Novozymes and Cargill have collaborated on renewable acrylic acid technology since 2008. Both companies have worked to develop microorganisms that can efficiently convert renewable feedstock into 3-hydroxypropionic acid (3-HP), which is one possible chemical precursor to acrylic acid.

BASF has now joined the collaboration to develop the process for conversion of 3-HP into acrylic acid. BASF is the world´s largest producer of acrylic acid and has substantial capabilities in its production and downstream processing. The company plans initially to use the bio-based acrylic acid to manufacture super-absorbent polymers.

The three companies bring complementary knowledge to the project: Novozymes with industrial enzymes; Cargill with sourcing renewable feedstocks and large-scale fermentation; and BASF with chemical production.

Acrylic acid is a high-volume chemical that feeds into a broad range of products. One of the main applications is in the manufacture of super-absorbent polymers that can soak up large amounts of liquid and are used mainly in baby diapers and other hygiene products. Acrylic acid is also used in adhesive raw materials and coatings. The annual global market volume of acrylic acid is around 4.5 million tons with a value of $11 billion at the end of 2011. The market has been growing at a rate of 4% per year.