BASF has announced a significant shift towards sustainability by transitioning its (Meth)Acrylate portfolio to bio-based Ethyl Acrylate (EA), starting in Q4 2024. This move reflects BASF's commitment to reducing carbon footprints and supporting customers in achieving their sustainability goals. The bio-based EA, which contains a 14C-traceable bio content of 40% as per DIN EN 16640, offers a substantial ~30% reduction in Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) compared to its fossil-based counterpart.

In addition to the standard bio-based EA, BASF will also offer bio-based Ethyl Acrylate BMB ISCC Plus, which includes ISCC PLUS certified carbon content originating from fossil-based acrylic acid. By applying BASF’s biomass balance (BMB) approach, this variant will provide an even lower carbon footprint. Production of the bio-based EA will take place in Ludwigshafen, using sustainable bioethanol derived exclusively from European sources.

The bio-based EA will serve a wide range of polymer dispersion applications, with a primary focus on the Coatings and Adhesives industries. Dr. Reiner Geier, Senior Vice President of Industrial Petrochemicals Europe at BASF, highlighted that the new product provides a drop-in solution for customers, maintaining identical chemical and technical specifications to the traditional fossil-based EA.

“With bio-based EA, we are not only helping our customers reach their sustainability goals but also setting a clear example of our commitment to sustainability transformation,” said Dr. Geier. “Starting in Q4 2024, we will phase out fossil-based EA and exclusively offer bio-based Ethyl Acrylate moving forward.”