AGC VinyThai collaborates with US uni/Allnex for biobased epoxies

To increase the bio-based content of coatings and epoxy resins, AGC Vinythai worked with Prof. Nejad to explore the use of lignin as a bisphenol A (BPA) substitute for epoxy resin formulations. The results of this initial work were published in January 2021 in the paper ‘Choosing the right lignin to fully replace Bisphenol A in epoxy resin formulation’ in the ChemSusChem Journal ((https://doi.org/10.1002/cssc.202002729).

The second stage of the project started in November 2023 when Allnex also came on board. Allnex specialises in specialty polymers for industrial coatings, additives and composites, and is headquartered in Frankfurt, Germany.

Masayoshi Namba, Business Director, AGC Vinythai said, “Innovation and sustainability are key values for AGC Vinythai and Epinity is a leading example in our product portfolio. By working with partners, we are continuously improving the sustainability of our products.” Epinity is a bio-based Epichlorohydrin (ECH) mainly used as a precursor to epoxy resins.

Professor Mojgan Nejad from Michigan State University said, “We are thrilled to share the exciting collaboration between MSU, AGC Vinythai and Allnex to develop a bio-based epoxy coating. By completely replacing Bisphenol A with technical lignins and using bio-based epichlorohydrin from AGC Vinythai, we're paving the way for greener, more sustainable coatings.”

Florian Lunzer, Director, Strategic Research, allnex said, “As a leader of industrial coating resins, Allnex focusses on innovative chemistry to meet the needs of our customers and advance sustainability. We are pleased to collaborate with MSU and AGC Vinythai to bring lower carbon footprint and Bisphenol A free epoxy solutions to the markets we serve.”

The project is expected to run until October 2026.

AGC Vinythai Public Company Limited (AGC Vinythai) was established following the successful integration between AGC Chemicals (Thailand) Company Limited and Vinythai Public Company Limited.