Borregaard to increase capacity of its Ice Bear speciality cellulose

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As I mentioned in some previous post, Borregaard facility in Sarpsborg is a clear example of forest integrated biorefinery. It offers a comprehensive portfolio of bioproducts (lignin-based products, specialty cellulose, 2G bioethanol, vanillin and other fine chemicals) with a wide range of applications for different sectors (construction, agriculture, food and beverages, transportation and pharmaceutical).

The Norwegian company is increasing specialisation through the market introduction of new products as Exilva microfibrillar cellulose, Sensefi advanced texture systems and Ice Bear speciality cellulose. With reference to the last one, Borregaard have just announced an investment of NOK 115 million (over 12.7 M€) to increase its production capacity at Sarpsborg (see press release). This investment will be finalised in the second half of 2018 and will bring Ice Bear capacity to approximately 60,000 tons. The ramp-up of the Ice Bear production will be based on market demand. The volume potential for Borregaard is estimated to be around 20,000-30,000 tons per year by end of 2018.

Figure 1. Borregaard facility in Sarpsborg (extracted from Borregaard web page)

The Ice Bear project is Borregaard's main initiative to drive further its strategy of targeting “niches within the niches” as well as improved offering to existing markets within speciality cellulose. Ice Bear is a high alpha cellulose for high end performance products. The initial Ice Bear investment has already proven that the technology can deliver a world class quality product into segments with the strictest requirements. The new investment will enable Borregaard to develop a more optimal production process in addition to increase its capacity.

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