• Genomatica, a producer of sustainable materials using plant-based fossil fuel alternatives, has partnered with Japanese multinational chemical manufacturer Asahi Kasei to commercialize sustainable nylon 6,6 made from the former’s bio-based hexamethylenediamine (HMDA) chemical.

• According to the partnership, Genomatica will provide its “GENO HMD” process technology to Asahi Kasei to produce sustainable nylon. It will comprise 50% adipic acid and 50% bio-based HMDA compared to conventional nylon 6,6, which uses fossil fuel-based HMDA. The material can be used for applications such as high-temperature automotive parts, electronics, and yarns for airbags. 

• Genomatica will also provide early access to large quantities of its bio-based HMDA to Asahi Kasei to conduct nylon application testing. Asahi Kasei plans to license out the “GENO HND'' process in the future to commercialize nylon 6,6. The partnership is expected to help achieve its goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050.

<ul><li> Analyst QuickTake: This announcement follows Genomatica’s partnership with Covestro in January this year to launch its bio-based HMDA material and process. Genomatica has been taking the partnership route to expand the market presence of its bio-based material. The company partnered with Cargill and Italian bioplastic maker Novamont for its Bio-BDO (butanediol, which is used in plastic) product and has partnerships with European nylon producer Aquafil and Canadian athletic apparel retailer Lululemon for its Bio Nylon product.</ul>