DuPont completes the expansion of the facility that produces its Sorona biopolymer in North Carolina
Type of post: NEWS IN BRIEF.
DuPont
Industrial Biosciences produces its partly biobased Sorona® polymer at a manufacturing facility in
Kinston (North Carolina, USA). This material is made from 37% renewable
plant-based ingredients. Under this trade name, we can find the polytrimethylene
terephthalate (PTT): a co-polymer of 1,3-propanediol (obtained by fermentation
in the case of Sorona) and terephthalic acid (petroleum-derived in the case of
Sorona). According to DuPont, as compared to a polymer like nylon 6, Sorona production
needs 30% less energy and releases 63% fewer greenhouse gas emissions. Fibers
made with Sorona are claimed to be both soft and extremely stain resistant,
while exhibiting high strength and stiffness.
Figure 1. Sorona® polymer value chain (extracted
from DuPont website)
DuPont Industrial Biosciences has recently completed
the expansion of the production plant, increasing the capacity to produce
Sorona by 25% (see press
release, 6/9/2018). The investment is reflective of the growing demand for this
biopolymer throughout the carpet and apparel markets and an emerging global
focus on building the circular economy. The company employs more than 90
workers in Kinston and, with the startup of the new line, four additional
employees also are being recruited.
