May 2020, Jayant Agro Organics launched hydrogenated castor oil grades suitable for hot melt adhesives and sealants. The new grades offer high melting point and low viscosity. JAOL Group's vision is to provide end-to-end solutions across the castor-based value chain to its customers. It firmly believes that great solutions are the result of inspiration, hard work, dedication, and team work - collaborative efforts to achieve greater synergy and success.
Acquisition and partnerships
- In September 2022, Emery Oleochemicals acquired Oleon, expanding its castor derivates portfolio. The acquisition strengthened its global position. Emery Oleochemicals is a leading global specialty chemicals manufacturer. It provides formulators and manufacturers with best-in-class renewable solutions recognized for their ability to improve processing efficiencies, deliver outstanding technical performance, and enhance environmental safety. Oleon is a leading producer of oleochemicals since the 1950s, specializing in converting natural fats and oils into a wide range of products. The company is part of Avril, a major agri-food group in France. Oleon's product portfolio includes fatty acids, glycerine, esters, dimers, technical oils, specialty oleochemicals, and biodiesel products. These products are used in various industries such as crop protection, cosmetics, industrial ingredients, lubricants, nutrition, and oilfield sectors.
- In June 2021, Wilmar International partnered with ADM for the production and commercialization of specialty castor derivatives. The partnership enhanced their global castor capabilities. Wilmar International Limited is a Singapore-based food processing and investment holding company with more than 300 subsidiary companies. Founded in 1991, it is one of Asia's leading agribusiness groups alongside the COFCO Group.
- In December 2020, Arkema acquired Fixatti, gaining patented technology to extract ricinoleic acid from castor beans. The acquisition bolstered its bio-based chemicals business.